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Midwestern

Grey County offers starter company funding

Small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs across Grey County will soon have an opportunity to access training, mentorship, and potential startup funding through the 2026 Starter Company Plus program.

Applications are now open for the program, which is funded by the Province of Ontario and delivered locally by the Grey County Business Enterprise Centre. The initiative is aimed at entrepreneurs aged 18 and older who are not currently returning to school and are looking to start or grow a business.

The program is set to begin in May and will include hands-on business training sessions focused on developing practical skills needed to launch and manage a successful business. Participants will also be paired with local business mentors who can provide guidance, advice, and industry insight throughout the process.

Following the training portion, participants will be required to present their business plans to a review committee. Successful applicants may be eligible for a grant of up to $5,000 to help cover startup costs or support business expansion.

Program organizers say Starter Company Plus is designed to strengthen local entrepreneurship by giving participants both the tools and the financial support needed to move their ideas forward.

Full program details and the online application are also available through the Grey County website under the Starter Company Plus section.

Applications for the 2026 intake will be accepted until April 19, 2026.

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