Entrepreneurship funds and resources for people under 30
Thinking about starting your own business? There are government support programs to help you get started.
Starter Company Plus
You can apply if you're:
- 18 years of age or older
- an Ontario resident and Canadian citizen (or permanent resident)
- not attending school full-time or returning to school
To qualify for a grant, you must be able to contribute 25% of the grant amount in cash or in kind.
Microlending for Women in Ontario
- Get financial literacy training, entrepreneurship mentoring and skills development and life skills support
- Become eligible for a small loan to start your own business
Youth Entrepreneurship Fund (Youth Investment Accelerator Fund)
- Apply for investment capital ($100,000- $250,000) to help your business expand
- Your business must not be beyond the seed capital stage, with revenues under $500,000
- Strong potential to attract follow-on financing
Youth Entrepreneurship Fund (Youth Business Accelerator Program)
- Get $5,000-$20,000 to help grow your innovative tech-sector business
- Access to valuable market intelligence and network support
School of Social Entrepreneurs
- A 6-month fellowship at the Daniels Centre of Learning in Toronto
- Support to help you develop and secure a social venture that can benefit your community (e.g., fair trade products)
- Cost: $1,500 (including course materials and school fees)
- Scholarships and bursaries available, in some cases
Northern Business Opportunity Program – Small Business Start-Up Projects
- Get money to start a business in Northern Ontario
- Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation assistance will be in the form of a conditional contribution and will generally not exceed 50% of eligible project costs up to a maximum of $200,000.
Summer Company
- Get start-up money to kick-off a new summer business
- Up to $1,500 up front to help with start-up costs
- Up to $1,500 when you successfully complete the program requirements
- Receive advice and mentorship from local business leaders to help get the business up and running
Updated: April 30, 2024
Published: January 02, 2014