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Rise business and loan program

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About Rise Asset Development 

Rise Asset Development is a registered charity that provides low interest small business loans, mentoring and training to people who have experienced mental health and addiction challenges and who cannot access financing from traditional financial institutions. Rise currently delivers programs across Ontario and in Nova Scotia. 

While some entrepreneurs may have a formal diagnosis, many simply recognize a barrier to achieving their goals, such as depression, PTSD, or a disability.  

Youth Training Programs (Ontario) 

  • Youth Small Business Program

A free course for youth aged 16 to 29 in Toronto who are interested in launching or growing a small business. It's a great opportunity to learn essential business and financial skills while developing the confidence to run a successful business. You'll take creative workshops for business idea development, in-class mentorship from business professionals and more. Graduates are eligible to receive a $500 in startup grant. Visit www.riseyouth.ca for more information. 

  • Online course

EnterpRISEing Youth is a free online course, based on the Youth Small Business Program curriculum. It guides users to develop a lean business plan. It works on your mobile phone, is accessible with a screen reader and it features lots of interactive content. You can go through the entire course or just pick the topics that interest you. Visit www.enterpRISEingyouth.ca and click Get Started. 

  • Sudbury and London course

For youth in Sudbury and London Ontario, EnterpRISEing Youth+ is coming to you in January 2019! EnterpRISEing Youth+ is a free seven week course that combines online learning with classroom-based workshops. Work with a business coach and your peers, cultivate confidence to run a successful business and develop your idea into a lean business plan. Graduates will receive a $300 start-up grant. Visit riseassetdevelopment.com to apply today! 

Lending Program (Across Canada) 

  • Small business loans

Rise provides Small Business Loans of up to $10,000, including loans under $1500. Loans can be used for business needs such as marketing, equipment, products, raw materials, insurance, rent etc. The interest rate is prime plus 2.5% and the term is up to five years. For more information on this small business lending program and to complete the online application click here.

  • Event loans

If you are an artisan or craftsperson and require a small loan to participate in a craft show or other event, consider the Event Loan. This loan can provide up to $1500 to pay for a show booth, marketing and inventory. The loan is paid back at the end of the show with the proceeds from the sales at that show, and the cost of borrowing is only a few dollars. Click here for more on event loans.

Once you apply, you will work remotely or in-person with a business advisor to prepare your application for review by an investment committee. When your application has been approved, you will be matched with a Rise Mentor to support you through your first year of business. Unlike a bank, Rise is a flexible lender who can adjust your loan payments if needed. 

Contact Rise:  

Youth contact - Kimber Kunimoto: