Self Employment Program

The Self Employment Program provides eligible participants the opportunity to receive financial assistance and entrepreneurial support while they develop their business plan and when starting a business. If your application for business plan and/or startup support is accepted you will receive your current EI claim rate or $350/week, whichever is greater, for up to a maximum of 52 weeks.

Income you earn from your business operations will not reduce the amount of your SE benefit. The program also provides entrepreneurial/business training and on-going business counseling.

To apply for the Self Employment Benefit you must meet the following criteria:

1. Currently unemployed or underemployed (total employment is less than 20 hours per week).
2. Have never owned/operated this same business before
3. Plan to establish a full time business in the Greater Trail area
4. In receipt of Employment Insurance benefits or have received EI benefits within the last three years (up to five years for a maternity or paternity claim).
5. No outstanding issues with EI before coming to the program, (i.e. overpayments, student loan outstanding, family maintenance disagreements).
6. Show that you are able to personally invest in your business
7. Attend an orientation session at Community Futures
8. Complete a comprehensive business plan

If you meet theses requirements, or wish to learn more about the SE Program, visit our Getting Started page or plan to attend an orientation session.

Employment and Labour Market Service information is also available at the Employment and Labour Market Services website: Click here