Rise Asset Development’s Peer Supported StartUp Program provides educational, business advisory and mentorship support. It includes a FREE training program that supports the preparation of a business plan as well as the development of entrepreneurship skills and the confidence to launch and grow a business.  While the business plan is being prepared, participants form groups of 2-6 people. Once the business plan is completed, participants meet on a monthly basis in their small groups for up to 6 months to support the launch and growth of each other’s businesses, with the added support of a business advisor and a mentor.

The program includes:

Workshops: Practical, hands-on workshops focused producing a viable business plan and developing business skills. The workshops run from 9:30 am to 1:00 pm, two days per week over a one month period.

Peer Groups: By the end of the training session, participants form groups of 2 – 6 people. Monthly business start-up peer support meetings run for up to 6 months. Each group also has a Rise mentor who will work with them to provide guidance and support as they launch their businesses.

Laptop: Participants who do not have easy access to a computer will be given use of a refurbished laptop.

Expectations and Outcomes: All participants must complete a business plan and will have the opportunity to present their plan to Rise mentors and business advisors on the final day of the program. Participants receive a certificate upon successful completion of the program.

Financing: Participants successfully completing the program may be eligible to receive a start-up grant of $200. They may also be eligible to apply for a low interest small business loan from Rise.

Selection for the program will be based on the strength of the applicant’s commitment to starting a business and viability of the busi­ness idea.

Benefits of the Peer Supported StartUp Program

• Business development: The training, business advisor and mentor support help participants research, define and launch their businesses and generate income.

• Networking & Mentoring: Participants network with like-minded individuals and build connections with each other, forming small groups for peer support. Each group is sup­ported by a Rise business advisor and mentor with real world business experience. Your peers, advisor and mentor help you meet the challenges of running your own business.

• Financing: Participants gain access to low-interest startup business loans of up to $1500 through Rise.

Locations

The PSSP is currently being offered in 2 locations, Toronto and Mississauga. The Toronto program runs at least once a year in the fall and the Mississauga program runs at least once a year in the spring.

Toronto Location:

• University of Toronto’s Joseph L. Rotman School of Management; 105 St. George Street, Toronto (a 5 minute walk south from Bloor subway line).
• Contact Carla Kendall, [email protected]  416-978-5498

Mississauga Location:

• Sheridan College
• Contact Kiran Moid, [email protected]  647-830-8425