'I am happy that the SEA program slows you down so you can get things in order before jumping in.  I think that we all would be in over our heads if this course didn't make us slow down and plan."  John Simonovich, Home Inspections of Muskoka, Gravenhurst

"I am thrilled to be done my business plan.  I learned a ton through the process and am very happy to have gone through it.  I know that it will help me reflect on my business, where I want it to go and how I want it to grow."  Mary Claire Cairns, Latch On, Bracebridge

"The SEA program at BERN is beyond my expectations for business education and preparation for self-employment.  The lectures and guest speakers are very informative and really gets one on the right mental track for successful entrepreneurial endeavours." Eric Read, Read Custom Cables, Barrie

More Testimonials

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Will I be able to start my business right away?

To qualify, participants cannot have started their business before they start the program.  The first 10 weeks of the program are very intense and we do not recommend that participants devote significant time to their start-up activities until after the Business Plan has been completed and reviewed. 

Can I be in partnership with my spouse/someone else?

Partnership business arrangements are possible on the program but participants must demonstrate that they control key decisions such as budgeting/spending and marketing/sales activities.  A partnership agreement is required.

How many hours do I need to devote to my business?

You must devote at least 35 hours each week (approx 150 hours a month) to your new business to be eligible for receiving benefits and remain in the program according to your agreement with Service Canada.  However, most new business owners find that they have to devote at least double this amount of time to successfully launch their business.  You may want to consider carefully the impact on family time/lifestyle and making the necessary childcare and eldercare arrangements.  

Is part-time employment possible while I am on the program?

Yes, it is possible up to a maximum of 20 hours each week, however the program activities and your business will take priority.  Part-time employment is not usually recommended since you will need to devote your energy to your new business and you must still work a minimum of 35 hours/wk on your business to continue to be eligible to receive benefits and remain in the program.

Is business financing available?

Many business concepts require substantially more funding upfront to cover inventory purchases, lease prepayments and initial operating losses.  Clients are encouraged to secure such financing from personal equity sources, family, friends and external financing, if necessary, before they start the program.  

NOTE: The weekly Ontario Self Employment Benefit program is provided for basic living expenses and is not intended for investment into your business and, in the application process, will not considered as part of the financing strategy for the business. It is your responsibility to provide sufficient funds to launch and develop your business over the year. 

What is the equity requirement I am expected to contribute?

OSEB program participants must demonstrate that they have at least $4,442 (currently) in personal equity that can be applied to the business.  This can be in cash, relevant equipment or other assets. 

Do I have access to ongoing coaching/mentoring support?

Most of our business coaching and mentoring is done in small groups of 5-25 people.  Groups can be based around your fellow group members that started the program with you or business owners with common interests or needs.  In addition, you can schedule time with our consultants on an as-needed/available basis.