Skip to main content

Discover more by connecting with our team. Book a Meeting

Starter Company Plus Program

A training and mentorship program that gives you – the entrepreneur – the resources, knowledge, and guidance for starting or expanding a business in Bruce County.

Starter Company Plus Program

Starting a business can be daunting. You’ve already completed some essential steps in getting started. But what’s next? How do you ensure your business success in the beginning, and plan for a prosperous future?

We are here to help you navigate the process and build a strong foundation for your business. Starter Company Plus is a business development program that helps you develop the skills you need to run your business with confidence and create a solid plan for your business to reduce the risk.

When enrolled in the Starter Company Plus Program, you’ll work one on one with a business advisor and mentor every step of the way. Our workshops and training sessions provide you with the resources, knowledge and tools you need, from business fundamentals, marketing and market research, and finances to operations and human resources.

Knowledge share and learn from like-minded people while networking with other entrepreneurs in Bruce County. What’s more, you’ll have the opportunity to apply for and receive a $5,000 grant to put towards your business start up costs!

Eligibility

Eligible participants must be:
  • 18 years or older at the time of application
  • A Canadian Citizen or permanent resident
  • A resident of Ontario
  • Not currently enrolled in other provincial employment or self-employment related programs
  • Not currently enrolled in any self employment or entrepreneurship training / finance programs offered by government funded organizations
  • Not currently attending school full time
  • Able to provide a minimum personal investment of $1,250 (cash or in kind) toward the business
  • Able to operate the business a minimum of 35 hours per week
  • Not in receipt of Starter Company Plus funding in the past
Eligible businesses must be:
  • Operating in Bruce County
  • Operating legally under government regulations and municipal by-laws
  • A sole proprietorship, or corporation where the applicant is the majority owner
  • A partnership where the applicant is the majority owner. If the partnership is 50/50, only one owner may apply
  • Operating at arm’s length from an existing family business venture
Ineligible businesses include:
  • Franchises, distributorship, and commissioned sales businesses
  • Not-for-profit, co-operatives, or charities
  • Multi-level marketing businesses
  • One-time events such as a music festival, fundraiser, or sporting competition

The Application Process

Enrollment for the 2025-26 Starter Company Plus program began August 25th. To enroll in the program, all participants were required to attend a mandatory information session. All of these sessions have now been complete for this year’s sign-up period.

If you attended an information session and wish to participate in the program this year, please confirm interest by reaching out to the program coordinator, Jenelle Bannon, by end of day Monday, September 15th. The remainder of the program will progress as follows:

  1. Complete the mandatory training and mentorship components of the program. Completion of training and mentorship is required to be eligible to apply for the grant.
  2. Confirm eligibility and complete the Grant Application form for a chance to receive a $5,000 business grant.

Follow our Facebook, Instagram and newsletter for updates.

*Note: Given the program is competitive in nature, not all participants will receive the grant, but will benefit from taking part in the training and mentorship.