New boost for local startups

Peterborough Economic Development is offering new support for local entrepreneurs with Starter Company Plus.

Announced Sunday at the PED Start and Grow Fair, the new program is aimed at supporting startups in Peterborough the Kawarthas.

It’s for entrepreneurs 18 and older who are out of school and interested in starting a business, states a release from PED, as well as small businesses under five years old that are looking at expansion.

It’s modelled on the BLAST pilot program and an earlier version of Starter Company for youth 18-29.

“This program will provide entrepreneurs in Peterborough and the Kawarthas with the tools and tangible takeaways that they need to succeed in business,” states Suzanne McCrimmon, Peterborough Economic Development’s director of business development. “The training will focus on business planning fundamentals including financial literacy, operations and market research.”

Participants take part in a training program before submitting a business plan and competing for one of seven grants of $2,000$5,000, awarded on a merit basis, as well as business support from PED. The deadline to apply is 4 p.m. March 31.

The selected startups will be announced at a PED event later this year.

“Small businesses are the backbone of Peterborough County,” stated Warden Joe Taylor in a release. “Programs that offer training such as Starter Company will help to foster entrepreneurship and retain our entrepreneurs which in turn promotes growth for our region.”

Sunday’s announcement happened during the annual PED fair at Lansdowne Place. The event highlights programs and services available for entrepreneurs and would-be entrepreneurs in the area.

The province contributed funding to the program, which is offered in communities throughout Ontario.

“I am pleased that our government is partnering with Peterborough Economic Development to assist with their new Starter Company Plus program. This program will allow Peterborough Economic Development to support individuals who are looking to pursue a career as an entrepreneur right here in our community,” stated MPP Jeff Leal in a press release. “The program will provide these young entrepreneurs with the tools and supports needed to succeed in business.

Applications are now being accepted, with March 31 the deadline for the first of three intakes to the program this year.

A Starting Point workshop will happen every Monday in March at 210 Wolfe St. from 2:30-4 p.m.

For details, visit peterboroughed. ca/starter-company-plus.