Administered by Government of Ontario · Last verified: July 2026
Ontario program for people starting, expanding, or buying a small business. Recipients get one-on-one advising, business workshops, and a mentor through a local Small Business Enterprise Centre. Selected applicants can also receive a grant of up to $5,000. You must contribute at least 25 percent of the grant amount in cash or in kind.
Review times vary by program, from a few weeks to a few months, so check the official page for its timeline. Grant money is usually paid after you sign a funding agreement, and cost-shared programs often reimburse you once you send proof of what you spent.
Take the 3-minute quiz to find out, and see every other Canadian program you qualify for at the same time.
Check my eligibilityStarter Company Plus is generally open to incorporated, self-employed, partnership businesses, in Ontario, under 5 years old. Confirm the full criteria on the official program page before applying.
The estimated value is Up to $5,000. The actual amount depends on your eligible costs, the program's budget, and approval.
1. Find your local Small Business Enterprise Centre 2. Contact the centre to confirm intake dates 3. Prepare a business plan and attend required workshops 4. Submit your application and pitch for the grant
Up to $10,000,000 (most awards much smaller)
GRANTUp to $500,000 (most awards under $100K)
GRANT50% of costs up to $12,500, plus up to $2,500 for accessibility upgrades and bonuses for multi-unit properties