The Leeds and Grenville Small Business Enterprise Centre has announced a third round for more participants in the Starter Company. It provides mentoring, training and capital funding for youth 18 to 29 years of age to start, grow or buy a business. The objective is for young people to build strong, local businesses.
There are 11 spots for young entrepreneurs interested in entering the program with grants of up to $5,000.
"My long-term vision wouldn't have been realized (without the program)," says Austin Bank, owner of AB Energy Systems, a company providing energy efficient solutions and energy management services. The Elizabethtown-Kitley-based business is attracting customers, including a B.C resort.
"They (Starter Company) helped me realize the potential of this," adds Austin. The business offers complete automotion systems and alternatives to the utility grid. "People are amazed when I show them the technology," he says.
Madelyn Piehl, a licensed funeral director with a Class-1 Transfer Service license, is owner of Eternal Care Cremation. Also in Elizabethtown-Kitley, Eternal Care provides simple funeral service alternatives where the focus is on the celebration of life. Services include transportation of loved ones to and from the crematorium, after care and estate closure.
"I've personally experienced a spike in service calls. The Starter Company networking aspect is amazing" says Madelyn. Brandon Popkie, owner of Popkie Lawn Care in Mallorytown agrees. "They've helped with the implementation and they've increased my chances of success. I had a fantastic idea but I needed to get it out there."
Tanya Trombetta owns Gananoque's The Creative Nest, a video marketing agency. She has joined Starter Company to help expand her business.
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