Kingston, Ontario – August 9, 2022 – Kingston Economic Development announces 12 entrepreneurs in Kingston are benefitting from training and a micro-grant through the Starter Company Plus program to start and/or grow their business venture. Participants attended a week-long virtual business bootcamp covering topics on market research, digital marketing, small business financing, and hiring practices.
Starter Company Plus is offered through Kingston Economic Development Corporation with funding from the Government of Ontario. All successful applicants to the program receive business training and personalized coaching. Business owners receive up to $5,000 in microgrants based on the strength of their business plans and pitches to a panel of community judges. Each year, Kingston Economic Development provides $70,000 in microgrants to local businesses through the Starter Company Plus program.
“Starter Company Plus has supported many small businesses over the years, creating the space for entrepreneurs to explore and expand on their business ideas while providing the financial support and mentorship needed to help them succeed,” says Rob Tamblyn, Business Development Manager – Small & Medium Enterprises. “As a result of the pandemic, many individuals in the Kingston and surrounding communities have gone into business for themselves and we are proud to be able to offer support and guidance to them at Kingston Economic Development.”
“Thanks to the Starter Company Plus program and business bootcamp, we were able to promote the opening of Curate Social and share our message of building a stronger, more cohesive business community by creating the necessary marketing materials, as well as hiring staff to support the shop,” says Christine Ray-Bratt, Curate Social. “This program is a must for any small businesses – new, existing or growing – for helping entrepreneurs to develop and execute their business plans in a meaningful, supported way.”
Applications for the Fall 2022 cohort are now open until September 11. Successful applicants must attend a mandatory business bootcamp from September 26 – 30 to be eligible to pitch for a microgrant. Visit investkingston.ca/startercompanyplus to apply.
Meet the Starter Company Plus Spring/Summer 2022 recipients:
Crop Circle Gardens by Brent Sindall
Crop Circle Gardens is a sustainable hobby farm producing plants and plant products for local community markets.
The Cozy Company by Brooklyn Benn
The Cozy Company is a Canadian, woman owned clothing brand. Each item is designed for comfort and made to be dressed up or down to suit everyday needs.
Ez Flow Spas by Cameron Gard
Ez Flow Spas is a on-site pool and spa service provider in Kingston and the surrounding area. Specialties include pool heaters, winterizing and pool & spa treatment chemicals available for delivery.
Curate Social by Christine Ray-Bratt
Leading the way in experiential shopping in Kingston, Curate Social is the place to grab a drink, socialize, shop and discover styles and flavours from across Canada and the world.
Little Friday by Ciara Roberts
Little Friday is a full-service video production company that celebrates the small details that makes everyone unique.
Just Poke It Studio by Leela Bruce
Located in the west end of Kingston, Just Poke It Studio is a tattoo and piercing studio specializing in aftercare and locally made jewelry.
The Good Home Company by Kaitlan Dixon
The Good Home Company specializes in hand-poured soy blend candles and linen sprays. All candles are made in small batches.
Doozy Deez by Lindsay Neilsen
Doozy Deez is a doughnut shop owned/operated by a female duo. Home of Kingston’s Surprise Trio Boxes— 3 doughnuts, each with their own unique surprise flavours.
LL Contracting by Matt Benoit
A local Kingston area construction business focusing on custom tile work, full renovations and decks.
The Kingston Driving School by Peeresh Jolly
The Kingston Driving School provides the Ministry of Transportation’s authorized Beginner Driver Education course with home-based E-Learning curriculum.
Tristan Adams & Associates by Tristan Adams
Tristan Adams & Associates is a small Canadian design, construction and restoration company dedicated to the creation and conservation of well-crafted and timeless projects.
Island Yurt by Linda Belisle
Island Yurt is a sacred space to gather for yoga, meditation, retreats, workshops and holistic wellness sessions.
Media Contact
Nour Mazloum
Marketing & Communications Manager
Kingston Economic Development Corporation
613-329-9270
mazloum@investkingston.ca
