Grant programs and financing

The best business idea is useless if you can’t afford to get it off the ground. There are a number of ways to acquire the financing you need that best suits you, your business and your plans.

Business grant programs

Food-based Businesses
Foodpreneur Advantage is a regional collaboration of Small Business Enterprise Centres. Whether you are starting your food venture, or ready to expand and scale your operation, this is the best place to start. 
Starter Company Plus

Starter Company Plus is a provincially funded program for people that want to start, expand or buy a business.

Through this program, you will:

  • receive one-on-one guidance from experienced business advisors
  • participate in six free business workshops, where you will learn about business planning, developing a marketing plan, budgeting and how to create cash flow projections
  • create your own business plan and financial forecasts
  • work with local mentors with experience in starting, expanding or buying a business; and;
  • pitch your business to a panel of grant committee members for a chance to be awarded a grant of up to $5,000

This program is funded by the Ontario Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. Please keep in mind that this is a competitive process, and space is limited. Not all program participants will receive a grant, however business training and support are free of charge to participants.

Contact Natalie Walker at nwalker@brantford.ca or 519-756-4269 for more information.

The next program intake for the grant is scheduled for September 9, 2025. 
Summer Company 

Summer Company Logo

Summer Company is a provincially funded program for students between the ages of 15 to 29 that provides:

  • start-up money to help kick-off your new business
  • free business training from experienced advisors: and,
  • mentorship from local business leaders.
  • You must be returning to school in the Fall

Applications are now closed for the Summer 2025 Program. Summer Company will be returning in Spring of 2026.
Youth Financing and Incentives

Business financing options

Enterprise Brant
Enterprise Brant is one of 24 Community Futures Development Corporations serving Southwestern Ontario. They provide business loans and business counselling.
Small Business Financing & Incentives
Traditional Financing

Contact the Business Resource Centre with any questions or to learn more about one of the grant programs or financing options listed above.