KITCHENER — The Ontario government is expanding support for small businesses and startups by launching the next round of its Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs (RAISE) program, a $5-million initiative aimed at helping more than 400 entrepreneurs across the province.
The 2025–26 program, announced Tuesday, will provide free training, mentorship, networking opportunities and a one-time $10,000 grant to racialized and Indigenous business owners. The initiative is designed to help entrepreneurs turn innovative ideas into viable companies, create local jobs and fuel 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.”
Training and Support Through DMZ
Participants selected for the program will receive online business development training from DMZ at Toronto Metropolitan University, one of the country’s top startup incubators. Upon successful completion, entrepreneurs will be eligible for the $10,000 grant.
“We’ve seen firsthand how the RAISE program opens doors for entrepreneurs who might otherwise be overlooked,” said Abdullah Snobar, Executive Director of DMZ and CEO of DMZ Ventures. “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.”
The initiative is part of a broader $15-million, three-year commitment by the province to strengthen small business growth. Ontario says nearly 500,000 small businesses employ 2.5 million people across the province, making programs like RAISE a critical piece of economic development.
Past Successes
Business owners who participated in earlier rounds of the program say the support has already made an impact.
“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.”
Government Perspective
Several cabinet ministers emphasized that the program is about more than just business development.
“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,” said 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,” said Nina Tangri, Associate Minister of Small Business in the Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade.
“The RAISE program 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,” added Charmaine Williams, Associate Minister of Women’s Social and Economic Opportunity.
Application Details
Applications for the 2025–26 RAISE program opened this week and will remain open until October 1, 2025. To qualify, businesses must be registered or incorporated in Ontario and majority-owned by an Indigenous, Black or other racialized individual.
Entrepreneurs interested in applying can find details and submit applications at Ontario.ca/RAISE.
The program complements other provincial efforts, including the Black Youth Action Plan’s Economic Empowerment stream, which offers career development, entrepreneurship and employment support to Black youth and professionals.
With a combination of financial resources, technical training, and community-building goals, Ontario officials say the program will continue to serve as a critical tool in supporting underrepresented business leaders.
