Have you always dreamed of starting a new business? Are you looking for some help to expand your business? This program is for you!
Starter Company Plus is an excellent mentoring and training program for entrepreneurs, 18 or over, who are not returning to school. Upon successful graduation from this program, participants may be eligible for a micro-grant of up to $5,000 to start, purchase, or expand a business. Program services include:
- Training and business skills development;
- Advice and mentorship opportunities from local business leaders;
- Where eligible, a micro-grant of up to $5,000 to start, purchase, or expand a business; and
- Assistance in developing and modelling business plans in order to acquire additional capital.
This program will not only help you develop business skills, but will also provide you with networking opportunities to expand your horizons as an entrepreneur. Hear from our previous participants to see how the Starter Company Plus program can benefit your business.
Who can apply?
Eligible participants for the Starter Company Plus program are:
- Over the age of 18
- Proposing a new company, expansion of an existing company (less than 3 years in operation), or buying a business in the Algoma region
- A Canadian citizen or permanent resident, and resident of Ontario
- Not a student and not returning to school
- Not enrolled in any provincial or government-funded employment, self-employment related or entrepreneurship training program (with/without financial assistance)
- Prepared to attend weekly meetings for the entire length of the training period
- Prepared to commit a minimum average of 35 hours a week running the business
- Can demonstrate 25% matching funds in cash or in-kind assets
- Have not previously received the Starter Company Plus grant
- New businesses must be able to launch and generate sales within 60 days of receiving the first disbursement
- In order for a business expansion to be eligible for the grant, concrete growth goals must be established
Ineligible businesses for the Starter Company Plus program include:
- Distributorship/franchise
- Non-profit or charity
- Pay-per-click business
- Commissioned sales
- Multi-level marketing
- Single events
- Part-time/seasonal business
- Property investment and/or short-term rental investments
Applications for the Spring 2025 intake are now closed. If you are interested in the Spring 2026 intake, please proceed to fill out the application form and we will be in touch to begin one-on-one consultations. All applicants will be notified when the program training commences with a course delivery schedule.
If you’re looking for general business counselling, you can book an appointment with our Business Advisor by filling out this form: https://themillworks.ca/client-inquiry/