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Starter Company Plus Celebrates Spring 2025 Grant Recipients

TIMMINS, ON – The Business Enterprise Centre is proud to announce the successful applicants of the Spring 2025 intake of the Starter Company Plus program. Delivered virtually to applicants across the Cochrane District, the program offers training, mentorship, and up to $5,000 in grant funding to support entrepreneurs in launching, expanding, or purchasing a business.

This intake saw strong regional interest, with 76 applications received, an average of 27 participants per workshop, and 18 entrepreneurs submitting complete grant proposals, including a business plan and three-year cash flow projection.

“We’re incredibly proud of this year’s cohort,” said Mike Scott, Business Development Consultant at The Business Enterprise Centre. “The level of engagement and the quality of proposals reflect the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit in our region.”

Spring 2025 Grant Recipients
The following entrepreneurs were selected to receive grant funding:

Jocelyne Bain—Northern Arc and Industrial Services
Nicole Chartrand—Nails Plus by Nicole
Riley Demers—Demers Industrial Group Inc.
James Donaldson—Moose Basin Vacations
Yves Fecteau—Get Ur Dun Line Boring Inc.
Justin Goulet and Tony Esposito—Light Vis Safety Inc.
Cynthia Larrivée—Clinique Larrivée
Cameron Lemire—CL Lawn Care
Kim McCarty—Naturally Local Farms
Dana Rugless—Overflow Home Health Inc.
Ukrainian Food & Catering
Jonathan Toupin—Deluxe AV Solutions

Representing a diverse range of sectors, from agriculture and industrial supplies to professional services, these entrepreneurs are ready to make their mark.

What’s Next
The Business Enterprise Centre will continue to support clients through personalized consultation, funding and financing navigation, and strategic connections within the regional business ecosystem.

To learn more about Starter Company Plus and upcoming opportunities, visit https://northeastbec.com or contact The Business Enterprise Centre directly.

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Media Contact
Mike Scott
Business Development Consultant
The Business Enterprise Centre
mike.scott@timmins.ca
(705) 360-2600 x 7084


About Starter Company Plus
Funded by Ontario’s Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, and the Ministry of Northern Economic Development and Growth, and administered by The Business Enterprise Centre, Starter Company Plus supports entrepreneurs aged 18 and older who have completed their schooling.

The program includes:

  • Interactive workshops on business planning, marketing, and financial management
  • Ongoing support from a Business Development Consultant
  • One-on-one mentorship from experienced advisors
  • Grant funding of up to $5,000

About the Business Enterprise Centre
The Business Enterprise Centre is the Small Business Enterprise Centre serving Timmins and the Cochrane District. The Centre is hosted by the City of Timmins Economic Development department and provides resources, mentorship, and guidance to help entrepreneurs succeed.