Ontario Boosting Training for Entrepreneurs
Applications are now open for the $5-million 2025-26 RAISE grant program
September 10, 2025
Citizenship and Multiculturalism
KITCHENER — The Ontario government is protecting workers and small businesses by investing $5 million to provide free business development training, coaching, networking support and 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.”
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.
“With the support of the RAISE program, we were able to strengthen our business foundations and expand our reach across Kitchener and Guelph,” said Miki Ferrall, Co-founder of Crafty Ramen. “This grant has given us the resources we need to grow sustainably and create jobs in our community, while continuing to share our passion for ramen and Japanese-inspired food culture.”
Interested entrepreneurs can learn more at Ontario.ca/RAISE and submit applications until October 1, 2025.
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.
Quotes
"Our government is proud to invest in Indigenous-led economies by providing the tools and resources needed for Indigenous entrepreneurs. These investments are about more than just launching businesses — they’re about building strong, resilient communities and advancing economic reconciliation."
- Greg Rickford
Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation
"Ontario’s small business community continues to grow, with nearly 500,000 vibrant businesses employing roughly 2.5 million people. Programs like RAISE help to ensure entrepreneurs can continue to contribute to our economy by creating strong, vibrant communities and good jobs."
- Nina Tangri
Associate Minister, Small Business – Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade
"The RAISE programs opens doors for Indigenous, Black and racialized women entrepreneurs by connecting them with expert guidance, hands-on training, and access to funding — helping them grow successful businesses that leave a lasting mark on their communities and our province. Our government is committed to giving women the tools and support they need to succeed because when women succeed, Ontario succeeds."
- Charmaine Williams
Associate Minister, Women’s Social and Economic Opportunity
"We’ve seen firsthand how the RAISE program opens doors for entrepreneurs who might otherwise be overlooked. At DMZ, ensuring every founder has a fair shot at success is at the core of how we operate. We’re thrilled to once again partner with the Ontario government to ensure racialized and Indigenous founders have the support, resources and confidence they need to scale their businesses and succeed."
- Abdullah Snobar
Executive Director of DMZ and CEO of DMZ Ventures
Additional Resources
Ontario Investing $16.5 Million to Support Black Youth and Young Professionals
Building a Stronger and More Inclusive Ontario: Ontario’s Anti-Racism Strategic Plan
Related Topics
Business and Economy
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Shannon Whitteker 9/10/2025 |
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