The Small Business Centre and Entrepreneurship Centre in Windsor-Essex has a new grant program for early-stage small businesses.
Applications for the Jumpstart Recovery Program are being accepted until February 28, 2021.
"The small business centre recognizes the need for local businesses to adapt their business models in order to thrive during and after the COVID-19 pandemic," said Executive Director of the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre Sabrina DeMarco. "The Jumpstart Recovery Program will quickly equip business with a $5,000 grant, business continuity planning resources and mentorship to modify their operations and increase their likelihood of business sustainability and growth."
The program will award grants to 25 local businesses to fund projects related to investments in technology, advertising, or renovations to comply with COVID-19 regulations.
The Small Business Centre has many programs and supports that have been assisting small businesses throughout the pandemic.
“Although we recognize the resiliency of our small businesses, there is no question they have been hit hard by COVID-19. Throughout this pandemic, the Small Business Centre has responded to these new realities and the needs of small business each step of the way. We attended to a record-breaking volume of business inquiries, and we are grateful to have had the opportunity to lead new funding programs that offer additional relief and supports to our region’s small businesses. With the launch of the Jumpstart Recovery Program, the Small Business Centre will direct even more funds to Windsor-Essex businesses and provide guidance as they look to sustain and adapt their businesses in this new economy,” said DeMarco.
In 2020, the centre held over 770 business consultations, helped facilitate provincial and federal grant opportunities and assisted with 140 new business start-ups.