Toronto Retail Accelerator Program

Eligibility for the Retail Accelerator Program requires businesses to meet specific criteria related to ownership, location, and operational requirements.

• The business must be an independent retail operation located within the City of Toronto.
• The business can be a sole proprietorship or corporation where the applicant is the majority shareholder, or a partnership where the applicant holds the majority share. If shared 50/50, only one partner may apply.
• The applicant must be 18 years of age or older.
• The applicant must be full-time self-employed and the majority owner in the business.
• The business must have a current lease agreement or ownership documentation for the retail location.
• A separate business bank account must be maintained in accordance with government rules and regulations for operating a business.
• The applicant must be prepared to commit to the business training components of the program.
• Proof of expenses must be provided as requested by the City of Toronto.
• A survey must be completed at the end of the program.

Who is eligible?

Who is not eligible

This grant is not accessible to certain businesses and operational models due to specific restrictions. These limitations ensure the program supports independent retail businesses with physical locations in Toronto.

• Franchises, commissioned sales, and distributorships.
• Online e-commerce retail operations that lack a physical location.
• Mobile retail operations of any kind.
• Not-for-profits, social enterprises, co-operatives, or charitable enterprises.
• Multi-level marketing ventures.
• Single events, musical bands, DJs, or party event organizations.

Eligible geographic areas

This grant is open to retail businesses operating specifically within a designated geographical area. The eligibility criteria focuses on ensuring support for local economic development.

• Businesses located within the City of Toronto.

The Retail Accelerator Program is designed to support small retail businesses in Toronto with access to training, advisory services, mentoring opportunities, and a $10,000 micro grant.

• Applications are currently closed as funding has been expended. New applications may be accepted if additional funding becomes available.
• Interested parties are advised to subscribe to the BusinessTO newsletter to stay informed about business resources and supports.
• For more information, contact Fariba Niroui at 416-392-1328 or Fariba.Niroui@toronto.ca.