Funding your Dreams: Grant and Funding Opportunities

Starting or growing a small business takes more than a great idea — it often requires funding, mentorship, and access to the right support at the right time. Whether you're just getting started or looking to expand, there are a variety of grant and funding programs available to entrepreneurs in St. Thomas & Elgin County.

Starting or growing a small business takes more than a great idea — it often requires funding, mentorship, and access to the right support at the right time. Whether you're just getting started or looking to expand, a variety of grant and funding programs are available to entrepreneurs in St. Thomas & Elgin County.
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From local competitions to provincial programs and national lenders, our region is rich in resources for small business success. Here’s a roundup of some of the key opportunities every entrepreneur should know about.
 
Starter Company Plus – Up to $5,000 for New Entrepreneurs

Offered through the St. Thomas & Elgin Small Business Enterprise Centre, the Starter Company Plus program is designed for entrepreneurs aged 18 and over who are starting, buying, or expanding a business. It provides:

• A grant of up to $5,000
• Free training and business coaching
• Guidance on writing a solid business plan
• Mentorship from local experts

This program is highly competitive but an excellent opportunity for those with a strong business idea and a commitment to growth.
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📍 Learn more at the St. Thomas & Elgin SBEC or contact us directly for upcoming intake dates.

Summer Company – Up to $3,000 for Students Aged 15–29

Young entrepreneurs (aged 15–29) returning to school in the fall can apply to Summer Company, a provincial program also administered through the Small Business Enterprise Centre. This initiative helps students start and run their own summer business with:

• Up to $3,000 in funding
• Business training and mentorship
• Hands-on experience running a real business

Whether you want to test out a business idea or build something from scratch, Summer Company is a great way to gain skills and earn money over the summer.
 
Elgin Business Resource Centre (EBRC) – Loans, Support & The Pitch Competition

The Elgin Business Resource Centre is a vital hub for entrepreneurs across the region. EBRC offers:

• Business loans for start-up or expansion
• Advisory services, mentorship, and business planning support
• Workshops and networking events

One of their standout programs is The Pitch, a business competition that awards thousands of dollars in cash and in-kind prizes to local entrepreneurs who present the best business ideas. It’s an exciting way to gain exposure, refine your pitch, and potentially walk away with the resources to move your business forward.
📍 Check the EBRC website or follow them on social media for the next Pitch competition dates.
 
Futurpreneur – Loans & Mentorship for Entrepreneurs Aged 18–39
If you're between the ages of 18 and 39, Futurpreneur Canada is a fantastic national resource offering:

• Up to $75,000 in loan financing (in partnership with BDC and RBC)
• Access to a business mentor for up to 2 years
• Online tools and startup resources

Futurpreneur is a great option for young adults with a business idea but limited financial history or collateral.
 
BDC & Major Lenders – Business Loans & Financing Options

The Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) and other major lenders offer a wide range of financing options for small businesses, including:

• Start-up loans
• Equipment financing
• Working capital support

While loans can be a useful tool, we always recommend doing your homework before taking on debt. Make sure you understand the terms, interest rates, and repayment expectations — and consult with a small business advisor if you're unsure.
 
Not Sure Where to Start? We’re Here to Help.

​Navigating grants and funding can be overwhelming, especially with so many options on the table. The St. Thomas & Elgin Small Business Enterprise Centre is here to guide you. Whether you're looking for a grant, loan, or simply some advice on what’s available, we can help you explore your options and put together a plan that makes sense for your business.
📞 Contact us today to book a free one-on-one consultation or learn more about our upcoming workshops and funding info sessions.

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Emily Mason, Small Business Advisor

Emily Mason is an entrepreneur, business coach, and small business advocate. Originally from England, she earned a master’s in chemical engineering in Scotland before working at NatWest and becoming a certified business coach. She founded EFL Tutors, a successful online tutoring company, which she continues to run remotely. Now based in St. Thomas, Emily is excited to support local entrepreneurs through the Elgin-St. Thomas Small Business Enterprise Centre.