Applications open for Starter Company Plus Program (Canada)

This program provides extensive support through personalized mentorship, advanced business training, and access to funding opportunities. Participants can benefit from expert guidance, enhance their business acumen, and obtain the resources needed to successfully grow or acquire a business within the dynamic Brampton community. Whether you are looking to take your current business to the next level or acquire a new venture, the Starter Company Plus Program offers the essential tools and support to help you achieve your business objectives.

As part of this initiative, they are dedicating a minimum of 8 out of the 30 available grants to support creative entrepreneurs. This is a significant step toward promoting innovation and creativity within Brampton, providing vital resources and opportunities for artists and creative businesses to thrive.

Benefits

• ​Comprehensive Business Training – Gain essential knowledge on topics like business planning, marketing strategies, financial management, and legal considerations through structured workshops and seminars.
• ​One-on-One Mentorship – Receive personalized guidance from experienced business mentors who can provide insight and advice tailored to your specific business needs and challenges.
• ​Networking Opportunities – Connect with other entrepreneurs, through networking events and workshops, enhancing your business visibility and potential collaborations.
• Marketing and Promotion Support – Assistance in developing effective marketing strategies and materials to increase brand awareness and customer reach.
• Technology Support – Guidance on adopting new technologies and digital tools that can improve business operations and customer engagement.
• Access to Market Research – Resources and support in conducting market research to better understand your target customers and competitive landscape.
• Eligibility for Further Financing – Completion of the program may improve eligibility for further financing from banks and other financial institutions.
• Ongoing Support Post-Program – Continued access to certain resources and mentorship even after the program concludes to ensure long-term success.
• Priority Consideration for Future Opportunities – Participants may receive priority consideration for other local business opportunities and programs.
• Visibility in Community – Opportunities for local media exposure and participation in community events, increasing public awareness of your business.

Funding Information 

• Eligibility to apply for grants up to $5,000, providing critical financial support for business expansion or acquisition.

Priority Consideration

• Priority is given to Brampton-based entrepreneurs starting or expanding main street businesses (e.g., retail, bars, restaurants, cafes) and professionals in the creative industries. BEC may also determine that a particular business is inappropriate for the program.

Eligibility Criteria 

• To participate in the Starter Company Plus Program in Brampton, applicants must meet all the following criteria:
  • Resident of Ontario
  • 18 years or older at the time of application
  • Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada
  • Not attending school full-time nor planning to return to school
  • Proposing to expand an existing business or buy a business in Brampton or Caledon
  • Commit a minimum of 35 hours a week to running a full-time business
  • Attend mandatory training and mentorship meetings
  • Not enrolled in other provincial employment or self-employment-related programs
  • Not concurrently enrolled in any other government-funded self-employment or entrepreneurship training/financing programs
  • Not have received a Starter Company Program or Starter Company Plus Program grant in the past
  • If applying as a business partner, confirm a minimum of 51% ownership
  • Provide proof of a 25% contribution of the potential program grant (up to $1250), in cash or in-kind contributions as approved by BEC
• Eligible businesses must:
  • Be an independent venture based in Brampton or Caledon.
  • Not rely on commissioned sales.
  • Be legally registered in Ontario.
  • Not be a franchise.
  • Operate at arm’s length from family businesses.
  • Operate full-time (no part-time or seasonal businesses).
  • Maintain its own books and records.
  • Have a Master Business License or Articles of Incorporation, or register business.
  • Maintain a separate bank account.
  • Comply with all government rules, regulations, and by-laws.
  • Demonstrate a viable and sales-ready business plan at the time of funding.

For more information, visit BEC.