By Welland Tribune |
A new grant is giving newcomers to Canada the opportunity to start or advance their small business.
Co-ordinated by the St. Catharines Enterprise Centre through the Niagara Folk Arts Multicultural Centre, the grant was created by an immigrant who found success and wanted to help support another immigrant, according to Yennis Camargo.
The skills training co-ordinator laid out the application process to a room of eager entrepreneurs at a recent information session, explaining that at least $1,500 is up for grabs.
Perhaps the biggest reward, however, will be the exposure, connections and empowerment, she said.
“I believe you cannot put a dollar amount to that.”
In order to be eligible, applicants must have been in Canada for less than 10 years, be at least 18-years-old, have a business registered within the past three years, have a business plan or executive summary (a requirement the Enterprise Centre will assist with) and make a sale or provide concrete proof of investment by April 6.
Applicants must also commit to 15 hours of training. The Folk Arts Centre will provide free bus tickets or child care to any participants who may need it while they are in training, said Camargo.
“It’s all about removing the potential barriers that you may have.”
Training sessions will run from February to April followed by one-on-one consultations, all of which will be provided for free.
“The way you pay is with your presence,” she said. “Our profit is our client success.”
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