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Source verified March 4, 2026
Rise — Youth Small Business Program
Free entrepreneurship training for young founders
Latest source updateLast Update: July 11, 2026Latest change: The Youth Small Business Program now shows updated eligibility, rolling cohort timing, a two-step follow-up process, and revised funding language.View change
Latest source update
Last Update: July 11, 2026
Latest change: The Youth Small Business Program now shows updated eligibility, rolling cohort timing, a two-step follow-up process, and revised funding language.
Youth Small Business Program updated
The Youth Small Business Program page now shows new eligibility details: applicants must live in Canada and have access to a computer and reliable internet, and the earlier Rise Navigator prerequisite is no longer visible. The page also updates the program window to rolling review with applications closing about one week before each cohort, and it lists upcoming cohorts starting June 9 to August 13, 2026, plus additional cohorts in August 2026, October 2026, January 2027, and March 2027. Application handling is now described as a follow-up within 3–5 days through a short Google Form, with a final response expected within 2 weeks. Funding language also changes from a $500 start-up grant to a post-graduation start-up grant, and the program now highlights an accelerated model that can be completed in as little as 2–6 weeks.
Funding available
$ 500
Deadline
Open continuously
Opened February 26, 2024
Location
Canada
Overview
This free online program helps young entrepreneurs build practical business skills and a business plan. Graduates may be eligible for a $500 start-up grant upon completion.
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Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Develop workforce skills
- Start a business
Eligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 500 $
Funds Providers
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Canada
Legal structures
- For-profit business
- Sole proprietorship
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- Canadians
- Youth (<40)
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Online entrepreneurship training for young people.
- Business plan development and pitching.
- Group mentorship and peer learning.
Official resources
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Young people aged 16 to 29.
- Canadian citizens and Permanent Residents.
- Applicants with mental health or addiction challenges.
Eligible expenses
The Youth Small Business Program (YSBP) helps young individuals build their entrepreneurial skills and transform business ideas into tangible ventures. The program provides training in business development, networking opportunities, and financial support, preparing participants to successfully launch and sustain a business.
- Participation in twice-weekly online sessions covering business basics and financial literacy.
- Development of a practical business plan ready for pitching to peers and an expert panel.
- Personal growth activities to improve confidence and communication skills.
- Access to group mentorship and networking with experienced entrepreneurs.
- Eligibility for a $500 start-up grant after program completion.
- Creation of 30-, 60-, and 90-day action plans for business growth.
- Access to a virtual alumni community for ongoing networking and support.
Eligible geographic areas
- Anywhere across Canada.
Selection criteria
- Well thought-out business idea.
- Commitment to building the business.
- Readiness to participate in the program.
How to apply
- Complete the online application form.
- Wait to be contacted about your business and program fit.
- If selected, enroll for available program dates.
- Follow email updates for upcoming opportunities.
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are reviewed after submission.
- Applicants are contacted to discuss their business and program fit.
- Participants are selected based on business readiness, commitment, and readiness to participate.
- If accepted, applicants are enrolled for available program dates as space permits.
- Email updates are sent throughout the process.
Additional information
- The program is free to participate in.
- Participants may join a virtual alumni community after completion.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Rise — Youth Small Business Program Program
What is the Rise — Youth Small Business Program?
This free online program helps young entrepreneurs build practical business skills and a business plan. Graduates may be eligible for a $500 start-up grant upon completion.
How much funding can be received?
Rise — Youth Small Business Program Funds up to $500 of admissible expenses.
Who is eligible for the Rise — Youth Small Business Program program?
To be eligible for the Rise — Youth Small Business Program program, you must:
Age 16 to 29.
Canadian citizen or Permanent Resident.
Mental health or addiction challenges.
What expenses are eligible under Rise — Youth Small Business Program?
Online entrepreneurship training for young people.
Business plan development and pitching.
Group mentorship and peer learning.
Where is the Rise — Youth Small Business Program available?
The Rise — Youth Small Business Program program is available across Canada.
Is the Rise — Youth Small Business Program a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Rise — Youth Small Business Program is a Expert Advice
Who are the financial supporters of the Rise — Youth Small Business Program?
Rise — Youth Small Business Program is funded by Rise