Unlock opportunities through digital transformation
Are you ready to strengthen your online presence, attract more customers and modernize your business operations?
The Digital Accelerator Program is a hands-on digital transformation program designed specifically for brick-and-mortar businesses in West Windsor.
Whether you’re looking to strengthen your e-commerce capabilities, refine your social media strategy, integrate AI solutions, or elevate your digital content, the Digital Accelerator Program is designed to meet your business where it is. Participants are offered practical training, advisory support and a professional digital content package.
The program is funded through the Gordie Howe International Bridge Community Benefits Plan, administered by the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority, and delivered by the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre (SBEC) as part of its West Windsor Business Development Program.
About the program
What You’ll Receive
Through practical training, expert support and targeted resources, you’ll build the digital skills and strategic foundation needed to compete and thrive in today’s evolving marketplace.
As a Digital Accelerator Program participant, you will complete the program on your own schedule. The program includes:
On-Demand Digital Training Courses
Access online courses which include video content, written materials, quizzes and useful resources.
Courses include:
- AI for Small Business
- Expanding into E-Commerce
- Email Marketing
- Social Media Marketing
- Google for Business
- Creating Great Content
- Building Your Brand Online
One-on-One Digital Assessment & Advisory Support
Your Digital Assessment serves as a roadmap for growth by evaluating your current digital readiness and identifying next steps. Each level of the assessment includes customized recommendations and activities aligned with your business goals, helping you make meaningful progress at every stage of your digital journey.
You will meet with a dedicated SBEC Marketing Advisor who will:
- Review your current digital tools and online presence
- Conduct a comprehensive digital assessment
- Identify gaps and growth opportunities
- Provide customized recommendations to enhance your digital presence and technology adoption
This is personalized, expert guidance focused on your specific business goals.
Professional Digital Content Package
Upon successful completion of the program requirements, you will be eligible to receive a professionally produced digital content package, including:
- Commercial photography at your place of business
- A professionally produced promotional video
- 360-degree photography of your storefront/interior
These assets can be used on your website, social media platforms, Google Business Profile and marketing materials to strengthen your brand and attract new customers.
Program Commitment
Participants are expected to:
- Complete all seven online courses
- Participate in a digital assessment meeting
- Review and implement recommended strategies where possible
- Complete a short program survey
All components must be completed within two (2) months of enrollment.
Who should apply
Applicant Criteria
You must:
- Be an Ontario resident operating a business in West Windsor
- Be 18 years of age or older
- Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
Business Eligibility Criteria
Your business must:
- Have a permanent brick-and-mortar location in West Windsor (within the defined boundary)
- Employ 1–50 employees (including owners/operators)
- Be registered or incorporated in Ontario
- Be open and actively operating at the time of application
Your business must not be:
- Renting temporary month-to-month office space
- Operating in a shared workspace (e.g., hot desk)
- A purely online business
- A franchise or distributor
- A non-profit or charity
- A pay-per-click, commissioned sales, or multi-level marketing business
- A single-event business
- A part-time or seasonal business
- A business supplying digital services to other businesses (e.g., web design, SEO, programming)
West Windsor Boundary
How to apply
Why apply?
- Increase online visibility
- Improve operational efficiency
- Adopt new technologies confidently
- Strengthen your brand
- Future-proof your business
- Access professional marketing assets valued at $1,500
Participation in the Digital Accelerator Program is competitive and application-based. Spots are limited.
Interested business owners must complete an online application form. Applications will be reviewed, and selected businesses will be notified of acceptance.
FAQ
There is a cost to apply or participate in the program?
No, participation in the Digital Accelerator Program is completely free, thanks to generous support from our funders.
My business isn’t located in West Windsor. Can I still participate in the program?
Currently, the Digital Accelerator Program is only open to eligible businesses located in Windsor’s west end. Please see the boundary map above or list of eligible postal codes in the application form.
How long is the program?
The Digital Accelerator Program is offered as an on-demand program to fit the participant’s schedule. Participants are expected to complete all program requirements within two months of acceptance in the program.
Will I receive funding through this program?
Digital Accelerator Program does not provide direct funding, but we connect participants with funding opportunities such as government programs, loan and other financial resources.
I don’t qualify for the Digital Accelerator Program. How can I get help to start or grow a business?
Please contact us for assistance or refer to our pages on Government Programs and Support and Regional Programs and Support to learn about other business support services.
