Starter Company Plus
Turning Your Business
Ideas Into Success
With Starter Company Plus, you are not just getting support, you are stepping into a world of opportunities:
- Get personalized one-on-one guidance from a seasoned business advisor who is ready to supercharge your business journey
- Immerse yourself in dynamic workshops, seminars, and networking events that cover everything from building a strong business plan to mastering budget strategies and launching impactful marketing campaigns
- Connect with a mentor who brings real world experience in starting, expanding, or buying a small business
And that is not all. You could also receive a grant of up to $5,000 to fuel your entrepreneurial dreams.
Starter Company Plus applications open June 23, 2026.
Starter Company Plus includes
• In-class training with experts in their fields to help you plan your business
• Training and assistance in writing a business plan that may help you obtain more traditional financing in the future if you require it
• One-on-one consultations with the program facilitator
• An opportunity to build your network with other local small business owners and startups
• Participants in the program will have access to a 6-month trial membership with the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce
• A conditional pre-approved microloan from Community Futures Peterborough
• Upon completing the program, participants will submit their final business plan and pitch for a chance to receive a grant of up to $5,000
Who Should Apply?
• Anyone aged 18 and over who is out of school and interested in pursuing a career in entrepreneurship
• Anyone interested in starting a new business, expanding, or purchasing an existing business that has been operating for five years or less within the City of Peterborough and Peterborough County.
Register for our Virtual Information Session on June 25, 2026 to learn more about the application process, eligibility requirements and program details. For full eligibility criteria, please see the Eligibility Requirements for Starter Company Plus.
Virtual Information SessionProgram Dates
All accepted applicants must complete mandatory training sessions from 9am-11am each of the following dates:
September 9, 2026
September 16, 2026
September 23, 2026
October 7, 2026
October 19, 2026
Meet 2025 Starter Company Plus Cohort Graduates, Lark & Lemon
As working moms, entrepreneurs, and passionate creators, these two have poured countless hours into perfecting an eco-friendly, non-toxic cleaning line that is changing the game for homes everywhere.
We are so proud to have been a part of their entrepreneurial evolution. Here is what they had to say about their experience with the program:
“Community Futures has been such a huge part of our journey at Lark & Lemon. As two moms who started a business from the ground up, having access to their support, knowledge, and encouragement gave us the confidence and tools to take our business to the next level. We’ve been able to apply so much of what we learned directly to our growth, and today we’re watching our online sales climb and welcoming new retailers every month. We’re incredibly grateful to the Community Futures team for believing in us and helping us turn a big dream into something bigger than we ever imagined.”
Have questions?
Reach out to Rose Terry, Manager, Business Advisory Centre and Corporate Communications
rosalea@cfpeterborough.ca
