Searching for Self-employment / Entrepreneurship

COVID-19: The City's Economic Development and Tourism Services team has recently launched loveSTC, a new website aimed at providing residents and visitors with information around local businesses, events, culinary and craft beverage experiences, outdoor recreation, culture and heritage. Consumers can visit www.lovestc.ca and either browse by season, activity or business. The list of businesses continues to grow, and new additions are welcome. Businesses can enroll by completing a submission via the website.


Site Selection Assistance: advertise the locational advantages of St. Catharines and assist investors in relocating.

Business Expansion/Retention Assistance: A corporate calling program that provides a means of communicating with the business community in identifying urgent business issues and opportunities and establish initiatives to support business growth.

Information Service: provides various information products about St Catharines to potential investors, local businesses, tourists and other interested parties.

Tourism Information Assistance: offers an array of support and advice to many attractions, festivals, events, shopping, tours, dining and accommodations, assists in conference, sporting events location planning and group visits.

Relocation Information: provides relocation packages and visitor information.

Comprehensive employment and job search services

• assessment of skills, interests and experience
• job search strategies, including resume preparation
• information about careers and occupations, local labour market, employment and training opportunities
• on-the-job training, work experience, help in maintaining employment as well as information and referral to other employment and community services

Better Jobs Ontario
Skills training and financial support for laid-off workers

• training program must demonstrate good job prospects
• financial support based on need, may include tuition, instructional costs, books, transportation and/or a basic living allowance

Services for employers

• help in identifying human resource skills requirements, matching of workplace needs to workers' skills, capabilities, interests and experience
• support for developing on-the-job training plans and monitoring of placements to support retention

Canada-Ontario Job Grant

• financial support for individual employers to purchase training for their employees
• available to small, medium and large businesses planning to deliver short-term training for existing or new employees

The centre provides the information, resources and tools that Niagara's entrepreneurs need to launch and grow their small businesses. The office is a part of the City of St. Catharines Economic Development Department and is a member of a network of Small Business Enterprise Centres supported by the Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation, and Trade.

The office provides information and advisory services through two types of services. For entrepreneurs seeking general information around licensing, taxation, accounting and recordkeeping, sales and marketing, and business planning, the office offers a number of free seminars throughout the month to cover the basics about these topics. There is no cost to attend, but advanced registration is required. See www.stcatharines.ca/seminars.

For entrepreneurs with specific questions, or those who are in need of advice on specific areas of their business including business plan review services, market research assistance, specific licensing and permit requirements, small business financing options, etc., the office is able to provide clients with a 1 hour one-to-one consultation with an advisor free of charge. It is best to phone or email the office to schedule an appointment time.

The office is also the delivery agent for the Province's programs supporting young entrepreneurs. Summer Company - a program where students returning to school full-time in the fall may be eligible to receive a $3,000 grant to start their own summer business; and Starter Company Plus - a program for adults starting a full time business, to get mentoring, business training and the potential to apply for a grant of up to $5,000.

The office also runs a number of specialized workshops and training sessions throughout the year, including networking and training events for businesses. Participants attend roundtable discussions on a variety of small business issues, hear from a successful entrepreneur and enjoy the expertise of a keynote speaker all while networking with others in the business community.

Devoted to helping farmers and agribusiness operators grow, diversify and prosper. Offers a range of flexible financing products and business services to support primary producers and value-added agribusinesses beyond the farm gate. Many products and services are delivered through alliances with industry partners.

COVID-19: Business centres are currently closed and services are available by phone and online.

A consulting service providing counselling with expertise in all areas of business management. Financing for businesses is also available.

Comprehensive employment and job search services

• assessment of skills, interests and experience
• job search strategies, including resume preparation
• information about careers and occupations, local labour market, employment and training opportunities
• on-the-job training, work experience, help in maintaining employment as well as information and referral to other employment and community services

Better Jobs Ontario
Skills training and financial support for laid-off workers

• training program must demonstrate good job prospects
• financial support based on need, may include tuition, instructional costs, books, transportation and/or a basic living allowance

Services for employers

• help in identifying human resource skills requirements, matching of workplace needs to workers' skills, capabilities, interests and experience
• support for developing on-the-job training plans and monitoring of placements to support retention

Canada-Ontario Job Grant

• financial support for individual employers to purchase training for their employees
• available to small, medium and large businesses planning to deliver short-term training for existing or new employees

Consultants provide a high degree of professionalism and a range of business experience to help an individual cost-effectively solve business-related problems. Employs top students from the Goodman School of Business.

Through direct consultant experience, or with the support of faculty experts, Goodman MBA Consulting can assist an individual with a variety of business projects:

• Marketing and marketing research
• Survey research: mail, telephone, and personal interviews
• Secondary research, focus groups
• Marketing plans
• Industry and market analysis
• Communication plans
• Competitive analysis
• Personal selling, sales
• Promotion, telemarketing
• Human resources
• Training programs and manuals
• Compensation programs
• Financial services
• Budgeting and financial planning
• Business Plans, strategy reviews, growth strategies

COVID-19: New OpenInNiagara online business directory available. The new tool allows businesses from all Niagara municipalities, in all sectors, to promote and advertise their location, contact information, and details on modified business practices, such as curbside pickup or delivery. The map-based tool then allows Niagara consumers to easily find and connect with those businesses.

Site selection assistance for business clients expanding within or relocating to the Niagara region. Provides cost-effective services to attract investment and visitation; delivers economic and tourism information and facilitates decision making among partners in a bi-national region.

INVESTMENT MARKETING that provides consultation and referral to appropriate local businesses, government officials, potential investors, and other sources for further assistance, statistical and market data on Niagara's economy including industrial land and building information, economic indicators, manufacturing/service business contacts and human resource/training support, as well as business assistance information and support for Niagara companies who are developing new export markets.

A Community Futures Development Corporation that assists in community development and the financing of businesses and creation of employment. To assist businesses, services and events organized by Venture Niagara can include:

• Seminars and workshops
• Business advisory services
• Business information and referrals
• Assistance with business plans
• Information on relevant federal and provincial programs and services
• Business Loans

Comprehensive employment and job search services

• assessment of skills, interests and experience
• job search strategies, including resume preparation
• information about careers and occupations, local labour market, employment and training opportunities
• on-the-job training, work experience, help in maintaining employment as well as information and referral to other employment and community services

Better Jobs Ontario
Skills training and financial support for laid-off workers

• training program must demonstrate good job prospects
• financial support based on need, may include tuition, instructional costs, books, transportation and/or a basic living allowance

Services for employers

• help in identifying human resource skills requirements, matching of workplace needs to workers' skills, capabilities, interests and experience
• support for developing on-the-job training plans and monitoring of placements to support retention

Canada-Ontario Job Grant

• financial support for individual employers to purchase training for their employees
• available to small, medium and large businesses planning to deliver short-term training for existing or new employees

Comprehensive employment and job search services

• assessment of skills, interests and experience
• job search strategies, including resume preparation
• information about careers and occupations, local labour market, employment and training opportunities
• on-the-job training, work experience, help in maintaining employment as well as information and referral to other employment and community services

Better Jobs Ontario
Skills training and financial support for laid-off workers

• training program must demonstrate good job prospects
• financial support based on need, may include tuition, instructional costs, books, transportation and/or a basic living allowance

Services for employers

• help in identifying human resource skills requirements, matching of workplace needs to workers' skills, capabilities, interests and experience
• support for developing on-the-job training plans and monitoring of placements to support retention

Canada-Ontario Job Grant

• financial support for individual employers to purchase training for their employees
• available to small, medium and large businesses planning to deliver short-term training for existing or new employees

Provides access to Ministry programs, services and resources.

Specialists available for information about pest/disease control for production of fruit, vegetables and greenhouse flowers by appointment only.

Do not handle home garden calls and no longer have a home economist on staff. Home garden and fruit tree calls are referred to the Master Gardener Hotline at 905-646-2818. Call the OMAFRA toll free line 1-877-424-1300 for answers to general questions. Visit website at www.omafra.gov.on.ca for more information.

Comprehensive employment and job search services

• assessment of skills, interests and experience
• job search strategies, including resume preparation
• information about careers and occupations, local labour market, employment and training opportunities
• on-the-job training, work experience, help in maintaining employment as well as information and referral to other employment and community services

Better Jobs Ontario
Skills training and financial support for laid off workers

• training program must demonstrate good job prospects
• financial support based on need, may include tuition, instructional costs, books, transportation and/or a basic living allowance

Services for employers

• help in identifying human resource skills requirements, matching of workplace needs to workers' skills, capabilities, interests and experience
• support for developing on-the-job training plans and monitoring of placements to support retention

Provides information and advice on starting or growing a small business.

The office provides free and confidential consultations (by appointment) to discuss business and assist clients in the development of their business plans. Can guide clients through any registration/licensing requirements and help answer any business related questions.

Runs a variety of events and seminars geared towards both new start-up businesses as well as existing businesses.

A program provider for the Ontario Summer Company and Starter Company PLUS programs; as well as a community partner of the Futurpreneur program.

The business development arm for the City of Niagara Falls. The Division is committed to promoting Niagara Falls as an outstanding location to conduct business. A facilitator between the private sector and various levels of government, the Division provides an effective resource centre where businesses may find support and assistance.

Comprehensive employment and job search services

• assessment of skills, interests and experience
• job search strategies, including resume preparation
• information about careers and occupations, local labour market, employment and training opportunities
• on-the-job training, work experience, help in maintaining employment as well as information and referral to other employment and community services

Better Jobs Ontario
Skills training and financial support for laid-off workers

• training program must demonstrate good job prospects
• financial support based on need, may include tuition, instructional costs, books, transportation and/or a basic living allowance

Services for employers

• help in identifying human resource skills requirements, matching of workplace needs to workers' skills, capabilities, interests and experience
• support for developing on-the-job training plans and monitoring of placements to support retention

Canada-Ontario Job Grant

• financial support for individual employers to purchase training for their employees
• available to small, medium and large businesses planning to deliver short-term training for existing or new employees

Comprehensive employment and job search services

• assessment of skills, interests and experience
• job search strategies, including resume preparation
• information about careers and occupations, local labour market, employment and training opportunities
• on-the-job training, work experience, help in maintaining employment as well as information and referral to other employment and community services

Better Jobs Ontario
Skills training and financial support for laid-off workers

• training program must demonstrate good job prospects
• financial support based on need, may include tuition, instructional costs, books, transportation and/or a basic living allowance

Services for employers

• help in identifying human resource skills requirements, matching of workplace needs to workers' skills, capabilities, interests and experience
• support for developing on-the-job training plans and monitoring of placements to support retention

Canada-Ontario Job Grant

• financial support for individual employers to purchase training for their employees
• available to small, medium and large businesses planning to deliver short-term training for existing or new employees

Employment resources and coaching to find sustainable employment in Ontario:

• assessment of skills, interests and abilities
• job search strategies and support, including resume development and interview preparation
• information about careers and occupations, local labour market, employment opportunities
• help in maintaining employment
• information and referral to other employment and community services

All services at this site can be tailored to meet the need of individual client groups including: Indigenous peoples, Older workers, Businesses, Persons with disabilities, Persons on social assistance, Immigrants/newcomers, Students, Women and Youth.

Better Jobs Ontario -- skills training and financial support for laid-off workers

Services for employers -- help in identifying human resource skills requirements

• matching of workplace needs to workers' skills, capabilities, interests and experience
• support for developing on-the-job training plans and monitoring of placements to support retention

Canada-Ontario Job Grant -- financial support for individual employers to purchase training for their employees

• available to small, medium and large businesses planning to deliver short-term training for existing or new employees

Provides full property management services to all types of housing providers including non-profits and co-ops.

Services include:

• PRGI management
• On and off site administration
• Bookkeeping
• Accounting
• Handyman services
• Janitorial services
• Unit inspections

Comprehensive employment and job search services

• assessment of skills, interests and experience
• job search strategies, including resume preparation
• information about careers and occupations, local labour market, employment and training opportunities
• on-the-job training, work experience, help in maintaining employment as well as information and referral to other employment and community services

Better Jobs Ontario
Skills training and financial support for laid-off workers

• training program must demonstrate good job prospects
• financial support based on need, may include tuition, instructional costs, books, transportation and/or a basic living allowance

Services for employers

• help in identifying human resource skills requirements, matching of workplace needs to workers' skills, capabilities, interests and experience
• support for developing on-the-job training plans and monitoring of placements to support retention

Canada-Ontario Job Grant

• financial support for individual employers to purchase training for their employees
• available to small, medium and large businesses planning to deliver short-term training for existing or new employees

Comprehensive employment and job search services

• assessment of skills, interests and experience
• job search strategies, including resume preparation
• information about careers and occupations, local labour market, employment and training opportunities
• on-the-job training, work experience, help in maintaining employment as well as information and referral to other employment and community services

Better Jobs Ontario
Skills training and financial support for laid-off workers

• training program must demonstrate good job prospects
• financial support based on need, may include tuition, instructional costs, books, transportation and/or a basic living allowance

Services for employers

• help in identifying human resource skills requirements, matching of workplace needs to workers' skills, capabilities, interests and experience
• support for developing on-the-job training plans and monitoring of placements to support retention

Canada-Ontario Job Grant

• financial support for individual employers to purchase training for their employees
• available to small, medium and large businesses planning to deliver short-term training for existing or new employees

Employment resources and coaching to find sustainable employment in Ontario:

• assessment of skills, interests and abilities
• job search strategies and support, including resume development and interview preparation
• information about careers and occupations, local labour market, employment opportunities
• help in maintaining employment
• information and referral to other employment and community services

All services at this site can be tailored to meet the need of individual client groups including: Indigenous peoples, Older workers, Businesses, Persons with disabilities, Persons on social assistance, Immigrants/newcomers, Students, Women and Youth.

Better Jobs Ontario -- skills training and financial support for laid-off workers

Services for employers -- help in identifying human resource skills requirements

• matching of workplace needs to workers' skills, capabilities, interests and experience
• support for developing on-the-job training plans and monitoring of placements to support retention

Canada-Ontario Job Grant -- financial support for individual employers to purchase training for their employees

• available to small, medium and large businesses planning to deliver short-term training for existing or new employees

Employment resources and coaching to find sustainable employment in Ontario:

• assessment of skills, interests and abilities
• job search strategies and support, including resume development and interview preparation
• information about careers and occupations, local labour market, employment opportunities
• help in maintaining employment
• information and referral to other employment and community services

All services at this site can be tailored to meet the need of individual client groups including: Indigenous peoples, Older workers, Businesses, Persons with disabilities, Persons on social assistance, Immigrants/newcomers, Students, Women and Youth.

Better Jobs Ontario -- skills training and financial support for laid-off workers

Services for employers -- help in identifying human resource skills requirements

• matching of workplace needs to workers' skills, capabilities, interests and experience
• support for developing on-the-job training plans and monitoring of placements to support retention

Canada-Ontario Job Grant -- financial support for individual employers to purchase training for their employees

• available to small, medium and large businesses planning to deliver short-term training for existing or new employees

Invests loan and equity capital in existing, emerging, innovative and start up enterprises in Niagara. The Fund is available to qualifying applicants in virtually every sector of the economy. Invests in people with good ideas who can create jobs, economic impact and contribute to the growth of Niagara. An exclusive capital access program of the South Niagara Community Futures Development Corporation.

Assists companies and entrepreneurs with locating or expanding in the municipality. Also assists businesses in expanding their market base, identifying available properties, and in accessing research, development, and capital funding. Staff also acts as a liaison between the business community and government offices and departments.

Prepares the annual Port Colborne Visitor's Guide, and operates the Visitor Information Centre. Also coordinates tourism marketing for the City, and acts as a liaison between the City and local tourism operations. Staff works to promote Port Colborne as a tourism destination and the City's travel councillors help visitors plan their trips to Port Colborne.

The Humberstone Hall Visitor Information Center, located at 76 Main Street West is open year-round and can be reached at 1-888-PORT-FUN (1-888-767-8386).

Services offered by the Economic Development division include:

• Confidential Tours and Site Selection Analysis for Business Clients
• Statistical and Market Data on Port Colborne's Economy
• Manufacturing/Service Business Contacts
• Industrial Land and Building Space Listings
• Advice on Government Programs
• Referral service to other organizations and agencies