Partnership Aims to Strengthen Economy Amid U.S. Tariffs and Global Uncertainty

WINDSOR – BUSINESS NEWS — The Ontario government is investing $2 million in Futurpreneur Canada to help more young people start and grow businesses, with the goal of building a stronger, more resilient economy in the face of global economic pressures and U.S. tariffs.

The funding, announced on August 26, 2025, will support 320 entrepreneurs aged 18 to 39 with access to financing, mentorship, and training programs.

“Young entrepreneurs are the backbone of Ontario’s future,” said Nina Tangri, Associate Minister of Small Business. “By investing in initiatives like Futurpreneur Canada, we are giving the next generation of business leaders the tools they need to succeed. These businesses will protect our economy, create good-paying jobs, and build thriving communities across the province.”

What Futurpreneur Offers

Futurpreneur Canada, a national non-profit, provides aspiring entrepreneurs with:

• Collateral-free loans of up to $25,000, which can be matched by the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) for a total of up to $75,000.

• Two years of mentorship with experienced business leaders.

• In-person programming and networking opportunities.

Since 2021, Ontario has invested $9 million into Futurpreneur, helping to start nearly 1,200 businesses and create more than 5,000 jobs across the province — including in Northern, rural, and remote communities.

“This renewed partnership with the Ontario government comes at a critical time for young adults across the province who are looking for meaningful ways to advance their careers and build a prosperous future,” said Karen Greve Young, CEO of Futurpreneur.

Small Business: Ontario’s Economic Backbone

Small businesses employ nearly two million Ontarians and make up 98% of all businesses in the province. Programs like Futurpreneur, alongside provincial initiatives such as Starter Company Plus, Summer Company, the Digitalization Competence Centre, the Retail Modernization Grant, and a network of Small Business Enterprise Centres (SBECs), are designed to help entrepreneurs navigate challenges and grow sustainably.

In 2024–25 alone, Ontario’s 47 SBECs helped start 8,000 businesses, expand 2,700, and create more than 15,800 jobs.

Voices from Windsor and Beyond

Government and community leaders emphasized how the investment will benefit local economies across Ontario:

• Stéphane Sarrazin, Parliamentary Assistant: “Our investment in Futurpreneur Canada is both timely and important… This funding will ensure homegrown businesses succeed while helping us create the strongest economy in the G7.”

• Andrew Dowie, MPP Windsor–Tecumseh: “Through programs like Futurpreneur Canada, we’re helping young entrepreneurs create jobs and protect our economy.”

• Anthony Leardi, MPP Essex: “We want entrepreneurs in Essex County to succeed, stay in the region, and create local jobs.”

• Drew Dilkens, Mayor of Windsor: “By giving young people the tools and support to succeed, we’re unlocking innovation and securing long-term prosperity for Windsor–Essex, Ontario, and Canada.”