Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs (RAISE)
Canada
Money for Indigenous, Black and other racialized entrepreneurs
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|maxCount
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|openingDateMarch 17, 2022
- grant_single|closingDateJune 21, 2022
- grant_single|grantStatusClosed
grant_single|financingType
Grant and Funding
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- Retail trade
grant_single|grantors
- Government of Ontario
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|closed
grant_single_labels|preview
Receive up to $10,000 in funding to start, grow and facilitate innovation within your business upon the completion of a structured training and coaching program for sustainable economic development.
grant_single_labels|projects
This grant focuses primarily on businesses within Ontario, as it is delivered through the Province of Ontario, aligning with regional economic development and digital transformation objectives.
- Businesses operational in Ontario, Canada.
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$10,000
Development of a new e-commerce website to increase online sales of local crafts
$10,000
Launch of a digital marketing campaign for a social enterprise promoting recycled products
$10,000
Upgrade to digital inventory management system for local sole proprietorship grocery store
$10,000
Implementation of digital tools for a more efficient financial management cooperative
$10,000
Design a responsive website for a non-profit organization to facilitate community donations
$10,000
Creation of a digital platform for a local food cooperative to improve member engagement
grant_single_labels|admissibility
There are specific eligibility criteria for this grant. To qualify, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a main street small business in Ontario
- Have a valid business number
- Operate in one of the Digital Main Street BIA or in a community with a digital service squad
- Have less than 10 employees
- Have not received funding from Digital Main Street in the past
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
The Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs (R.A.I.S.E.) program is designed for entrepreneurs from racialized and Indigenous communities in Ontario. It aims to support these groups in accessing resources, including digital tools and support, to enhance their business capabilities. The program thus specifically targets racialized individuals and Indigenous peoples who are engaged in entrepreneurial activities within the province.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply
There are specific types of companies that are not eligible for this grant:
- Companies outside the specified jurisdiction
- Non-profit organizations
- Government agencies
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
There are eligible expenses for this grant. Eligible expenses include:
- Marketing and advertising costs
- Website development and design
- Digital tools and software
- E-commerce platform fees
- Training and education related to digital transformation
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
There are specific geographic areas eligible for this grant:
- Ontario
grant_single_labels|criteria
There are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant. Applicants will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
- Business location within eligible area
- Eligibility of the applicant based on program requirements
- Demonstrated need for funding/support
- Viability and impact of proposed project
- Economic benefits to the community
grant_single_labels|register
- Step 1: Visit the R.A.I.S.E. program webpage on the Province of Ontario's website
- Step 2: Review the information provided on the program and eligibility requirements
- Step 3: Follow the application instructions outlined on the webpage
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
Here are additional relevant details for this grant:
- Digital Transformation Reporting will start one month after receiving grant funding and must continue monthly for six months.
- Final reporting will be available at the end of the program, with notifications sent via email.
- The portal for the Digital Transformation Grant program is currently closed, but digital assessment and training modules remain accessible.
- A new Digital Assessment focus on Cybersecurity has been introduced, requiring completion to update account recommendations.
- The platform has formed a new partnership with Intuit Mailchimp to provide access to exclusive updates and insights.
Apply to this program
Empowering Racialized and Indigenous Entrepreneurs in Ontario
The R.A.I.S.E. program aims to support racialized and Indigenous entrepreneurs in Ontario by providing targeted assistance and resources. Transitioned to provincial management, the program is integral to fostering diversity and inclusion within the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Understanding the Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs Program
The Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs (R.A.I.S.E.) program has been strategically developed to address the unique challenges faced by racialized and Indigenous entrepreneurs in the province of Ontario. This initiative is part of a broader commitment by the Ontario government to enhance economic opportunities for underrepresented groups, fostering a diverse and inclusive entrepreneurial community. Facilitated directly through the provincial framework, the R.A.I.S.E. program stands as a testament to targeted governmental support aimed at leveling the playing field for these communities.
A key aspect of the R.A.I.S.E. program is its focus on providing not only financial assistance but also invaluable networking opportunities and access to specialized resources. Participants can benefit from exclusive mentorship programs designed to hone skills and improve business acumen, especially crucial for navigating the competitive landscape of modern commerce. By demystifying the complexities of the business world, the program aids entrepreneurs in establishing and scaling their ventures effectively.
This program operates alongside other initiatives like Digital Main Street to ensure a comprehensive support system. Digital transformation plays a significant role in today's business environment, and initiatives like the Digital Transformation Grant program complement R.A.I.S.E. by equipping entrepreneurs with the digital tools necessary to succeed online. These combined efforts underscore the importance of both technological readiness and community support in building resilient business models.
The R.A.I.S.E. program underscores the importance of sustained support beyond initial funding. It mandates regular reporting to assess progress and outcomes, ensuring transparency and accountability in the use of funds. This structured monitoring not only fosters responsibility among recipients but also allows for adaptive strategies to be employed, ensuring the objectives of economic participation and empowerment are met.
Through the R.A.I.S.E. program, the Ontario government exemplifies a profound commitment to reducing economic disparities and promoting entrepreneurship as a vehicle for social change. The initiative is designed to attract a broad spectrum of applicants, acknowledging the diverse backgrounds and innovative capabilities of its potential participants. The program prioritizes inclusivity, recognizing the value in a business ecosystem enriched by varied perspectives and experiences.
Overall, the R.A.I.S.E. program is pivotal in advancing economic equality by fostering an environment where racialized and Indigenous entrepreneurs can thrive. By engaging in this program, entrepreneurs gain a significant advantage in accessing capital, mentorship, and networks essential for driving forward their business aspirations, ultimately contributing to a more equitable and prosperous economy in Ontario.
