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Ontario Government Boosting Support for Entrepreneurs, Creating Jobs

May 15, 2013 3:10 p.m.     |     Ministry of Research and Innovation

Ontario is making it easier for people to start and grow successful businesses by streamlining and improving its business support services.

The new Ontario Network of Entrepreneurs  is a one-stop shop for anyone involved in planning, launching or building a company — whether it’s a main street retailer, a high-tech start-up, or a growing manufacturer.The network’s new website will connect entrepreneurs across the province to advisors in their communities, who can help with everything from writing a business plan to developing a strategy to export products. Experts can also help researchers and high-tech entrepreneurs bring their discoveries to market, launch new companies and create jobs.The Ontario Network of Entrepreneurs is part of the new government’s plan to help innovators succeed and build a prosperous and fair province.

Quick Facts

  • Since 2007, Ontario’s three advisory networks helped launch and grow close to 72,500 companies, and helped create or retain almost 200,000 jobs.
  • The new network will give entrepreneurs access to business advisors, strategists and market analysts in 86 offices across Ontario.
  • Ontario has invested $3.6 billion in research and innovation across the province since 2003.
  • The 2013 Ontario Budget proposes to establish a Youth Jobs Strategy of $295 million over two years to create jobs and mentorship opportunities for about 30,000 youth and promote entrepreneurship and innovation.
  • The government is holding consultations on the Youth Jobs Strategy across the province throughout May.

Quotes

 “Our government understands that entrepreneurs are a key part of Ontario’s economic future. That’s why we want to foster a culture of entrepreneurship that will equip people with mentors and other key supports to get their dreams off the ground.”

Reza Moridi
Minister of Research and Innovation

 

“MaRS and the Investment Accelerator Fund have been instrumental in helping Gridcentric unlock the power of its incredible technology. From day one, they’ve helped match Gridcentric’s innovation with the research support, advisory services and connections to capital and talent necessary to help turn Gridcentric from a University of Toronto research project into a thriving software company with enormous potential.”

Eric Shefler
CEO, Gridcentric, Inc.

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