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Entrepreneurs in Sarnia-Lambton interested in a shot at grant money have about two months to get ready to apply.
Published Apr 15, 2026 • Last updated 3 hours ago • 2 minute read
Alison Minato with the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership’s Business Enterprise Centre. (File photo)Article content
Sarnia-Lambton entrepreneurs interested in a shot at grant money, and tips and training to start or grow their small businesses, have about two months to get ready to apply.
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But don’t wait, said Business Enterprise Centre manager Alison Minato.
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The centre, a joint venture of the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership, Lambton County and Ontario, provides free business advice to local entrepreneurs and business owners.
Applicants to its annual Starter Company Plus program need to present business plans for a shot at up to $5,000, six months of workshops and tailored expert coaching, Minato said.
Applications will be accepted from June 15 to July 15. For details and application criteria, visit sarnialambton.on.ca/starter-company.
There were about 30 applicants in 2025 for 10 spots, and another 10 are available in 2026, thanks to $50,000 in provincial grant funding, Minato said.
“It is a competitive process,” she said.
The Business Enterprise Centre year-round offers free help with crafting business plans, marketing and other entrepreneurship questions, Minato said.
Some other Ontario centres offering Starter Company Plus spots don’t offer business plan help up front, she said. “We do it before so that people can submit a stronger application.”
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Winning a Starter Company Plus spot offers multiple benefits, she said. “The financial component is significant (but so is) the ability to meet with other small, growing businesses and learn from each and build that small business network.”
The program also can be a confidence booster once people see how their business plans stack up, she said.
“And then there’s the actual technical learning that we do bring in,” she added. “Local experts in different subject areas for people just to build their knowledge.”
The program supports small business development, job creation, and local economic growth, a release said.
“Entrepreneurship plays an important role in building a resilient economy,” said Matthew Slotwinski, chief executive of the economic partnership.
“Starter Company Plus provides practical support at important stages of business development and growth,” said, adding: “The program offers focused training, mentorship, financial assistance, and helps entrepreneurs make informed decisions to establish and pursue a strong path to succeed in Sarnia-Lambton.”
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