Huron County, Ontario – Aspiring and established small business owners in Huron County are invited to apply for the 2025 intake of the Starter Company Plus program, opening July 1, 2025. Offered through the County of Huron’s Business Centre, this program equips entrepreneurs with training, mentorship, and coaching to help them launch, grow, or purchase a small business. Participants also have a chance to receive a grant of up to $5,000.
“This program offers practical, hands-on support to help people build strong foundations for their business,” says Vicki Lass, Director of Economic Development for the County of Huron. “It’s an opportunity for entrepreneurs to take meaningful steps forward in their business journey.”
Starter Company Plus is a competitive program that draws strong interest each year. To be considered, interested entrepreneurs must submit a completed intake form by 4:00 p.m. on July 31, 2025. Applicants will be invited to a brief interview, and successful candidates will be notified by mid-August.
The program’s training and support components will run from September to November 2025, offering sessions on business planning, financial forecasting, marketing, and more. Participants will also receive one-on-one business coaching and mentorship.
“Past participants have high valued the hands-on approach, expert guidance, and accountability that the Starter Company Plus program offers,” says Brittany Wise, Manager of the Huron Business Centre.
To qualify for grant consideration, participants must complete a Business Plan Package, which includes a business plan, detailed cash flow projections, SWOT analysis, and other key planning tools. As part of the final stage, they will deliver a 10-minute pitch to an external Grant Review Committee for a chance to receive a grant of up to $5,000.
Delivered by the County of Huron, in partnership with the Province of Ontario, Starter Company Plus is designed to meet local economic development needs and may emphasize specific industries or sectors. The program welcomes entrepreneurs of all ages and stages, offering support tailored to their business goals.
To learn more about the program, eligibility requirements, and how to apply, visit www.HuronCounty.ca/economic-development or contact the Huron Business Centre at 519.524.8394 ext. 6.
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