Starter Company Plus Program - Markham

The Starter Company Plus Program provides funding and training to Ontario residents looking to start, expand, or buy a small business in Markham, offering up to $5,000 in grant support plus professional business training and mentorship.

City of Markham

Overview of the Starter Company Plus Program - Markham program:

The Starter Company Plus program, managed by the Markham Small Business Centre and funded by the Ontario Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, is designed to support aspiring entrepreneurs and early-stage business owners. It is tailored to individuals aged 18 and older who are not currently attending school and who are launching or expanding a small business in Markham. The program combines essential financial support with comprehensive business training and one-on-one mentoring. The initiative aims to equip participants with the skills and resources necessary to build sustainable businesses. Selected applicants receive free access to expert-led business development workshops, guidance on business planning and marketing, and the opportunity to compete for a grant of up to $5,000. Successful candidates will be chosen based on their business viability, the strength of their business plan, and their commitment to the program. The initiative also fosters local economic development by supporting diverse entrepreneurs across Markham’s business ecosystem.

Benefits of the Starter Company Plus Program - Markham program:

Up to $5,000 in grant funding
Access to business training workshops
One-on-one mentoring with experienced business advisors
Assistance with developing a complete business plan
Networking opportunities with local business leaders and peers
Exposure through City of Markham business initiatives

Eligibility criteria of the Starter Company Plus Program - Markham program:

To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Be 18 years or older
Not currently enrolled in school full-time or part-time
Be a resident of Ontario and legally permitted to work in Canada
Be starting, expanding, or purchasing a small business in Markham
Be able to commit to full-time entrepreneurship
The business must be a sole proprietorship or corporation operating at arms length from other businesses
Franchises, commissioned sales, multi-level marketing, and non-profits are not eligible
Participants must complete training and submit a viable business plan to receive funding