Business Enterprise Centre

A FREE resource to help your business build an online presence and promote and sell successfully online. We service the Grey County region at no cost to you and your business.

The main role of a Digital Service Squad team member is to assess your business’s online presence and provide recommendations on how to enhance your digital capabilities.

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Are you a student who has always dreamed of running your own business?

Summer Company offers students (high-school or post-secondary) between the ages of 15-29 the opportunity to start and manage their own summer business. Successful applicants will receive a grant of up to $3,000, and invaluable training and mentorship from local business leaders.

Summer Company 2024 is now accepting applications!

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Do you need assistance starting your own business?

Starter Company Plus is a training and mentorship program for entrepreneurs over the age of 18 who are not returning to school. Participants receive training and business skills development as well as mentorship from local business leaders. Participants may also be eligible for a grant of up to $5000. 

*Please read full program guidelines and FAQ's prior to applying.

Applications for 2024 are now open until April 19. Apply here.

Full Program Guidelines

Starter Company Plus FAQs

Q. Am I eligible for Starter Company Plus?

A. You are eligible for Starter Company Plus if you are:

Proposing a new company or operating a new business for a period 1 year or less within Grey County.

Not a full time student and not returning to school full time

A resident of Ontario

A Canadian citizen or a permanent resident

Prepared to complete the business training components of the Starter Company Plus Program as prescribed by your Small Business Enterprise Centre Program Provider

Prepared to commit to a minimum average of 35 hours a week running the business

Can demonstrate 25% matching funds in cash and in-kind assets

Prepared to attend monthly meetings for at least six months after acceptance into the program

Not receiving government income support, such as: Ontario Works, EI, ODSP

Q. What type of business can I start?

A. Almost any type of business is eligible, as long as it is:

A sole proprietorship or a corporation where the applicant will be the majority shareholder

A partnership*

An independent business venture

Social enterprise

Fits the Canada Revenue Agency definition of being self-employed

Operates at arm's length from family business ventures

Operates in Ontario

Operates full-time as defined in the business plan

Maintains its own books and records

Maintains a separate business bank account

Follows government rules and regulations for operating a business

*If only one partner is eligible for Starter Company Plus he/she must demonstrate 51% ownership of the company

Businesses not eligible for Starter Company Plus include:

Distributorships

Commissioned sales

Not-for-profit or charitable enterprises

Multi-level marketing ventures

Single events such as a theatrical production, a DJ gig, a music concert, a dance/party event, a fundraiser, a sporting tournament, etc.

Businesses that are strictly pay per click

1-900 businesses

Futurpreneur Canada provides youth age 18-39 with the opportunity for low interest financing for their business, as well as an internationally recognized mentoring program.

For more information visit the Futurpreneur website(link is external) or contact The Business Enterprise Centre.