Self Employment Program

Westcoast provides a 48 week program designed to assist the client develop and complete a Business Plan and start a business. The program is in two parts:

• 8 weeks of in class sessions to complete a business plan and gain business management skills
• another 40 weeks to provide the support to take the client through the start-up phase of the business.

On going support is provided with success teams and one-on-one consulting.

THE WESTCOAST SELF-EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM helps prepare you for the challenges of starting and operating a successful business.

This well established and industry leading program provides:

• 8 weeks of comprehensive business workshops designed to assist you in developing the skills required to operate a small business and to create a viable business plan;
• 40 weeks of mentoring while you start your business and implement your business plan;
• up to 48 weeks of financial support;
• peer group support.

The interactive and practical workshops will give you tools which will help you:

• focus on your business idea
• conduct and evaluate market research
• develop a market strategy
• prepare and understand financial forecasts
• determine break-even sales
• identify financing options
• navigate the rules and regulations affecting your business
• identify and prepare strategies to minimize risks which may impact your business

Who May Apply

The Westcoast Self-Employment Program is designed for people who have a viable business idea backed by relevant skills, education and experience.

Eligibility is based on guidelines set out by the Government of Canada.

Applicants Must Either:

• have an active Employment Insurance (EI) claim, or;
• have been on EI in the 36 month period prior to the start of the Self-Employment Program, or;
• have been receiving maternity/parental benefits during the 60 months prior to the start of the self-employment program and be seeking re-entry to the labour force.

Applicants Must:

• reside in the Lower Mainland
• have a viable business idea and be legally entitled to work in Canada
• start a business new to you
• demonstrate an ability to make an investment in the business, in cash and/or goods
• live and plan to operate your business within the above defined geographical area
• provide proof of control of ownership of your business

Application and Selection Process

To apply to the Westcoast Self-Employment Program, call and register to attend an information session where you will learn more about the program before completing an application form.

Once your completed application is submitted, Westcoast will schedule a personal interview with one of our business advisors to discuss your idea and application.

WE GUARANTEE all applicants an interview with a business advisor.

Space is limited and the application process is competitive.

A panel of volunteers from the local business community makes the final selection of participants for the program.

Here are some of the criteria we use to evaluate applications:

• a clearly defined business idea
• unique or competitive advantage
• proven market opportunity or need for your business
• completion of some market research
• relevant education, skills and experience
• reasonable ability to either self finance or raise financing for your business
• letters of support or interest from prospective customers

To apply for the program or learn more, please contact us.