Ontario Boosting Training for Racialized and Indigenous Entrepreneurs
September 10, 2025Cornwall Ontario — The Ontario government is investing $5 million to provide free business development training, coaching, networking support – along with a $10,000 grant – to racialized and Indigenous entrepreneurs.
The 2025-26 Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs (RAISE) program will help more than 400 entrepreneurs get the resources they need to transform innovative ideas into successful businesses, creating local jobs and long-term economic growth.
“At a time of economic uncertainty, our government is protecting the next generation of entrepreneurs, ensuring they get the financial and technical support they need to bring made-in-Ontario businesses to life,” said Graham McGregor, Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism. “Since launching in 2022, the RAISE program is part of our plan to empower racialized and Indigenous leaders to reach their potential, make a difference in their community and fuel our economy in the process.”
Intake Now Open
Applications are now open for the 2025-26 RAISE program, where participants will receive free online business development training from DMZ at Toronto Metropolitan University — one of Canada’s leading business incubators — and a one-time grant of $10,000 upon successful completion. Funding is part of the government’s $15 million investment over three years to ensure entrepreneurs and small business owners have the necessary training and support needed to launch and grow their businesses across the province.
Interested entrepreneurs can learn more at Ontario.ca/RAISE and submit applications until October 1, 2025.
Additional support for entrepreneurs is available through the Cornwall SDG Business Enterprise Centre.
Quick Facts
- Ontario launched the RAISE program in 2022 with an initial investment of $5 million to support over 400 entrepreneurs.
- To be eligible for the RAISE program, businesses must be registered/incorporated, based in Ontario and owned by an Indigenous, Black or other racialized individual.
- Black youth and professionals can receive further support through the Black Youth Action Plan (BYAP)’s Economic Empowerment stream, which focuses on career development, entrepreneurship and employment support.
About the Cornwall SDG Business Enterprise Centre
The Cornwall SDG Business Enterprise Centre is dedicated to supporting and promoting entrepreneurship in Cornwall, the United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry and Akwesasne. Funded by the Province of Ontario as part of the 54 Small Business Enterprise Centres across the province, the Centre provides resources, mentorship, and guidance to new and existing entrepreneurs, helping them grow into successful businesses.
The Cornwall Business Enterprise Centre is located at 100 Water Street East (Cornwall Civic Complex) :