Starter Company Plus Program 2026

About

A funding program providing Ontario residents with the opportunity to receive a non-repayable grant, along with training and mentorship to help launch and grow their businesses. Participants will engage in workshops, receive one-on-one guidance, and develop essential business skills while committing to the operational success of their projects.

Benefits

• 💰Financial Support
  Opportunity to pitch for a non-repayable grant of up to $5,000
• 🎓Mentorship Program
  One-on-one guidance from a Small Business Enterprise Centre advisor
• 🏢Workshops and Seminars
  Access to professional business workshops, seminars, and networking events
• 📈Entrepreneur Training
  Training for entrepreneurs from business plan development to financial planning and marketing
• 🌐Business Mentorship
  Access to a professional business mentor with experience in starting, expanding, or buying a small business

Eligibility Criteria

• Must be a resident of Ontario
• Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
• Must be 18 years of age or older at the time of application
• Must not be currently attending school on a full-time basis nor intending to return to school
• Must not have full-time employment outside of the Project at the time of funding
• Must not be receiving social assistance
• Must be fully responsible for the ongoing operations and decisions of the Project and be the majority partner or shareholder
• Must not be enrolled in other provincial business startup programs that include financial assistance
• Must not have previously received Starter Company or Starter Company Plus funding in Ontario
• Business must operate in Greater Sudbury, Espanola and/or Manitoulin Island area

Participation Commitments

• Must complete mandatory training and mentoring
• Must submit a business plan and pitch by October 16, 2026
• Must attend weekly meetings for the entire length of the training period (approximately 4 months)
• Must commit to a minimum average of 35 hours a week running the business following the completion of the training period
• Must match the grant amount requested with a 25% personal investment

Target Region

Ontario

Target Sector

All sectors