New Start Ventures

Your business in Canada begins here

New Start Ventures is a specialized business support program created to empower newcomer entrepreneurs in Windsor-Essex. Whether you’re in the early stages of exploring a business idea or ready to take action, this program offers the essential knowledge, expert mentorship and valuable connections to help you navigate and thrive in the Canadian business environment.

About the program

New Start Ventures program aims to empower newcomers to Canadas by providing essential training and support to help them create successful business ventures in Windsor-Essex. This program is funded by Libro Credit Union, with support from ecosystem partner Community Futures Essex County.

Why choose New Start Ventures?

Tailored for Newcomers: Practical business knowledge adapted to the unique needs of immigrant entrepreneurs
Expert Guidance: One-on-one business advisory support from the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre and experienced professionals
Comprehensive Training: A week-long training program covering business planning, financing, marketing, and more
Mentorship & Networking: Connect with established newcomer entrepreneurs, community leaders and financial institutions
Small Cohorts, Big Impact: Intimate group training provides personalized support and meaningful connections

What you will learn

New Start Ventures provides newcomers with 15 hours of in-person training over a one-week period. Topics include:

Starting a Business in Canada: Legal requirements, visas, business registration and support programs
Writing a Business Plan: How to conduct market research and create a business plan
Nuances of Doing Business in Canada: Canadian workplace environment, business etiquette and cultural expectations
Financing Options and Requirements: Loans, grants and government funding opportunities
Marketing and Sales Strategies: Digital marketing, branding and finding customers
Costing and Pricing Strategies: How to price competitively and maximize profitability
Customer Service and Communication: Best practices for engaging customers in the Canadian market
Building a Support Network: Connecting with mentors, community resources and fellow entrepreneurs

Who should apply

New Start Ventures is designed for newcomers to Canada who meet the following criteria.

At least 18 years of age
Living in Windsor or Essex County
Permanent residents, Convention Refugee or newly naturalized Canadians
Residing in Canada for under five years
Intermediate proficiency in English (Canadian Language Benchmarks CBL 5-7 or higher)
Interested in starting a new business or currently operating a business (less than two years) in Windsor-Essex

How to apply

Interested newcomers are invited to complete an online application. You may be contacted to meet with a program coordinator to review your submission. Please contact us if you have questions about the application process.

Applications are closed but will reopen in the summer for the fall cohort.

FAQ

There is a cost to apply or participate in the program?

No, participation in New Start Ventures is completely free, thanks to funding and support from community partners.

How long is the program?

The New Venture Start program is offered during the spring and fall of 2025, with the first cohort offered from March 31 to April 4. Participants are expected to attend a one-week training program and complete an exit survey.

How many people are admitted to the program?

Approximately 30 people will be admitted into the 2025 program.

Will I receive funding or grants through this program?

New Start Ventures itself does not provide direct grants, but we connect participants with funding opportunities such as government programs, loan and other financial resources.

Is the program available in languages other than English?

Currently, the program is conducted in English. Participants must have an intermediate proficiency in English to fully benefit from the training. Resources in other language may be provided. Please contact us if you have questions.

Do I need to have a business idea to apply?

No, but it is encouraged. Whether you have a clear business idea or are just exploring entrepreneurship, New Start Ventures provides the guidance to help you develop and refine your business concept.

Can I apply if I’m already running a business?

Yes! If you are a newcomer who has started a business within the last two years, you can still benefit from the program’s mentorship, training and networking opportunities.

I don’t qualify for New Start Ventures 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.

Funded by Libro Credit Union Annual Grant Program

Ecosystem Supporter