The Ontario government is investing $4.8 million over the next two years to expand the Starter Company Plus program, aiming to assist an additional 500 entrepreneurs in launching and growing their businesses. This initiative is part of Ontario’s broader effort to support small businesses and foster economic growth across the province.
Nina Tangri, Associate Minister of Small Business, highlighted the importance of this program, stating, “Ontario’s entrepreneurs are vital to our economy. Our goal is to ensure we continue to provide the right supports and tools to help the province’s businesses thrive. The Starter Company Plus program provides training, mentoring, and business advice alongside a grant to help ensure people have the support they need to grow their business.”
The Starter Company Plus program is delivered through Ontario’s Small Business Enterprise Centres and offers entrepreneurs aged 18 and up access to one-on-one support, workshops, seminars, networking events, and grants up to $5,000. Over the past five years, the program has supported over 5,500 companies, resulting in the creation of more than 6,300 jobs across the province. With the new investment, total funding for the program will increase to $6.5 million per year.
Peter Bethlenfalvy, Minister of Finance, emphasized the importance of supporting new entrepreneurs, saying, “Ontario’s next generations of entrepreneurs will help determine our province’s bright economic future, and it is our job to ensure they have the tools they need to thrive in tomorrow’s economy. By continuing our investments to support the Starter Company Plus program, our government is one step closer to securing Ontario’s place as the best place to do business anywhere in the world.”
Small businesses are a critical component of Ontario’s economy, employing over two million people. The province offers a variety of programs and supports for entrepreneurs, including Regional Innovation Centres, Intellectual Property Ontario, and the Summer Company program, alongside tailored advice and business analysis through business advisory services.
Amarjot Sandhu, MPP for Brampton West, added, “This investment is a testament to our commitment to fostering innovation and supporting the entrepreneurial spirit in Ontario. By equipping our entrepreneurs with the necessary resources and support, we are paving the way for a stronger, more resilient economy.”