The Stratford Perth Centre for Business is now accepting applications for the next round of the Starter Company Plus Arts and Culture Program.
This round of the program will start January 12, 2027. The program is run by the Stratford Perth Centre for Business, which operates as the region's Ontario Small Business Advisory Centre in partnership with the Government of Ontario. The program is "designed to help artists, creators, and culture-based entrepreneurs across Stratford, St. Marys, and Perth County transform their ideas into thriving small businesses," Stratford Perth Centre for Business and investStratford said in a statement.
Applicants from a wide range of creative industries are encouraged to apply. That includes visual and performing arts, design, carpentry, food creation, tourism, and other culture-driven ventures.
Successful applicants will receive a $5,000 grant to help support business growth, while also receiving business training and one-on-one coaching. Applications are open until noon on November 20, 2026 and due to strong demand and limited spaces, early application is encouraged.
Applicants who are chosen must attend the mandatory five training sessions:
Monday, January 11 (in person) – 7–9 p.m.
Monday, January 25 (virtual) – 7–9 p.m.
Monday, February 8 (virtual) – 7–9 p.m.
Monday, February 22 (virtual) – 7–9 p.m.
Monday, March 8 (in person) – 7–9 p.m.
To learn more or apply, visit https://www.stratfordperthbusiness.ca/starter-company-plus.
"Starter Company Plus – Arts & Culture gives local creatives the tools to build a sustainable business doing what they love," said Holly Mortimer, business advisor at the Stratford Perth Centre for Business. "And they don’t do it alone. The support they give each other is what makes this program work."
