Rise — Youth Small Business Program
Highlights
This program is designed for young entrepreneurs like you, aged 16-29, who are ready to turn their business ideas into reality. Whether you are looking to start a gig, launch a side hustle, or build a full-time business, this program offers the perfect platform to begin your journey.
Why should you apply?
- Skill-building: Gain practical skills in financial literacy, business registration, and customer engagement.
- Mentorship: Benefit from 1:1 training and group mentorship sessions with experienced entrepreneurs.
- Networking: Connect with like-minded individuals and join a robust virtual alumni community.
- Financing: Receive a $500 start-up grant upon program completion.
What’s in it for you?
- Flexible learning: Participate in live, twice-weekly virtual workshops and access self-paced online tools.
- Business plan development: Graduate with a practical business plan and the skills to implement it.
- Supportive environment: Learn in a safe, non-judgmental space that prioritizes mental health.
Qualifying for this program is straightforward, and it’s free to participate. Apply today to take the next step in building your business.
Financing Details
Type of Financing: Grant
Grant Amount: $500
Eligible Expenses:
- Business registration fees
- Marketing and promotional materials
- Equipment and supplies necessary for business operations
- Initial inventory purchases
- Professional services such as legal or accounting fees
Use of Funds: The grant can be used to cover any expenses directly related to starting or growing your business. This includes, but is not limited to, the items listed above.
Restrictions:
- The funds cannot be used for personal expenses.
- The grant cannot be applied to debt repayment.
- The grant cannot be used for any illegal activities or purposes not related to the business.
Fees:
- There are no fees associated with this grant program.
Qualifications
- Must be aged 16-29.
- Must be a Canadian citizen or Permanent Resident.
Must self-identify with mental health and/or addiction challenges.
Disqualifications:
- Does not meet the age requirement (16-29 years old).
- Not a Canadian citizen or Permanent Resident.
- Does not self-identify with mental health and/or addiction challenges.
Description
This program offers your business a chance to grow and succeed. You can receive a $500 start-up grant upon completing the program. This money can help cover initial costs like marketing, supplies, or other essentials to get your business off the ground.
The program is designed to be flexible and supportive. Over 8-10 weeks, you will participate in twice-weekly online sessions led by expert trainers. You will learn business basics, engage in group discussions, and receive guidance from experienced entrepreneurs. The program also includes one-on-one training and group mentorship sessions.
By the end of the program, you will have a practical business plan and the skills to execute it. You will also join a virtual alumni community, where you can continue to connect and collaborate with fellow entrepreneurs. This program is a valuable opportunity to build your business with the support and resources you need to succeed.
Program Steps
Gather Necessary Information: Understand the program details and ensure you have a clear business idea ready to develop or grow within the next 12 months.
Prepare Documentation: Collect the following documents to support your application:
- Proof of age (16-29 years)
- Proof of Canadian citizenship or Permanent Resident status
- A written statement self-identifying with mental health and/or addiction challenges
- A draft of your business plan
- Any additional documents that outline your business idea and goals
Complete the Application Form: Visit the program's application page and fill out the required fields with accurate and detailed information about your business idea and personal background.
Submit the Application: Once you have completed the form and attached all necessary documents, submit your application online.
Wait for Contact: After submission, the program team will review your application. They will contact you to discuss your business idea further and determine if the program is the right fit for you at this stage.
Participate in the Program: If selected, enroll in the program and commit to regular attendance, active participation in live sessions, and completion of all assignments.
Develop and Pitch Your Business Plan: Work on your business plan throughout the program and prepare to present it to your peers and an expert panel at the end of the program.
Graduate and Receive Grant: Upon successful completion of the program, receive your $500 start-up grant and join the virtual alumni community for ongoing support and networking.
