If you’re starting a new business, buying one or looking to grow your existing venture in Windsor-Essex, you may qualify for the Starter Company PLUS program. This program offers a grant of up to $5,000, along with training, mentoring, networking and personalized consulting support through the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre.
About the program
Since 2015, Starter Company PLUS has supported hundreds of Windsor-Essex entrepreneurs to start, grow and purchase a small business. This program takes place annually between November and February is funded by the Province of Ontario through the Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade in partnership locally with the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre.
Benefits
- 15 hours of in-person business training
- Group mentorship sessions
- One-on-one guidance from a Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre business advisor
- Grant of up to $5,000
- Mentorship from entrepreneurs and business professionals
- Networking opportunities
Program requirements
The Starter Company PLUS grant is awarded to participants that complete the following program requirements over a four-month period.
- Participate in business training and group mentorship sessions
- Submit a completed business plan
- Participate in a business pitch event
- Spend a minimum average of 35 hours a week running the business
- Complete monthly reports and meetings with a small business advisor
Who should apply
The Starter Company PLUS program is geared to small businesses that are startup (pre-revenue) or operating (under five years) and are located in Windsor-Essex. Applicants must meet the following minimum criteria.
- At least 18 years of age
- Not a full-time student or returning to school full-time
- A resident of Ontario
- A Canadian citizen or a permanent resident
- Willing to operate a business full-time
- Starting a new business or operating a business that is less than five years old
- Able to demonstrate 25 per cent matching funds in cash or in-kind assets
- Not in the research and development stage of the business development
- Not going to use the funds to refinance existing debt
What businesses don’t qualify for the program?
- Distributorships or franchises
- Non-profits and charities
- Pay-per-click businesses
- Commissioned sales
- Multi-level marketing (e.g., Avon, Scentsy, etc.)
- Single event (e.g., concert, performance, sports event)
- Part-time or seasonal businesses
How to apply
The first step to applying is completing an eligibility form. If eligible for the program, you will be invited submit a business plan. You may be contacted to meet with a program coordinator to review your application. Please contact us if you have questions about the application process.
Applications are now closed for the November 2025 cohort.
Applicant preferences
- Fulfills market demand in priority industries
- Can make an economic impact
- Storefront location
- Possibility for job creating
- Sustainable business model with potential to scale
FAQ
There is a cost to apply or participate in the program?
There are no fees associated with Starter Company PLUS.
How long is the program?
Starter Company PLUS runs annually from November to February of the following year. Participants are expected to attend mandatory training, mentor sessions and meet regularly with their business advisor during a four-month period.
How many people are admitted to the program?
Up to 23 people will be admitted to the 2025 program.
Do I have to pay taxes on the $5,000 grant?
The grant is taxable under the Canada and Ontario Income Tax Acts. A T4A slip will be issued to the recipient of the grant.
My business has more than one owner, do we all apply to the program?
No. Only the majority owner of the business can apply for Starter Company PLUS and receive the grant funding. However, business partners are welcome to attend the training and mentorship sessions.
I want to start a part-time business/side hustle. Can I join the program?
Starter Company PLUS is intended for entrepreneurs who will be working in their business on a full-time basis (minimum of 35 hours per week).
I don’t qualify for Starter Company PLUS. 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.
2025 Program Participants
Light house Grief Coaching & Therapeutic Art
Denise Turner
Lighthouse Grief Coaching & Therapeutic Art is a heart-led practice offering grief support and creative healing services for women navigating loss, identity shifts and emotional transitions. Through one-on-one grief coaching, small peer support groups and creative healing workshops, Lighthouse combines compassionate guidance, somatic tools, reflection and expressive art to help clients process grief, build resilience and reconnect with themselves in a supportive environment.
Warden’s Workshop
Anthony Warden
Warden’s Workshop is an Essex County-based handyman and home services business offering a wide range of professional services, including interior and exterior painting, home renovations and repairs, deck and fence installation, furniture assembly, RV repair, power washing, transportation services, and sewing machine restoration, with a focus on quality workmanship and dependable service.
One Dove Consulting and Intervention
Michelle Ruthven
One Dove Consulting & Intervention is an Essex-based counselling and intervention practice offering individual, family and couples therapy in-office or in settings where clients feel most comfortable. Focused on compassionate, personalized support, the practice helps clients navigate challenges, build resilience and work toward meaningful personal growth through therapy, crisis intervention, counselling and guidance during life transitions—all within a safe, welcoming environment.
Aquasculpt
Diana Miceli
Aquasculpt was created from a passion for fitness, wellness and creating unique experiences that inspire others. Combining innovation with movement, Aquasculpt offers a fresh approach to fitness on the water through floating workouts designed to challenge balance, core strength and mindfulness, while delivering an energizing experience that supports overall wellness.
Torus Doughnuts
Jenna Simms
Torus Doughnuts creates fresh, handmade doughnuts with a focus on unique flavors and an always-changing menu. Specializing in single doughnuts, dozens, mini doughnuts, custom orders and large event or wedding orders, Torus Doughnuts brings a creative and delicious twist to a classic treat, delivering quality and flavor in every bite.
Tranquillou Retreats
Louanne Sylvestre
Tranquillou Retreats is a wellness-based business dedicated to supporting mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Offering one-day and weekend retreats as well as wellness workshops for community groups, professionals and corporate teams, Tranquillou Retreats creates safe, restorative spaces where individuals can pause, reflect and reconnect. Retreats and workshops incorporate guided discussions, mindfulness practices, movement, self-reflection, and holistic wellness strategies to foster balance, resilience, and personal growth, helping participants and communities thrive.
Wedge Organic Farms
Krista Wegrzynowski
Wedge Organics Farm is a family-owned cut flower farm in LaSalle, Ontario, offering locally grown, cut flowers and custom flower arrangements. Soon, Wedge Organics Farm will expand to include workshops and farm events, creating a space for community gatherings, education, and celebration. Committed to quality and sustainability, the farm aims to be a trusted local source for beautiful flowers, handcrafted gifts and meaningful experiences.
Canadian Captures Photography
Crystal Laing
Canadian Captures Photography is a full-service portrait studio in Amherstburg specializing in newborn, maternity, and children’s photography, as well as family sessions and professional headshots. Sessions can be held in-studio, outdoors, or as relaxed lifestyle experiences in the comfort of clients’ homes. The studio features a dedicated space for backdrops, props, and outfits, making it easy to customize every session while delivering a seamless and personalized experience.
Flow Café & Bikes
Dave Doherty
Flow Cafe and Bikes is more than a bike shop—it’s a community hub for riders of all levels to connect, talk bikes and enjoy great coffee. Flow Cafe and Bikes offers a curated selection of bicycles from brands like Felt, Marin, and Kona, along with quality parts and accessories from suppliers such as Shimano and HLC. With a focus on reliable products, expert advice and a welcoming atmosphere, the shop supports cyclists in fueling their passion and building a vibrant local cycling community.
CHICK’N VILLE
Nilam Patel
Chick’n Ville brings bold flavours and freshly prepared Nashville-style fried chicken to the community. At Chick’n Ville, every meal is made with fresh chicken, house-made spice blends, scratch-made sauces and carefully prepared sides. The menu features a range of spice levels—from mild to extra hot—so every customer can enjoy a personalized dining experience. Committed to quality, freshness, and consistency, Chick’n Ville is a place where people can enjoy fresh, flavourful food and always feel confident in the quality of what they are eating.
TPI CNC
Teddy Powell
TPI CNC INC. is your go-to source for premium industrial machinery solutions in Ontario. Service-driven and technology-forward, TPI CNC INC. delivers top-quality equipment and expert support to keep your operations running smoothly.
Soluna Sip
Anna Sengthavongsa
Soluna Sip is a modern, high-vibe café blending bold, refreshing drinks with a strong sense of community and intention. Inspired by the balance of sun and moon, Soluna Sip offers handcrafted beverages that energize, uplift, and bring people together, creating a space where every sip feels like a moment of connection and creativity.
Marenco Architects Inc.
Kathryn Marenco
Marenco Architects is a Windsor-based architectural practice delivering thoughtful, efficient design solutions for residential, mixed-use and adaptive reuse projects. Drawing on experience across architecture, development, and construction, the firm provides full architectural and interior design services. With an emphasis on durable, high-performing buildings, heritage sensitivity and contemporary minimalism, Marenco Architects is committed to helping developers and communities deliver well-designed spaces that support growth through collaboration, clear communication and practical expertise.
Loebach Law
Christina Loebach
Loebach Law is a law firm providing strategic legal services in immigration and criminal law. The firm supports clients with sponsorships, visas, citizenship applications and criminal defence, offering expert guidance tailored to each case. Committed to quality over quantity, Loebach Law helps individuals and families navigate complex legal challenges and achieve their goals.
Dutch Boys Chocolate Inc.
Maggie Leonard
Dutch Boys Chocolate specializes in handcrafted chocolates, truffles and distinctive 3D chocolate creations made using custom moulds and traditional techniques. Known for creative designs, premium ingredients and careful craftsmanship, the business offers a unique chocolate experience focused on flavour, quality and attention to detail.
Mangia Y’all
Rose Tobin
Italian and Southern comfort food that brings family traditions from our kitchen to your table. Rose is a home cook with a true love of food. Her Italian dishes are inspired by her father, who was born in the Frosinone region of Italy. Her Southern American dishes are inspired by her husband, who was raised in Charleston, South Carolina. She creates simple, homemade dishes that are guaranteed to warm your heart and feed your soul.
Kass Design Studio
Kass DiPasquale
Kass Design Studio is a Windsor-based interior design studio offering thoughtful, personalized design solutions that blend functionality, style, and comfort. Specializing in creating refined residential spaces, the studio works closely with clients to bring their vision to life through carefully curated interiors, practical planning, and timeless design details.
Golden Sorella Company
Natalie Maio
Golden Sorella Company is preparing to launch a retail store and bakery café centered around honey-inspired products and baked goods, creating a welcoming space that blends specialty retail with a warm café experience.
Marigold Wine and Goods
Nick Friars and Lynne Nadeau
Marigold Wine and Goods is a wine retail business currently in development, this concept is focused on creating a curated wine shop experience paired with a small dining component and thoughtfully selected food offerings.
Sonder Therapy
Tina Blemings
Sonder Therapy provides occupational and speech therapy services that support children and youth in building the skills needed to participate confidently at home, school and in the community. Using a family-centered, neurodiversity-affirming approach, Sonder Therapy offers personalized care designed to build confidence, strengthen connection and support authentic participation in daily life.
Nuts4Dates
Fadi and Lena Bidawid
Nuts4Dates is a husband-and-wife team passionate about community, local ingredients and healthier dessert and snack alternatives. Their gluten-free treats, inspired by their Iraqi heritage and the everyday use of dates, celebrate home, culture and authentic flavours. From their Ford City headquarters, they engage with the community and share products crafted with natural ingredients and pride, bringing the joy of wholesome, flavorful treats to all.
Hyena Brew Company
Mike Solcz
Hyena Brew Company is a non-alcoholic beverage brand redefining what beer can be. Founded by brothers Mike and Chris, Hyena crafts non-alcoholic beers with electrolytes for people who want to enjoy the moment while still feeling their best the next day. Designed for an active, health-conscious lifestyle, Hyena’s products are available in retail, on-premise and active lifestyle channels, currently reaching 35 locations and expanding across Southwestern Ontario.
Savour Guyana Culture & Cuisine Inc.
Anthony Man-Son-Hing
Savour Guyana Culture & Cuisine Inc. celebrates heritage through authentic Caribbean flavours. Founded by a Guyanese-Canadian entrepreneur, the company offers signature condiments, traditional baked goods, merchandise, and culinary services—connecting the Guyanese diaspora to their roots while sharing the vibrant culinary traditions of the Caribbean with the broader Canadian market.