This program offers immigrants and other newcomer to Canada the opportunity to obtain the knowledge and skills to become a small business owner.
!["A big business starts small." - Richard Branson](/sites/gvymca/files/styles/media_half/public/2022-08/employment_webpage__1.png.webp?itok=Ktkd-p72)
Program Features:
- Course taught by professional business advisor
- 1-on-1 coaching sessions with business advisor
- Guest speakers
- Digital Skills and English support classes
- Learn how to open a small business in 10 weeks
WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR THIS PROGRAM?
![Person Icon](/sites/gvymca/files/styles/media_full/public/2022-04/person_icon_wide_0.png.webp?itok=C7VV9Xay)
- Ages: 19+
- Open to those eligible to work in Canada. You are a Permanent Resident, conventional Refugee or in Canada under CUAET measures
- Open to those who are unemployed or under-employed, working fewer than 20 hours per week
- Must have been living in Canada fewer than five years
WHAT SHOULD PARTICIPANTS EXPECT?
![Icon depicting an open book](/sites/gvymca/files/styles/media_full/public/2022-08/copy_of_website_icon.png.webp?itok=Weiy383t)
- Cost: Free
- Length: 10-week program
- Participants receive:
- Business-plan development, guidance on the process to launch their business and to learn Canadian business practices. Participants will gain confidence, knowledge and the ability to become an entrepreneur in Canada.
- One-on-one coaching, digital literacy and ESL support
WHEN AND WHERE IS THE PROGRAM OFFERED?
![Map Point Icon](/sites/gvymca/files/styles/media_full/public/2022-04/map_point_icon_wide.png.webp?itok=BBMmptLI)
- Program Type: In person at Robert Lee YMCA, Downtown Vancouver
- Hours: Typically 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Monday to Friday
- Next program begins on January 15, 2023
YGV-SEForNewcomers@bc.ymca.ca
Our Funding Partners
Thank you to our partners helping to make the YMCA of Greater Vancouver's Employment Services programs possible!