Starting a Business is Scary — But You Don’t Have to Do It Alone by Sarah Noble, Manager of Marketing & Communications, for the St. Thomas Economic Development Starting a business is an exciting but sometimes overwhelming journey. The fear of the unknown, the pressure to succeed, and the sheer volume of decisions to make can feel daunting. But here’s the good news — you don’t have to do it alone. Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy, and we want to see businesses of all sizes thrive in St. Thomas and Elgin County. Whether launching a new venture or scaling an existing one, resources and a community are ready to support you, every step. One of the best resources available to local entrepreneurs is the Elgin/St. Thomas Small Business Enterprise Centre (SBEC). We support small business owners by providing expert guidance, resources, and practical tools to navigate the world of entrepreneurship. Whether you’re refining a business plan, looking for funding opportunities, or simply needing a trusted advisor to help you strategize, SBEC is here to help. Personalized Support for Entrepreneurs SBEC’s standout service is personalized consultation. Our experienced business advisors provide one-on-one support tailored to your specific needs. Whether it’s market research, regulatory requirements, marketing strategies, or financial planning, these advisors bring expert insights and actionable solutions to help you move forward with confidence.
Funding & Mentorship Programs For those looking to take their business to the next level, SBEC provides funding opportunities through programs like Starter Company Plus. This program is for entrepreneurs 18 and older working full-time in their businesses. It offers six months of training, mentorship, and the opportunity to access up to $5,000 in grants to help grow or expand a business. For younger entrepreneurs, the Summer Company program is an excellent opportunity. Open to youth aged 15-29 who will be returning to school in the fall, this program provides mentorship, training, and up to $3,000 in grants to help offset the costs of starting a summer business. A Community That Understands Your Journey One of the most valuable things SBEC provides is a supportive community. Entrepreneurship can be isolating, and friends and family may not always understand your unique challenges. Having an experienced business advisor to bounce ideas off of and gain new perspectives from can be incredibly beneficial. The SBEC team consists of experienced entrepreneurs who understand the ups and downs of small business ownership and are committed to helping you succeed. The truth is, starting and growing a business is not a journey you have to take alone. There are resources, mentors, and a network of fellow entrepreneurs to support you. Investing in your growth, taking advantage of available programs, and connecting with the right people can make all the difference in your success. Your dreams are within reach, and we’re here to help you achieve them!
Saturdays Winter at Horton | Until April 26 9AM-1PM
Maple Fest! | April 26 9AM-1PM
Main Season | May 10-Nov 1 8AM-Noon
hortonfarmersmarket.ca bringing the farm to the heart of the City since 1878
10 Manitoba St. | St. Thomas
Hometown St. Thomas • March 2025 • Page 27
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