A program designed to support and empower newcomers to Canada who are eager to start or grow a business within the city of North Bay.

Program Description

The Newcomer Entrepreneurship Program (NEP) is brought to you by The City of North Bay delivered in partnership with The Business Centre Nipissing Parry Sound. NEP is designed to support and empower newcomers to Canada who are eager to start or grow a business within the city of North Bay. This program provides participants with the essential resources, mentorship and guidance needed to support their entrepreneurial journey.

NEP consists of 8 training sessions designed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the Canadian business environment. Training includes expert advice, business planning support, leadership with effective communication, management, financial considerations, mentorship, marketing strategies and human resources. The program will conclude with a community engagement session, encouraging networking and knowledge sharing among participants.

Minimum Requirements

To participate in the Newcomer Entrepreneurship Program, you must meet the following criteria:

• Applicants must be newcomers to Canada, having arrived within the last 5 years.

• Applicants must have a strong intent to start or grow a business within the City of North Bay.

• Applicants must have a legal status in Canada as either a Temporary Resident (Student Visa or Work Permit), a Permanent Resident, or a naturalized Canadian Citizen.

• Participants must be at least 18 years old.

• Basic proficiency in English is required to ensure effective participation in the program.

• Participants must commit to attending sessions and the community activity in-person

• The intended business must follow government rules and regulations for operating a legal business and be in compliance with all applicable laws.

Non Eligible Businesses:

• Commissioned sales

• Multi-level marketing ventures

• Businesses that derive their revenue from streaming services or affiliate marketing

• Businesses incorporating or selling investment vehicles, property investment (flipping), and/or short-term rental investment

• Not-for-profit or charitable enterprises

• The Business Centre may also, at its sole discretion, determine a particular business is inappropriate for the program

Additional Information

Applicants who are deemed potentially eligible will be invited to consult with the Program Coordinator to ensure availability, verify their eligibility, and understand program requirements.

The Newcomer Entrepreneurship program welcomes all eligible individuals. It is specifically designed to provide training and mentorship to those who require business knowledge and support. Due to limited capacity, not all eligible applicants may be accepted into the program.

Free Training Sessions

8 sessions covering business planning, leadership, financial considerations, marketing, and human resources at no cost.

Networking Opportunities

Community engagement session for networking and knowledge sharing among participants.

Program Highlights

Receive guidance from experts to navigate the Canadian business environment.

Essential resources, mentorship, and guidance to start or grow a business.

Comprehensive Support

Expert Advice and Mentorship

Program made possible thanks to:

The City of North Bay

This project is funded in part by the Ontario Government.

Apply today

Please complete the application form in the link below to submit your interest in the Newcomer Entrepreneurship Program.

Download Program Summary

Download a one page summary of the Newcomer Entrepreneurship Program to print or share with a friend.