The United Counties of Prescott and Russell (UCPR) and the Prescott and Russell Entrepreneurship Centre (PREC) have launched the application period for the Starter Company Plus financial assistance program for SMEs in Prescott and Russell.
The program offers grants, training and mentoring to entrepreneurs wishing to start, grow or purchase a small business. Interested parties can apply now for this program which will start in November 2021.
Through the program, offered in collaboration with the Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, entrepreneurs will be able to participate in virtual seminars on topics that affect small and medium-sized businesses, such as financial basis, marketing, customer service, and business innovation. The PREC works in partnership with trainers and business coaches to offer current seminars.
The seminars are also a networking opportunity for participants. Participants can apply for a $5,000 grant. This financial assistance, in the form of a non-refundable grant, will help businesses with the installation and acquisition of important equipment, as well as any other expenses related to the costs associated with launching or expanding a business. In addition, the program supports the realization and execution of their business plan, as well as the presentation of their project.
“The United Counties of Prescott and Russell’s Economic Development and Tourism Department is proud of the opportunities development that the Entrepreneurship Center has created since its arrival at the UCPR,” said Carole Lavigne, Director of the EDT of the UCPR. “Our business community can benefit from its services and mentoring especially in these times of pandemic.”
“Over the years, the program has helped many entrepreneurs in the region to start and grow their businesses,” said Liza Langevin, PREC project officer. “We continue to adjust to the needs of the entrepreneurial community with each cohort.”
The program supports businesses on their path to success with advice and tools on various entrepreneurial aspects and to innovate during unexpected events such as COVID-19.
The Prescott and Russell Entrepreneurship Centre is a non-profit organization whose mission is to help small business owners in Prescott and Russell succeed in their start-up or expansion project. Entrepreneurs interested in participating in the program have until October 31, 2021, to apply by filling out the application form on the PREC website www.prec-cepr.com. For any questions, please contact Liza Langevin at 613-675-4661 or by email [email protected].
