The Prescott and Russell Entrepreneurship Centre (PREC) is bringing back its Starter Company Plus (SCP) program to help small- and medium-sized businesses in the region. The SCP provides financial assistance, advice, and also training and mentoring service for local business owners.
“Over the past few years, we have witnessed the startup and growth of many great businesses with the help of this program,” stated Lisa Langevin. PREC project officer. The program becomes active in October but interested individuals can contact the PREC now to get information and file applications for help.
The goal of the program is to help start new small- and medium-sized businesses in the region, help existing ones to grow, or assist individuals who want to buy an existing business that is available for purchase. The PREC also partner with business coaches from the Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, to provide virtual seminars that offer advice and other business development tools, including developing a business plan, to local entrepreneurs.
The current pandemic situation has resulted in changes to the SCP program compared to last year. This year the local program can offer grants up to $2500 to a maximum of 13 applicants. The money is available to new or current owners or small- or medium-sized businesses and can go towards equipment purchases, website development, or other expenses related to either starting or expanding a business.
“The PREC always tries to adjust to the needs of the entrepreneurial community,” stated Langevin, “and this is the case with this program this year. Our vision is to lead entrepreneurs in economic recovery.”
