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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

Applications for the 2026-27 Starter Company Plus program will open this fall. Stay tuned for details and important deadlines.

Those interested in participating will be asked to follow these steps:

  1. Attend an information session to learn about the program and determine whether it is a good fit for your business.
  2. Confirm your interest with the program coordinator following the information session.
  3. Complete the mandatory training and mentorship components of the program. (Successful completion is required to be eligible for grant funding.)
  4. Submit a grant application and confirm your eligibility for an opportunity to receive a $5,000 business grant.*

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*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.