Funded Programs

The Niagara College Business Development Centre is a delivery agent for the following two government funded, self employment programs:

• Ontario Self Employment Benefit Program (OSEB)
• Ontario Self Employment Development Program (OSED)

Both programs require a referral to begin the application process:

• OSEB > from an Employment Service Counselor
• OSED > from your Case Worker

Both programs are designed to help individuals going through career or unemployment transition, who have a viable business idea and marketable skills put them to use through self employment and get their careers back on track.

Overview of the OSEB Program

Determining your OSEB Eligibility

To be eligible for this program you must:

• Be eligible for, or in receipt of, Employment Insurance benefits, or
• Have received Employment Insurance benefits within the last 36 months (3 years), or
• Have received maternity or parental benefits within the last 60 months (5 years)

You are NOT eligible if:

• You are currently working
• You have already started your business
• You have a professional designation

Where Do You Live?

The Niagara College Business Development Centre delivers the OSEB program to residents of the following areas in the Niagara Region:

• Beamsville
• Grimsby
• Jordan
• Niagara-on-the-Lake
• Niagara Falls
• St. Ann's
• St. Catharines
• Thorold
• Vineland

OSEB Information Sessions 

The first step in finding out if you're eligible and qualify for this Program is to attend one of our free monthly Information Sessions held every second Friday at 11:15 am at Niagara College, One St. Paul Street, Unit 5, St. Catharines, ON. Seating is limited and you must register in advance to attend.

At the session you'll be provided with detailed information about what the program involves and the eligibility requirements, and you'll have the opportunity to ask questions specific to your own situation.

Note: If you're on Social Assistance and interested in self employment, you may be eligible for the OSED (Ontario Self Employment Development Program) through Ontario Works. Speak to your Case Worker about a referral.

In Ontario the Self-Employment Benefit Program is funded through and overseen by Employment Ontario. If you qualify, this program gives you the opportunity to start your own business and receive income support as determined by the Employment and Training Division of the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. You'll also receive the expert training and guidance in setting up your business that plays a large role in your long-term business success.

About the OSEB Program

• Five days of Business Basics skill development
• Assistance and guidance in developing your Business Plan
• Ongoing mentoring and consulting services from business experts
• Access to resources and information for market research
• On-going seminars and workshops
• Opportunities to network and make valuable contacts

• Our Advisors come from real-world business backgrounds, and a number of them are Certified International Business Counsellors under the APEC-IBIZ program. Their knowledge, business counselling and mentoring skills are unmatched.
• Our Business Basics Program. Business Basics provides you with the knowledge and skills that you need to operate a successful small business. View details on how the Business Basics program will help you succeed.
• Our Ongoing Mentoring And Counselling. Business Advisors meet with each client on a monthly basis for one full year, providing business advice, coaching, guidance and support.
• Additional Support in areas such as legal, financial and marketing. Business Advisors or Consultants who have expertise in those fields are available to assist your particular needs.