Applications Open for Entrepreneurial Grant

Vic Fedeli, MPP for Nipissing announced that the Ontario government is investing $5 million to provide free business development training, coaching, networking support and a $10,000 grant to racialized and Indigenous entrepreneurs, protecting workers and small businesses. The Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs 2025-26 (RAISE) is a grant program that supports Indigenous, Black and other racialized entrepreneurs who live and operate their small business in Ontario.

 “The RAISE investment will ensure entrepreneurs and small business owners have the necessary training and support needed to launch and grow their businesses in Nipissing,” said MPP Vic Fedeli. “As we build a stronger, more prosperous Ontario, our government will continue working to remove barriers and ensure every Ontarian has every opportunity and support they need to reach their full potential.”

 Applications are now open for the 2025-26 RAISE program, where participants will receive free online business development training from DMZ at Toronto Metropolitan University , one of Canada’s leading business incubators, and a one-time grant of $10,000 upon successful completion.

 The RAISE program will help more than 400 entrepreneurs get the resources they need to transform innovative ideas into successful businesses, creating local jobs and long-term economic growth. Funding is part of the government’s $15 million investment over three years to ensure entrepreneurs and small business owners have the necessary training and support needed to launch and grow their businesses across the province.

 Interested entrepreneurs can learn more at Ontario.ca/RAISE and submit applications until the approaching deadline of October 1, 2025.

 QUICK FACTS

• Ontario launched the RAISE program in 2022 with an initial investment of $5 million to support over 400 entrepreneurs.
• To be eligible for the RAISE program, businesses must be registered/incorporated, based in Ontario and owned by an Indigenous, Black or other racialized individual.
• Black youth and professionals can receive further support through the Black Youth Action Plan (BYAP)’s Economic Empowerment stream, which focuses on career development, entrepreneurship and employment support.