A female hair dresser is working on a clients hair. The copy on the graphic reads, “this program is ideal for enterprising people over 18 years of age who want to start, grow, or buy a business.”

Applications for Starter Company Plus are now closed and will reopen in 2025. 

Starter Company Plus supports enterprising people over 18 years of age who want to start, grow, or buy a small business. The program provides hands-on business coaching and training, as well as mentoring from local business leaders who can help make your business a reality.

The program encompasses 10 bi-weekly sessions and supports entrepreneurs with:

  • Assistance with the development of a business plan
  • Opportunities to participate in free training, coaching, mentoring, and networking opportunities
  • Ongoing support from a qualified business advisor
  • Opportunity to apply for a grant of up to $5,000 upon successful completion of the program

Program open for application

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the eligibility criteria?

To apply for the Starter Company Plus program, you need to be:

  • at least 18 years of age at the time of application
  • proposing a new company, expansion of an existing company, or buying a business in Ontario
  • not be a franchise
  • not attending school or returning to school
  • a resident of Ontario
  • a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
  • not enrolled in other provincial employment or self-employment related programs that include or do not include financial assistance
  • not enrolled concurrently in any self-employment or entrepreneurship training/financing programs offered by government funded organizations
  • not a past participant of Starter Company Plus
  • prepared to commit to a minimum 35 hours per week running the business
  • prepared to attend all required training and mentorship meetings
How do I apply?
  1. Complete and submit a Starter Company application outlining information about you and your business through the online form. Your application package must include:
    • Completed application form
    • Copy of professional license or designation upon request (if applicable)
  2. Attend an intake interview. If your business concept demonstrates a viable opportunity, you will be invited to attend an interview. If accepted into the program, you can begin the journey of turning your business idea into reality.

If you require a paper copy of the application, please email us.

How do I receive a grant?

All applicants will be required to complete a thorough training program that will cover information on all aspects of running a business.  As the applicant proceeds through the training, they will be provided with information required to fully develop their business plan.  Once the training and business plan have been completed, applicants then submit their business plan to be considered for an opportunity to present their business to an external Grant Committee, where they may receive up to $5,000 to support their business.

Can I apply more than once for the program?
Only one grant application per business will be considered. Copy of professional license or designation (if applicable) may be requested 

How do I know if I’m accepted into the program?

If your application seems viable, we will contact you and invite you to an interview.