Starter Company Plus Program - Vaughan

The Starter Company Plus Program in Vaughan offers training, mentorship, and up to $5,000 in grant funding for Ontario residents aged 18+ who are starting, expanding, or purchasing a small business in Vaughan.

City of Vaughan

Overview of the Starter Company Plus Program - Vaughan program:

Delivered by the Vaughan Business and Entrepreneurship Centre (VBEC) and funded by the Government of Ontario, the Starter Company Plus Program is a competitive program aimed at helping entrepreneurs establish or grow a business in Vaughan. It is intended for individuals aged 18 and older who are launching a new business, expanding a business less than five years old, or purchasing an existing business. Participants benefit from structured business training focused on topics such as business planning, marketing, financial forecasting, and operations. The program includes mandatory workshops, one-on-one consultations, and the opportunity to develop a detailed business plan and financial projections. Those who complete the training and meet program requirements may apply for a grant of up to $5,000. Grant recipients are selected based on a final pitch presentation to a review committee. This program is ideal for committed entrepreneurs who are ready to operate their business full-time in Vaughan and want support in developing a strong foundation for long-term success.

Benefits of the Starter Company Plus Program - Vaughan program:

Access to a non-repayable grant of up to $5,000
Training sessions covering business fundamentals like planning, marketing, finance, and operations
One-on-one support from VBEC business advisors
Help creating a professional business plan and 2-year financial forecast
Participation in a business pitch presentation
Networking and peer-learning opportunities through group sessions
Continued advisory and mentorship support following the program
Support in setting measurable goals and tracking business progress

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

Be 18 years of age or older at the time of application
Not be enrolled in full-time education
Be a resident of Vaughn, Ontario
Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
Not currently participating in any other government-funded self-employment or entrepreneurship training or financing programs
Not have previously received a Starter Company or Starter Company Plus grant