Starter Company Plus Now Accepting Applications to Help Entrepreneurs Launch/ Grow Their Businesses

The Business Advisory Centre is thrilled to announce that applications are now open for the upcoming cohort of Starter Company Plus. This highly sought-after program offers entrepreneurs the essential tools, mentorship, and funding to take their businesses to the next level. The deadline to apply is April 2, 2025, at 11:59 PM.

"Starter Company Plus is more than just a program—it’s a transformative experience that reshapes the trajectory of the entrepreneur’s journey," said Rosalea Terry, Business Advisory Centre Manager. "By combining expert-led programming, valuable connections, a supportive cohort of like-minded individuals, and funding opportunities, we empower entrepreneurs with the resources they need to build and scale their businesses with confidence. This program is about more than financial support; it’s about equipping business owners with the tools, knowledge, and network to create lasting success."

Participants will receive personalized guidance from a seasoned business advisor who will help refine their strategies, build strong financial foundations, and develop effective marketing campaigns. The program also provides valuable networking opportunities, connecting entrepreneurs with experienced mentors and like-minded peers who have successfully started, expanded, or acquired small businesses.
“The Starter Company Plus program is essential for those looking to become entrepreneurs,” said Dave Smith, Member of Provincial Parliament for Peterborough-Kawartha. “By providing training, mentoring, and guidance, as well as grants, this initiative will equip individuals with the support they need to grow their businesses, opening up new avenues to transform their ventures into successful enterprises,” added MPP Smith.

Participants in the program will also benefit from additional resources designed to support their long-term success. Each entrepreneur will receive a six-month trial membership with the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce, providing them with valuable networking opportunities, business advocacy, and access to exclusive events. Additionally, they will have access to a conditionally pre-approved microloan from Community Futures Peterborough, offering financial support to help fuel business growth. These benefits further enhance the program’s impact, ensuring participants have the connections and capital they need to thrive.

"Supporting local entrepreneurs is essential for fostering innovation and economic growth in our region," said Devon Girard, Executive Director of Community Futures Peterborough. "Our first cohort of 21 businesses successfully completed the program with rave reviews and inspiring success stories, proving just how impactful Starter Company Plus can be for businesses. By providing entrepreneurs with expert-led programming, valuable connections, and access to funding, this program is truly transforming businesses and shaping the future of our local economy. We can't wait to see what the next cohort will accomplish."
Eligible applicants must be 18 years or older, based in the City or County of Peterborough, and ready to either launch a new business or expand an existing one.

For more details and to apply, visit www.cfpeterborough.ca/programs/startercompanyplus/ 

About Community Futures Peterborough

Community Futures Peterborough has a mission to support small businesses with flexible financing in the City and County of Peterborough. It has invested more than $42 million in 1,300+ small businesses since 1985, creating or maintaining more than 4,300 jobs in the City and the County. CFP is a not-for-profit organization funded by the Government of Canada, through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), as part of the Community Futures Program. In 2024, Community Futures Peterborough began delivery of the Small Business Enterprise Centre (SBEC) program, funded by the Province of Ontario. The Business Advisory Centre also receives operational funding from the City of Peterborough and the County of Peterborough.

For more information please contact:
Rosalea Terry, Manager, Business Advisory Centre
rosalea@cfpeterborough.ca 
Cell: 705-745-5434 x 4