Projects are intended to assist entrepreneurs, and potential entrepreneurs who require a full and properly developed business, export and/or marketing plan in order to:

• Ensure that all aspects of the business proposal have been considered and properly investigated;
  
• Ensure that they have a clear understanding of all issues and potential problems; and
  
• Raise their potential in gaining access to the required financing in a timely manner.
  

Eligible Activities:
To provide assistance to private sector for-profit businesses that require assistance in the research, development and finalization of their business, export and/or marketing plan, and can demonstrate that they have both the ability and resources to implement their proposal.

Applicants are expected to exercise good judgment when selecting their consultant; the consultant should be experienced, professional, and recognized as providing high quality work.

Eligible Costs:
Up to $5,000 can be made available to assist with the costs of an arms-length consultant. Total assistance will not normally exceed 90% of the consultant’s cost, and will be based on demonstrated need.

Applicants are expected to be highly involved in the business planning process in order to have a good understanding of the final plan.

All projects must be completed and funds disbursed
by February 27, 2009

Proposal Requirements:
A formal application is required for each project. Applications will be received until Midnight, December 31, 2008 or until program is fully subscribed.

For additional information contact:
Lloyd Beverly, Program Coordinator
Tel: 613-283-7002 ext. 106 (888-784-7605)   Fax: 613-283-7005    lloyd@valley.on.ca

• Business Planning Information Sheet (PDF, 25 KB)
  
• Business Planning Application (PDF, 19 KB)
  
• Business Planning Application (Word, 21 KB)