Ontario Investing in Free Business Training for Racialized and Indigenous Entrepreneurs
The Ontario government is investing $5 million in the Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs (RAISE) program for 2024-25 to provide free access to business coaching, training and grants for more than 400 Indigenous, Black and other racialized entrepreneurs. This is part of the government’s $15 million investment over three years to provide more than 1,200 entrepreneurs with the training and support to launch and grow successful small businesses.
“Many Indigenous, Black and racialized people continue to face systemic barriers in starting and growing their businesses,” said Graham McGregor, who is acting for the Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism Michael Ford while he is on leave. “That’s why our government is making sure the next generation of diverse entrepreneurs is equipped with the tools, resources and capital they need to transform their passions into successful and competitive businesses.”
The RAISE program helps eliminate barriers faced by Indigenous, Black and other racialized entrepreneurs who want to start or grow their businesses. The government is now accepting applications for the 2024-25 intake which will provide eligible entrepreneurs with free online business development training, culturally responsive coaching, networking supports and a one-time grant of $10,000. Interested entrepreneurs can learn more about the program and apply here. Applications close on October 30, 2024.
The online training includes modules on business financials, cash flow management, business operations, marketing and public relations strategies and digital transformation. In partnership with DMZ at Toronto Metropolitan University, the program also provides one-on-one and small group business coaching, as well as networking opportunities to assist entrepreneurs in developing and achieving their business action plans, building networks, connecting to market opportunities and accessing information and services.
Since its initial launch in 2022, the government has supported more than 900 Indigenous, Black and racialized entrepreneurs to build the skills they need to succeed.
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