Starter Company Plus Program - Hamilton

Overview of the Starter Company Plus Program - Hamilton program:

The Starter Company Plus Program is a provincially funded initiative delivered locally by the Hamilton Business Centre, in partnership with the Government of Ontario. The program is intended for entrepreneurs aged 18 and older who are not currently enrolled in full-time studies and who are committed to operating their business full-time. It targets individuals who are starting a new business, expanding an existing one (under five years old), or purchasing an existing business located within the City of Hamilton. This competitive program offers structured training in key areas such as business planning, budgeting, marketing, sales, and financial forecasting. Participants attend a mandatory training period where they gain essential knowledge needed to successfully run their businesses. After the training, eligible participants work one-on-one with advisors to complete a comprehensive business plan and cash flow forecast. Following successful submission of these documents, selected participants are invited to pitch their business idea to a panel for consideration to receive a non-repayable grant of up to $5,000. The program also offers mentorship and advisory support throughout, ensuring entrepreneurs are equipped with tools to build and sustain viable businesses in Hamilton’s local economy.

Benefits of the Starter Company Plus Program - Hamilton program:

• Opportunity to receive up to $5,000 in grant funding
• Free access to comprehensive business training covering business plan development, marketing, finance, and operations
• One-on-one advisory support to help build strong business foundations
• Hands-on assistance with creating a business plan and financial forecast
• The chance to pitch your business to a panel of judges for grant consideration
• Continued mentorship and advisory services after the program concludes
• Access to the Hamilton Business Centres networking events and small business resources

Eligibility criteria of the Starter Company Plus Program - Hamilton program:

• Must be registered at the time of application (Sole Proprietor, Partnership, or Corporation), and this documentation must show a City of Hamilton address,
• Must have a separate business bank account that corresponds with Business Registration documentation,
• Must have majority ownership and the ability to demonstrate proof of ownership and/or shareholder agreement,
• Businesses that require certification and/or license must be current at the time of application,
• Must have been in operation for a minimum of 6 months and be able to demonstrate financial activity statements for this period,
• Can provide a 25% investment of the grant amount ($1,250), and
• Must be able to commit to 12 hours of entrepreneurship training