Self-Employment Assistance
Canada
Funding to support self-employment job creation
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|noCondition
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|timelineUnspecified
grant_single|financingType
Grant and Funding
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- grant_single|allIndustries
grant_single|grantors
- Government of Newfoundland and Labrador
- Department of Advanced Education, Skills and Labour (NL)
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|open
grant_single_labels|preview
Assistance for Newfoundland and Labrador employment insurance (EI)-eligible individuals to start a business.
grant_single_labels|projects
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$16,000
Establishing an art gallery focusing on indigenous art
$15,000
Establishment of a community center for underprivileged families
$16,000
Start a social enterprise providing home care services
$16,000
Develop a non-profit educational program for children with disabilities
$14,000
Launch of a bakery specializing in gluten-free products
$10,000
Opening a coworking space focused on environmental startups
grant_single_labels|admissibility
Your organization may be eligible to receive funding as a Self-Employment Assistance Coordinator if it fulfills certain criteria.
- Your organization must be a business, municipality, band/tribal council, or a public health or educational institution.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
The Self-Employment Assistance program is designed for individuals who are currently unemployed and meet specific criteria related to Employment Insurance (EI), as well as organizations that can act as coordinators for the program. Specific eligibility for individuals includes:- Current Employment Insurance claimants.- Unemployed individuals whose benefit period has been established or ended within the last 60 months.For organizations, eligible entities include businesses, organizations, municipalities, band/tribal councils, and public health and educational institutions.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply
This grant opportunity, as outlined, does not specify any exclusions for certain types of companies or industries based on their status or primary activities. Eligibility criteria are focused on linking individuals and organizations to self-employment assistance rather than excluding specific types.
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
The Self-Employment Assistance program supports individuals and organizations in creating opportunities for self-employment. Eligible projects focus on facilitating the establishment of small businesses and supporting entrepreneurial growth.
- Financial and entrepreneurial assistance for individuals starting their own business.
- Coordination and support services provided by organizations for the self-employment program.
- Provision of living allowances in certain circumstances during the self-employment initiative.
- Coverage of participation-related costs such as dependent care and transportation.
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
The grant covers expenses related to participation for those seeking self-employment assistance.
- Dependent care costs associated with participation.
- Disability needs costs related to participation.
- Transportation expenses incurred while participating.
- Accommodation costs required during participation.
grant_single_labels|criteria
There are evaluation and selection criteria for the Self-Employment Assistance grant in Canada.
- Demonstrated financial need and feasibility of the business idea
- Ability to create sustainable self-employment
- Commitment to developing and implementing a viable business plan
- Clear understanding of the responsibilities and requirements of the program
- Alignment with program goals and objectives
grant_single_labels|register
Here are the steps to submit an application for the Self-Employment Assistance grant:
- Step 1: Complete the Request for Service Form
- Download and fill out the Request for Service Form available on the program’s website.
- Ensure all fields are filled accurately with the required personal information.
- Step 2: Develop Employment Plan
- Visit a local Employment Centre to develop your personalized employment plan.
- Work with an employment counsellor to outline your business idea and self-employment goals.
- Step 3: Submit Application
- Submit your completed Request for Service Form and employment plan to the Department of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills.
- Ensure submission is made through the proper channels as indicated by the department, either online or in-person at an Employment Centre.
- Confirm submission date as it serves as your qualification date for assistance.
- Step 4: Application Review
- The department will review your application for eligibility and completeness.
- Be available for any follow-up communication required by the department to support your application.
- Step 5: Receive Decision
- Wait for the decision regarding your application from the Department of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills.
- If approved, follow any further instructions provided regarding initiating your self-employment agreement.
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
Additional considerations and useful details regarding the Self-Employment Assistance program include:
- Individuals should maintain regular communication with their assigned local Employment Centre advisor to better align their personal business objectives with program resources.
- Participants are encouraged to take advantage of any offered entrepreneurial training and workshops that can complement their business knowledge.
- The success of an application can be potentially bolstered by demonstrating a clear understanding of market research and business viability.
- Participants with disabilities may be eligible for extended benefits and should inquire about tailored support services.
- While in the program, participants are encouraged to network with other entrepreneurs within the Self-Employment Assistance framework to foster community support and mentorship opportunities.
grant_single_labels|contact
1-800-563-6600
Apply to this program
Empower Your Entrepreneurial Journey with Self-Employment Assistance
The Self-Employment Assistance program offers financial aid and entrepreneurial guidance to unemployed individuals keen on starting their own businesses. This initiative is designed to assist them in creating sustainable employment opportunities for themselves.
A Comprehensive Guide to the Self-Employment Assistance Program
The Self-Employment Assistance program is a government initiative aimed at empowering unemployed individuals by providing them with the necessary resources to establish their own businesses. This employment program stands out for its dual-focused approach: it caters to individuals seeking personal entrepreneurial ventures and organizations that function as program coordinators. The program is especially beneficial for those currently on Employment Insurance (EI) or those with recent claims, providing a viable path to self-sufficiency in the business realm.
For individuals, the program offers a rich blend of financial support and entrepreneurial mentorship. Once a candidate successfully navigates the application process, which includes completing a Request for Service Form and working with an employment centre to develop an employment plan, they secure their eligibility for this invaluable support. The program's framework ensures that it caters to a wide range of financial needs, including living expenses, transportation, disability accommodations, and other participation-related costs. The duration of participant agreements varies, with a maximum of 52 weeks of support, extendable up to 78 weeks for individuals with disabilities. This flexibility underscores the commitment to making entrepreneurship accessible and feasible for all eligible Canadians.
For organizations, the opportunity to serve as coordinators under this initiative opens up new avenues for community engagement and economic development. Eligible entities—including businesses, public health bodies, educational institutions, and municipal councils—can apply for funding to facilitate the program's objectives. Registration with the Department of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills’ LaMPSS system is the first step, providing entities with the necessary tools and resources to streamline application processes online. By acting as coordinators, these organizations play a crucial role in nurturing entrepreneurial talent and potential within their communities.
In essence, the Self-Employment Assistance program is more than just a financial aid scheme; it is a stepping stone toward building a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem in Canada. By lowering the barriers to business ownership and offering comprehensive support, the program seeks to lessen unemployment and foster innovative, self-reliant economic contributions. Each participant stands to gain not only immediate assistance but also the long-term skills and confidence needed to thrive as entrepreneurs. By setting out clear, accessible steps for application and providing ample support, Self-Employment Assistance paves the way for the rise of new, dynamic entrepreneurs who can contribute significantly to Canada’s economy. In addition to fulfilling personal aspirations, this program also propels economic resilience and innovation, key drivers in nation-building efforts.
