Early Sparks program, a 5-week program for individuals like you – offering guidance, validation, and a clear path to turn your ideas into a successful venture.

Applications are now closed

Do you want to start a business but don’t know where to begin?

The Early Sparks Program is for you.

This 5-week introductory program aims to help aspiring entrepreneurs learn how to start a business. The program is open to individuals who have an idea but have not registered a business and want to journey from uncertainty to entrepreneurial readiness.

Program Agenda:

Program Outcomes:

You will:

  • Explore and refine your business ideas with expert guidance and peer support.
  • Develop a roadmap for turning your vision into a tangible business plan.
  • Gain insights into valuable resources and tools for business growth.
  • Learn practical steps to take your vision from concept to execution.
  • Develop new business relationships and reduce barriers to business development.
  • Build the confidence to pursue your entrepreneurial dreams.
  • Gain a clear understanding of your entrepreneurial vision and goals.

Who is Eligible?

  • 18 years of age or older
  • A resident of Waterloo Region
  • Not a registered business owner in Ontario
  • Proposing a new idea, expansion of an existing idea.
  • Prepared to complete the business training components of the Early Sparks program as prescribed by the Waterloo Region Small Business Centre
  • Prepared to attend weekly meetings for 5 weeks after acceptance into the program
  • Prepared to commit to a minimum average of 8 hours a week working on the idea

When: Weekly, starting from Wednesday, October 2-30
Time: 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm
Where: 2 King Street W., Kitchener

Program Benefits:

  • Free Workspace: Enjoy 3 months of free hot desk access in our collaborative workspace.
  • Meeting Room Access: Get 5 hours of free meeting room space for your business meetings and development.
  • Personal Guidance: Receive one-on-one advice from our small business advisors.
  • Networking Support: Connect with a dynamic community for active networking and potential referrals.
  • Access to limited exclusive business resources.