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Source verified July 4, 2026
Starter Company PLUS - Windsor-Essex
Business start-up and growth support for entrepreneurs
Funding available
$ 5,000
Deadline
July 15, 2026
Location
Ontario, Canada
Who can apply
Small businesses that are startup (pre-revenue) or operating (under five years) and located in Windsor-Essex.
See full eligibility
Overview
Starter Company PLUS supports Windsor-Essex entrepreneurs starting, buying, or growing a small business with up to $5,000 in funding. It also includes training, mentoring, networking, and consulting support for eligible business owners.
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Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Develop strategic partnerships
- Develop team skills
- Increase production or service capacity
Eligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 5,000 $
Funds Providers
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Ontario
Legal structures
- For-profit business
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- Startups
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Attend business training workshops and group mentorship sessions.
- Meet regularly with a Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre advisor.
- Submit an updated business plan incorporating feedback received during the program.
- Participate in a business pitch event.
- Implement the approved growth initiative outlined in the Business Growth Proposal.
Documents Needed
- Business Plan
- Business Growth Proposal
Official resources
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Small businesses that are startup (pre-revenue) or operating (under five years) and located in Windsor-Essex.
- Applicants who are at least 18 years of age.
- Applicants who are not full-time students or returning to school full-time.
- Applicants who are residents of Ontario.
- Applicants who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
Who is not eligible
- Distributorships or franchises
- Non-profits and charities
- Pay-per-click businesses
- Commissioned sales businesses
- Multi-level marketing businesses
Eligible expenses
- Equipment
- Tools
- Training
- Marketing
- Leasehold Improvements
Ineligible Costs and Activities
- One-time supplies
- Rent
- Utilities
- Inventory
- Wages
- Travel
- Vehicles
- Cell phones
- Office supplies
Selection criteria
- Applications are evaluated based on eligibility, business viability, market opportunity, growth potential, commitment to the program, and alignment with program objectives.
- Preference may be given to businesses that operate in or support key growth sectors, contribute to the local economy, maintain or establish a commercial business location, create employment opportunities, or demonstrate a sustainable and growth-oriented business model.
How to apply
- Submit the eligibility form.
- If you meet the program eligibility requirements, you will be invited to complete the full application process.
- Submit your Business Plan or Business Growth Proposal, depending on the age of your business.
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are reviewed and may lead to an interview to discuss the business, growth goals, and application.
- Eligible applicants who successfully complete the application process will be considered for acceptance into the program.
- Participants must complete monthly progress reports and program check-ins to provide updates on business milestones, outcomes, and use of grant funds.
- Failure to meet program obligations may affect grant eligibility and could result in repayment of funds.
Additional information
- There are no fees associated with Starter Company PLUS.
- Funding is competitive and not all eligible applicants will be accepted.
- Participants must successfully complete all program requirements and meet grant agreement obligations to receive funding.
- Up to 23 people will be admitted to the 2026 program.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the Starter Company PLUS - Windsor-Essex Program
What is the Starter Company PLUS - Windsor-Essex?
Starter Company PLUS supports Windsor-Essex entrepreneurs starting, buying, or growing a small business with up to $5,000 in funding. It also includes training, mentoring, networking, and consulting support for eligible business owners.
How much funding can be received?
Starter Company PLUS - Windsor-Essex Funds up to $5,000 of admissible expenses.
Who is eligible for the Starter Company PLUS - Windsor-Essex program?
To be eligible for the Starter Company PLUS - Windsor-Essex program, you must:
The business must be startup, pre-revenue, or under 5 years old.
The applicant must complete all program requirements.
The applicant must be the majority owner with at least 51% ownership.
What expenses are eligible under Starter Company PLUS - Windsor-Essex?
Attend business training workshops and group mentorship sessions.
Meet regularly with a Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre advisor.
Submit an updated business plan incorporating feedback received during the program.
Participate in a business pitch event.
Implement the approved growth initiative outlined in the Business Growth Proposal.
Who can I contact for more information about the Starter Company PLUS - Windsor-Essex?
You can contact Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre (SBEC) by email at none or by phone at 519.253.6900.
Where is the Starter Company PLUS - Windsor-Essex available?
The Starter Company PLUS - Windsor-Essex program is available the province of Ontario.
Is the Starter Company PLUS - Windsor-Essex a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Starter Company PLUS - Windsor-Essex is a Grant and Funding