Deadline: 01-May-2026
The Starter Company Plus Program supports adults in Ontario who want to start, grow, or buy a small business. Eligible participants receive training, coaching, mentoring, networking support, and may apply for a financial award of up to $5,000 after successfully completing the program.
About the Program
The Starter Company Plus Program helps aspiring and existing entrepreneurs build stronger businesses through hands-on support.
It is designed for people who want to:
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Start a new business
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Grow an existing business
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Buy a small business
Participants receive practical guidance from local business leaders and qualified advisors.
What Does the Program Offer?
The program provides structured business support, including:
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Help with developing a business plan
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Free training sessions
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Business coaching and mentoring
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Networking opportunities
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Ongoing support from a qualified business advisor
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Opportunity to apply for a financial award of up to $5,000
Funding Information
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Financial award: Up to $5,000
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Available upon successful completion of the program
This funding can help participants move forward with launching, expanding, or purchasing a business.
Who is Eligible?
Applicants must meet all program requirements.
Basic eligibility criteria:
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Must be 18 years or older
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Must be planning to:
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Start a new business, or
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Expand an existing business, or
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Purchase a business in Ontario
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The business must be located in Ontario
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The business cannot be a franchise
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Must be a resident of Ontario
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Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
Additional requirements:
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Must not be attending school or returning to school
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Must not be enrolled in another provincial employment or self-employment program
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Must not have participated in Starter Company Plus before
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Must not be a Town of Orangeville employee
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Must be ready to commit at least 35 hours per week to the business
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Must attend all required training and mentorship sessions
How the Program Works
The program includes:
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10 bi-weekly sessions
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Training on key business topics
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Mentorship and coaching
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Networking with local business leaders
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Ongoing guidance to help build and execute a business plan
This structured format helps participants turn ideas into a practical and sustainable business.
Why This Program Matters
Starter Company Plus is useful for entrepreneurs who need more than just funding.
Key benefits include:
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Professional support while building a business
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Better business planning and decision-making
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Access to mentorship and local networks
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Improved readiness for business launch or growth
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Potential access to up to $5,000 in financial support
It is especially valuable for first-time entrepreneurs who need structure and accountability.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should:
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Confirm they meet all eligibility requirements
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Decide whether they are starting, expanding, or buying a business
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Prepare a clear business idea or growth plan
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Be ready to commit to the program schedule and time requirements
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Submit the official application
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Attend all required sessions if selected
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Complete the program successfully to become eligible for the funding award
Tips for a Strong Application
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Present a realistic and clear business idea
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Show commitment to full-time business operation
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Prepare a practical business plan
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Explain how the program will help your business succeed
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Be ready to participate actively in coaching and training
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Applying while still in school or planning to return
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Proposing a franchise business
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Underestimating the 35-hour weekly commitment
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Applying after already joining Starter Company Plus in the past
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Not being prepared for all required sessions
FAQs
What is Starter Company Plus?
It is a business support program in Ontario that helps adults start, grow, or buy a small business through training, mentoring, and possible financial support.
How much funding is available?
Participants may apply for a financial award of up to $5,000 after successfully completing the program.
Who can apply?
Ontario residents aged 18+ who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents and want to start, expand, or buy a business may apply, if they meet all other criteria.
Can franchise businesses apply?
No, franchise businesses are not eligible.
Do participants need to attend training?
Yes, participants must attend all required training and mentorship sessions.
Conclusion
The Starter Company Plus Program is a strong opportunity for adults in Ontario who want structured support to start, grow, or buy a small business.
With coaching, mentoring, business training, and potential funding of up to $5,000, the program offers a practical path for turning business goals into action.
For more information, visit Town of Orangeville.