If you’re starting a new business, buying one or looking to grow your existing venture, 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.
The application period is closed and will reopen in August 2025.
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.
Current Participants

Ember Ridge Celebrations of Life
Amber LaSorda & Sandi Guadagno
Windsor-Essex’s first luxury venue for modern, inclusive memorials, Ember Ridge Celebrations of Life offers unique spaces and all-inclusive packages — including catering, floral arrangements and personalized displays for a warm, stress-free alternative to traditional services.
- 519-564-9095

Weldok
Artem Sutkovoi
WeldOK provides mobile welding, line-boring and engineering consulting across various industries. Led by welding expert Artem, the company specializes in MIG-MAG, TIG, MMA and advanced metal construction. Artem is committed to delivering cutting-edge welding solutions.
- 519-292-8101

Musicland
Bethany D’Alimonte
Musicland in Amherstburg has taken Windsor-Essex by storm since its rebranding and new ownership. Through her lessons, owner Bethany shares her passion for music, creating a dynamic space where enthusiasts of all ages can embrace and explore their love for music.

The Oven Door
Christopher Garbutt
Located in Amherstburg, The Oven Door food truck serves up fresh smashed burgers, chicken burgers and fresh-cut fries for a quick bite. Operating weekdays and at community events, they also offer catering services for private gatherings and special occasions.
- 226-345-7289

Cementology
Emad Booya
Leaders in advanced concrete technologies, Cementology offers comprehensive solutions for the construction industry, including structural analysis, quality control and project management. Partnering with industry leaders, they support a variety of infrastructure and architectural projects.

Femi Soluade
FEPSS
FEPSS is an e-commerce business offering comprehensive language solutions to help businesses. Services include subtitling, translation, voice-over and interpretation in over 200 language pairs with a mission is to break down language barriers and foster inclusivity.

Balanced Fitness Wellness Studio
Jen Haggitt-Lutsch
Jen, owner and certified trainer of Balanced Fitness Wellness Studio in Beller River, has brought her motivation and love for health and fitness to the community. Her studio offers 43 classes per week including sound-bath meditation, dance fitness, women’s self-defense and more.

TOTO Cafe Inc.
Joe Proeski
A thriving coffee destination, TOTO Cafe
redefines the experience with premium coffee and delicious pastries. Owner Joe is driven by global hospitality expertise, innovation and sustainability with plans to expand into coffee roasting and wholesale distribution.

Daisy & Co. Wine Bar
Nancy Burke
Daisy & Co. is a wine bar and hub for connections, offering curated local and international wines in a welcoming atmosphere. With over 25 years of hospitality experience and a Master Wine Taster Certification, Nancy supports the growth of Windsor-Essex as a vibrant destination for wine and tourism.

Functional Health Practitioner
Nancy Mahon
A dedicated nurse practitioner, Nancy Mahon takes a holistic and personalized approach to healthcare, working closely with clients to create individualized treatment plans that focus on achieving health goals and addressing the root cause of various conditions.
- 519-997-2364

Genio-Tech Robotics
Peri Mahmoud & Ahmed Zaky
Genio-Tech is inspiring future innovators through STEM education, equipping children and entrepreneurs with the skills to drive creativity and progress. Their mission is to help shape next the next wave of scientists, engineers and changemakers.

VANtastic Wellness Inc.
Sarah Simone
VANtastic Wellness Inc., a mobile massage and wellness practice, has grown into Sweet Retreat, a brick-and-mortar wellness space. This haven offers specialized treatments and workshops that promote mental, emotional and physical well-being for those looking to recharge.
- 519-992-8410

Ford City Potters
Lisa Gabriele & Gisele Bick
Owner Gisele is a talented pottery artist at Ford City Potters with over 15 years of experience and numerous awards. As a skilled teacher, she leads workshops alongside partner Lisa Gabriele. They hope their passion for pottery becomes contagious and inspires others to embrace the art form.

Yolanda’s Woodslee Pharmacy
Yolanda Stanczak
Yolanda’s Woodslee Pharmacy is a independent, family-established pharmacy offering a personalized approach to clients. Owner Yolanda is a registered pharmacist with over 25 years of clinical experience.
- 519-819-0416

Dustfree Cleaning
Patricia Riveron
Dustfree Clearning is a certified eco-friendly cleaning company providing healthy solutions with cleaning standards that prioritize the health and well-being of clients and the environment. Patricia is committed to offering fair wages and training
well-qualified, certified cleaners.