Community Futures Manitoba — Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program
MN, Canada
Loans and advice for rural Manitoba entrepreneurs with disabilities
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|maxCount
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|timelineUnspecified
grant_single|financingType
Expert Advice
Other Support
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- grant_single|allIndustries
grant_single|grantors
- Government of Canada
- Community Futures Manitoba
- Prairies Economic Development Canada
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|closed
grant_single_labels|preview
Get one-on-one business consultation, business plan assistance and loans to help you start or grow your business in rural Manitoba.
grant_single_labels|projects
The Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP) supports a range of business activities for individuals with disabilities or health conditions in rural Manitoba.
- Business Plan Development
- Business Training
- Business Coaching
- Small Business Supports – Digital Marketing or Business Mentorship
- One to One Business Consultation
- Business Resources
- Access to Repayable Loans for Viable Businesses
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$750
Neepawa
Launch a digital marketing campaign to promote rural eco-tourism in Neepawa.
$750
Carman
Implement a mentorship program for budding entrepreneurs in Carman.
$750
Winkler
Develop a digital marketing strategy for a local artisan in Winkler.
$750
Morden
Create a mentorship program for disabled entrepreneurs in Morden.
$750
Steinbach
Support a digital marketing initiative for a local bakery in Steinbach.
$750
Portage la Prairie
Develop a digital marketing strategy for a community garden in Portage la Prairie.
grant_single_labels|admissibility
The Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP) offers business services to people with disabilities or health conditions who want to start a business in rural Manitoba.
- Applicants must have a viable business idea.
- Applicants must have a disability or health condition.
- Businesses must be located outside of the City of Winnipeg.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
The Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP) supports individuals with disabilities or health conditions who are interested in starting a business in rural Manitoba. Eligible businesses can benefit from various supports, including digital marketing, business mentorship, business plan development, training, coaching, and access to small and medium-sized business loans.
- Businesses started by individuals with disabilities or health conditions
- Businesses located in rural Manitoba, outside of Winnipeg
- Viable business ideas
- Small or medium-sized businesses
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
Yes, there are eligible expenses for this grant.
The grant program covers two specific types of support expenses.
- Digital business marketing
- Supports from a business mentor
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
The eligible geographic zones for this grant are rural areas in Manitoba, excluding the City of Winnipeg.
- Rural Manitoba
- Areas outside the City of Winnipeg
grant_single_labels|register
- Step 1: Initial Inquiry
- Contact the Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP) by phone at 1-888-303-2232 or email at edpinfo@mts.net to express your interest and gather initial information.
- Step 2: Discuss Business Needs
- Meet with EDP representatives to discuss your business idea and specific needs. This may involve a one-on-one consultation to determine the best support options for you.
- Step 3: Develop a Business Plan
- Work on developing a detailed business plan with the assistance of EDP staff. This plan is crucial for assessing the viability of your business idea.
- Step 4: Access Available Resources
- Utilize the provided business resources and training opportunities available through the EDP or in the community to strengthen your business fundamentals.
- Step 5: Apply for Digital Marketing or Business Mentorship Support
- If eligible, apply for up to $750 in support for digital business marketing or business mentorship. Ensure your business is located outside of the City of Winnipeg and you have a self-declared health condition or disability.
- Step 6: Explore Repayable Loan Options
- If your business plan is deemed viable, explore the option of accessing repayable loans through Community Futures organizations, especially if you need additional financial support to start or grow your business.
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
The Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP) provides various business services to individuals with disabilities or health conditions in rural Manitoba, assisting them in starting or running a business. This aid includes business plan development, mentorship, and access to repayable loans.
- Open to anyone with a viable business idea who has a disability or a health condition.
- Applicants must be located outside of the City of Winnipeg.
- Provides up to $750 in supports for digital business marketing or business mentorship.
- One to one business consultation and access to business resources and training are available.
- Community Futures organizations offer small and medium sized business loans.
- Contact information: 1-888-303-2232, edpinfo@mts.net.
grant_single_labels|contact
edpinfo@mts.net
1-888-303-2232
Apply to this program
Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP) Grant Summary
The Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP) offers crucial business services, ranging from business plan development to digital marketing support, specifically tailored for individuals with disabilities or health conditions in rural Manitoba. This program provides up to $750 for eligible digital marketing or business mentorship services to help these entrepreneurs succeed.
Comprehensive Guide to the Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP)
The Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP) is an exceptional initiative aimed at fostering entrepreneurial growth for individuals with disabilities or health conditions in rural Manitoba. The program offers an array of essential business services and supports, ensuring that aspiring business owners have the tools they need to thrive. This guide provides an in-depth overview of the EDP, highlighting its offerings, eligibility criteria, and application process.
Understanding the EDP's Core Offerings
The EDP is designed to empower entrepreneurs with disabilities by providing comprehensive support in various key areas:
- Business Plan Development: Developing a solid business plan is crucial for any successful venture. The EDP assists participants in crafting detailed and viable business plans, addressing critical aspects such as market analysis, financial projections, and operational strategies.
- Business Training: Continuous learning is paramount in the ever-evolving business landscape. The EDP offers targeted training sessions to help entrepreneurs hone their skills and stay updated with industry trends. These trainings cover various topics including financial management, marketing strategies, and operational optimization.
- Business Coaching: Personalized guidance from experienced business coaches can significantly enhance an entrepreneur's chances of success. The EDP connects participants with trained business coaches who provide tailored advice and mentorship, helping them navigate challenges and leverage opportunities.
- Additional Supports: Recognizing the unique challenges faced by entrepreneurs with disabilities, the EDP offers additional supports to address specific needs. These supports can range from accessibility improvements to specialized equipment, ensuring that participants can focus on their business goals.
Small Business Supports – Digital Marketing or Business Mentorship
One of the standout features of the EDP is its provision for small business supports, particularly in the areas of digital marketing and business mentorship. This component is especially beneficial for rural Manitoba business owners with self-declared health conditions or disabilities:
Digital Business Marketing: In today's digital age, a robust online presence is essential for business growth. The EDP offers up to $750 to support the digital marketing efforts of eligible businesses. This can include website development, social media management, online advertising, and other digital marketing strategies.
Business Mentorship: Experienced mentors can provide invaluable insights and guidance. The EDP facilitates connections with seasoned business mentors who can offer strategic advice, helping entrepreneurs make informed decisions and achieve their business objectives.
One to One Business Consultation
Whether you are in the planning stages of starting a business or already managing one, personalized consultations can make a significant difference. The EDP offers one-to-one business consultations, during which participants can discuss their specific business needs and receive tailored advice. These consultations can cover various topics, including business planning, financial management, marketing strategies, and operational challenges.
Access to Repayable Loans for Viable Businesses
Securing financing can be a major hurdle for many entrepreneurs. The EDP addresses this by providing access to repayable loans for viable businesses. Community Futures organizations, which partner with the EDP, are a valuable source for small and medium-sized business loans. Entrepreneurs with disabilities or health conditions can benefit from additional supports to ensure their financial needs are met.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Reside in rural Manitoba, outside of the City of Winnipeg.
- Have a self-declared disability or health condition.
- Present a viable business idea or be currently running a business.
Eligibility is determined on a case-by-case basis, and applicants are encouraged to reach out to the program administrators to discuss their specific circumstances.
Application Process
The application process for the Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program is straightforward and designed to be accessible. Here are the steps to apply:
- Initial Inquiry: Prospective applicants should begin by contacting the EDP team via phone at 1-888-303-2232 or email at edpinfo@mts.net. This initial inquiry allows applicants to gather more information and clarify any questions they might have.
- Consultation: Following the initial inquiry, applicants will have the opportunity to schedule a one-to-one business consultation. During this consultation, they can discuss their business ideas, needs, and eligibility with an EDP representative.
- Application Submission: Once eligibility is confirmed, applicants will be guided through the process of submitting a formal application. This will include providing necessary documentation and outlining their business plans or needs for digital marketing and mentorship supports.
- Review and Approval: The EDP team will review submitted applications to ensure they meet the program's criteria and align with its objectives. Successful applicants will be notified of their approval and provided with further instructions.
Success Stories
The Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program has empowered numerous individuals to achieve their business dreams. Here are a few success stories:
- Jane's Handmade Crafts: Jane, a talented artisan with mobility challenges, leveraged the EDP's business plan development and digital marketing support to transform her hobby into a thriving online store. Today, Jane's Handmade Crafts enjoys a loyal customer base and consistent online sales.
- Mike's Custom Furniture: Mike, who lives with a chronic health condition, sought the EDP's business coaching and mentorship services to refine his custom furniture venture. With expert guidance, Mike streamlined his operations and expanded his client base, achieving significant growth.
Additional Resources
The EDP is dedicated to providing comprehensive support, and participants have access to a wealth of additional resources:
- Business Training: In addition to the personalized coaching and training sessions offered by the EDP, participants can access a variety of business training resources within the community. These resources cover diverse topics such as financial management, marketing strategies, and operational best practices.
- Community Networks: The EDP fosters connections among entrepreneurs with disabilities, creating a supportive community where participants can share experiences, insights, and resources. This network can be an invaluable source of encouragement and collaboration.
- Online Learning: The EDP provides access to online learning platforms and resources, allowing participants to learn at their own pace and convenience. These platforms offer courses and tutorials on a wide range of business-related topics.
Conclusion
The Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP) stands as a beacon of support and opportunity for individuals with disabilities or health conditions in rural Manitoba. By offering a wide range of services, from business plan development to digital marketing support and personalized coaching, the EDP empowers aspiring and existing entrepreneurs to overcome challenges and achieve their business goals. Whether you are in the early stages of planning a business or looking to expand an existing venture, the EDP provides the essential tools and resources needed for success. For more information or to begin your journey with the EDP, contact the program at 1-888-303-2232 or edpinfo@mts.net.
