Peterborough Economic Development Launches Pilot Program to Support Entrepreneurs Over 30

Peterborough Economic Development is pleased to announce the launch of the B.L.A.S.T. program, a new pilot program aimed at providing local skilled trades and professional service entrepreneurs over 30 with the assistance, support and training needed for business success.

The B.L.A.S.T. (Business Launch Assistance, Support and Training) program, is designed to provide business training to 25 entrepreneurs to launch a business or expand an existing business. Training will focus on business planning fundamentals including financial literacy, operations, market research and more. This program is supported in part by the Government of Ontario.

Upon completion of the program, participants have the opportunity to submit their business plan, to apply for a spot in the “Top 16 of 2016” – an opportunity to receive one of 16 micro-grants of $5000 and be connected with a mentor from the local business community.

“The Peterborough region is home to a number of skilled professionals who have experienced success by creating innovative and creative products and services.” said Elizabeth Teleki, Peterborough Economic Development’s Business Advisory Centre Lead. “At the Peterborough Business Advisory Centre we are proud to provide support to entrepreneurs of every age at every stage of business growth. Currently, there are many programs that exist for youth; the B.L.A.S.T. program was created to support adults over 30 on their path to entrepreneurial success.”

The deadline to register for the B.L.A.S.T. pilot program is February 28, 2016.