Enterprise Renfrew County is excited to announce the recipients of the Starter Company Plus Autumn 2024 grants, totaling $38,000. This program, designed to support local entrepreneurs, provides mentoring, training, and business plan development over three months. At the end of the program, participants have the chance to pitch their business plans for a grant of up to $5,000 to help grow their businesses.
The 13 grant recipients from the Autumn 2024 session have worked hard to develop their business, marketing, and financial plans. These entrepreneurs come from various towns and regions across Renfrew County and include Tyler Cormack of BSure Home Services in Pembroke, Patricia Daly of Devine Philautia Crystals in Whitewater Region, Jennifer Daniels of Corvus Financial Consulting Inc. in Renfrew, Scott Fawcett of Ottawa Valley Air Paddle in Arnprior, Jessica Gibson of Handmade Herbology in Killaloe, Samantha MacFarlane of Ottawa Valley Wellness in Whitewater Region, Laura McKay of Laura Ashley Medical Aesthetics in Deep River, Deidre Myler of Fresh Start by Deidre in Petawawa, and Tammara Smith of Be Empowered in Pembroke.
The Starter Company Plus program provides entrepreneurs with valuable tools, including business plan development and cash flow projections, while offering guidance from experienced trainers. At the end of the program, participants pitch their business plans for a chance to win grant funding to support their business operations.
Laura McKay, owner of Laura Ashley Medical Aesthetics, shared her thoughts on the program, stating that it provided the clarity she needed to move forward with her business goals. “As someone new to entrepreneurship, the program helped me better understand business and finances,” McKay said. “It gave me the confidence to take the next steps, and I’m excited for the future of my business.”
Jessica Gibson, owner of Handmade Herbology, echoed McKay’s sentiments, praising the program for its structured approach. “The resources and support from the program helped me develop a comprehensive business plan and cash flow projections,” Gibson said. “Thanks to the program, my business is ready to expand to a storefront location. I highly recommend Starter Company Plus to any entrepreneur seeking clear, step-by-step guidance.”
The next session of Starter Company Plus will take place in Spring 2025. Entrepreneurs interested in joining can visit www.enterpriserenfrewcounty.com/starter-company-plus for more information and to sign up for an upcoming information session.
For personalized business advice, entrepreneurs can contact Heather Inwood-Montrose, Small Business Advisor, at Hinwoodmontrose@countyofrenfrew.on.ca. Enterprise Renfrew County continues to support local businesses and help entrepreneurs thrive in the region.
(Written by: Emma Butler)
