More Funding for Small Businesses – Two Grants Available
The Small Business Centre (SBC) will once again be releasing the annual Starter Company Plus grant. SBC will also be releasing a new Digital Marketing Enhancement grant available to any business that can demonstrate rural resilience through the current COVID pandemic. Applications are ready and available for all small businesses to apply as of May 5, 2021.
“Any business can apply to both grants, but they can only receive one. We can help each business determine their greatest needs and guide them to the best grant for them.”, says Luc Fournier, Program Coordinator for the Small Business Centre. “Grants will be provided on a first come first serve basis until all funds are exhausted.”
The Digital Marketing Enhancement grant is specific to online marketing opportunities. Either by getting new businesses online or enhancing existing businesses with their online status by bringing in e-commerce platforms or strategic marketing placement opportunities.
The Starter Company Plus grant is more general and can be used for equipment purchases, other marketing opportunities (not online), support with new business purchases, or existing business expansions.
“The need for small business support is greater now than ever before”, says Amber Darling, Executive Director for Trenval. “These grants are designed to offer just that and we encourage the business community to apply.”
The program is designed to stimulate economic growth and create positive job impact for our communities. SBC can accept applications from a business located in the City of Belleville, the City of Quinte West, Hastings County, Prince Edward County and Lennox & Addington County.
The Small Business Centre offers supports to all businesses over and above the grant programs as well. Even if a business is not eligible for a grant they still have access to our full spectrum of resources and supports that are available year-round.
The Starter Company Plus grant is funded by the Government of Ontario through the Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade in support of small businesses in the Province of Ontario. The Digital Marketing Enhancement grant is funded by the SBC Ontario Network.
The 2021 information and more details can be found at www.smallbusinessctr.com.
