Starter Company Plus Grant

Overview of the Starter Company Plus Grant program:

The Starter Company Plus program is designed to support Ontario-based entrepreneurs looking to start, expand, or purchase a small business. The program offers a combination of financial support, mentorship, and business training, helping participants to develop essential skills and knowledge to successfully grow their businesses. Whether you are launching a new venture or expanding an existing one, this program provides the tools and guidance needed to navigate the early stages of business development.

Benefits of the Starter Company Plus Grant program:

• Grant Funding: Eligible participants can receive a grant of up to $5,000 to help start, grow, or purchase a business.
• Business Training: Access to valuable training on topics such as business planning, marketing, financial management, and sales strategies.
• Mentorship: Guidance and support from experienced business advisors and mentors to help refine your business strategy and ensure long-term success.
• Networking Opportunities: Opportunities to connect with other
• Entrepreneurs, local business leaders, and potential customers or partners.
• Business Plan Development: Assistance in creating a robust business plan, which is crucial for securing additional funding and ensuring sustainable growth.

Eligibility criteria of the Starter Company Plus Grant program:

• Must be a registered business at the time of application (Sole Proprietor, Partnership or Corporation) and this business registration documentation (Master Business Licence or Articles of Incorporation) must show a Toronto address,
• Must have a commercial business bank account at the time of application which corresponds with Business Registration documentation,
• Must have been in operation for minimum 6 months and up to 10 years and be able to demonstrate financial activity statements for this period,
• Must have majority ownership and the ability to demonstrate proof of ownership and/or shareholder agreement,
• Must be located in Toronto with ability to demonstrate proof of physical address,
• Must not be a past recipient of the Retail Accelerator Program and any stream of the Starter Company Plus Grant or other funding from a Small Business Enterprise Centre within Ontario,
• Businesses that require certification and/or license must be current at the time of application,
• Businesses that operate year-round i.e. not seasonal businesses) with consistent revenues month over month,
• Must be able to commit to in-person and/or virtual entrepreneurship training,
• Must have already invested 25 per cent of the grant amount ($1,250) into the business at the time of application (cash, marketing efforts, equipment, commercial rent or other legitimate startup expens