January 25, 2010

*Note:  Please be advised that the OSEB program is currently not accepting new applications, as Employment Ontario is reviewing the program, and has stated that there will be no change until at least April 1, 2010. Please be assured that the program has not been stopped and that Employment Ontario and Niagara College will continue to look for ways to help members of our community who have been affected by the current economic situation. Once Ministry officials complete their analysis we will provide you with additional information on how to access the OSEB program. Please continue to check our website for updates on our program as they become available.

The Ontario Self-Employment Benefit (OSEB) Program was originally created by the Government of Canada to provide unemployed individuals who meet certain eligibility requirements with the funding and support to start their own businesses as an alternative to regular employment. The Program, now funded in part by the Government of Ontario, has designated delivery agents in specific territories. These delivery agents provide business support and guidance to approved applicants for the duration of their time on the Program.

If you live in the Niagara Region but are outside the areas listed above, click here for a list of delivery agents in other areas.

If you're on Social Assistance, you may be eligible for similar funding through Ontario Works. Click here for more information.

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 guidance and direction in your first year of business that plays a large role in your long-term business success.

Employment Ontario programs are funded in part by the Government of Canada.

The OSEB program at the Business Development Centre includes:

Ongoing mentoring and consulting services from business experts     Business plan assistance      Access to resources and information for market research      Ongoing seminars and workshops      Opportunities to network and make valuable contacts

The First Steps

The first step in finding out if you're eligible for this Program is to attend one of our free monthly Information Sessions. Information Sessions are held on the 2nd Tuesday of every month at 3pm at Niagara College, Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus.  Seating is limited; 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. You can then fill out the preliminary forms required for us to check your eligibility with Employment Ontario. There are 2 documents you must bring with you: You will need to print out and complete a Business Concept Summary and bring it with you to the  Information Session. Click here for a copy of the form; select "File", then "Print", to print the 2-page form. You will also need to bring a copy of your standard resume. For more information and to register call 905-641-2252 ext. 4456. The Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus is located just off the QEW and Glendale Avenue, at 135 Taylor Road, Niagara-on-the-Lake. Click here for a map of our location.

Advantages of Our Program

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. Click here for 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.

If You Don't Qualify or You Need to Start Quickly

If you're not eligible for Ontario Self-Employment Benefit (OSEB) program funding, or if you have clients lined up and need to get your business going quickly, check out our Start a Business services. We can provide you with the training you need to set up your business, and follow-up mentoring as you begin to operate. Click here to find out more information.

We've helped many clients achieve success in their enterprises. Click here to see their stories.