Ontario is investing a record $49 million over three years in its province-wide small business support network, as the government seeks to make advisory services, funding information and entrepreneurship programs easier to access amid economic uncertainty and the effects of U.S. tariffs.
The investment will support the newly branded Ontario Small Business Advisory Centres (OSBAC), formerly known as Small Business Enterprise Centres. The network operates through more than 50 locations across Ontario, providing entrepreneurs with consultations, training, mentorship and information about government programs and funding.
Ontario Introduces Province-Wide OSBAC Brand
The government said the new Ontario Small Business Advisory Centres identity is intended to create a more recognizable and consistent brand for services that previously operated under different names and logos across the province.
The underlying services will remain unchanged. Entrepreneurs will continue to have access to advice and resources designed to help them start, purchase, sell, expand or adapt businesses.
“Now more than ever, Ontario small businesses need timely advice, trusted services and practical supports to help them navigate change and succeed,” said Nina Tangri, Associate Minister of Small Business. “As we work to protect Ontario’s economy, our record $49 million investment and the new OSBAC brand will make it easier for business owners to find and access the tools and advice that can help them pivot, grow and create jobs.”
The network handled more than 182,000 inquiries and delivered nearly 40,000 consultations during 2025-26. It also launched, supported or expanded more than 16,000 businesses and helped create more than 16,600 jobs, according to the province.
Funding Supports Entrepreneurship Programs
The $49-million commitment will help OSBAC locations respond to growing program demand, expand advisory services and support new initiatives.
Programs available through the network include Summer Company, which provides people aged 15 to 29 with training, mentorship and up to $3,000 to operate a summer business. Starter Company Plus offers entrepreneurs aged 18 and older mentoring, training and access to as much as $5,000 in funding to start, grow or purchase a business.
The network also connects entrepreneurs with Succession Ontario, a province-wide initiative designed to help business owners prepare for ownership transitions and keep viable companies operating in their communities.
“Through the Government of Ontario’s record investment in the province-wide business support network and the launch of the Ontario Small Business Advisory Centre brand, business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs will find it easier to connect with trusted advice, programs and funding opportunities,” said Sabrina DeMarco, Executive Director of Invest WindsorEssex’s Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre. “We’re proud to continue helping Windsor-Essex businesses start, grow and adapt, while benefiting from a stronger, more visible identity that highlights the resources available across Ontario.
Small Businesses Account for Major Share of Ontario Employers
Ontario has nearly 500,000 small businesses, representing 98 per cent of employer businesses in the province and employing roughly 2.5 million people.
The government is positioning the advisory-centre investment as part of a broader effort to support businesses facing global economic uncertainty and U.S. tariffs.
Ontario has also announced a reduction in the small business corporate income tax rate from 3.2 per cent to 2.2 per cent. According to the province, the measure is expected to support more than 375,000 small businesses, provide savings of up to $5,000 annually and deliver $1.1 billion in additional tax relief over three years.
Local Business Groups Welcome Expanded Support
“Local entrepreneurs are the driving force behind strong communities and a strong economy, which is why I am proud of our government’s record $49 million investment in Ontario’s network of Small Business Advisory Centres. By connecting business owners with local support, funding opportunities and expert advice, we are helping businesses grow, create jobs and contribute to a more prosperous Ontario.”
The statement was made by Andrew Dowie, MPP for Windsor-Tecumseh.
With the additional funding and unified OSBAC identity, the province is aiming to make existing resources easier for entrepreneurs to identify while maintaining locally delivered services across Ontario.