Dear Members,
Here is your April 2025 Resource Round-Up: a collection of funding opportunities, grants, training programs, and contests curated by The Junction BIA to support your business’s growth and success. Take a moment to explore what’s available and make the most of the opportunities that best fit your business!
Starter Company Plus Grant Program
Applications for the City of Toronto’s Starter Company Plus Grant Program will open soon. Program participants are eligible for a $5,000 micro-grant to support the growth and expansion of their business. If you are interested in applying, you are encouraged to attend the upcoming information session on April 24th to learn more about the program and best practices for application submissions.
Commercial Façade Improvement Grant Program
Applications are now open for the City of Toronto’s Commercial Façade Improvement Grant Program. This program provides funding for commercial property owners and/or tenants to redesign, renovate or restore façades on commercial buildings with street-level businesses.
Applications will be accepted until April 30, 2025, or until all the grant funding has been expended.
For questions about the Commercial Façade Improvement Grant Program, please contact Michael Saunders at 416-392-1005 or email michael.saunders@toronto.ca
CaféTO Grant for patio and café upgrades
The City of Toronto’s CaféTO Grant provides restaurant, bar and café owners with a matching grant of up to a maximum of $7,500 covering 50 per cent of the cost of eligible improvements to patios in the curb lane, on sidewalks and on private property. Eligible businesses must apply before June 4 to be considered.
Summer 2025 Entrepreneur in Residence
Toronto Public Library is seeking passionate entrepreneurs to join them as one of their Summer 2025 Entrepreneurs in Residence! These paid eight-week residencies offer a unique opportunity to share your expertise with the community, to help entrepreneurs lead impactful programming and succeed in their small business ventures.
Women’s Entrepreneurship Forum
The City of Toronto, in partnership with the Diversity Institute and Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub, presents the Women’s Entrepreneurship Forum: Technology, Talent, and Transformation. At this in-person event, attendees will explore emerging technologies, high-growth sectors, and digital tools to drive success. The forum features workshops, discussions, networking, and a mini trade show showcasing organizations supporting women-led businesses. It will take place at City Hall on June 18 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Space is limited, so be sure to register early.
YES Employment Services Job Fair
YES Employment Services is hosting a Hospitality and General Labour Job Fair on May 6th. This special event is designed to connect hospitality and general labour businesses with talented individuals living with mental health barriers. This is an excellent opportunity to engage with a diverse talent pool, support the hiring of qualified candidates, and build a more inclusive, accessible workplace.
CONTEST: Canada Post “Tales of Triumph” for Small Businesses
The Canada Post Tales of Triumph Contest is now open. Enter your small business’s story to WIN up to $150,000 in FREE shipping through Canada Post, nationwide promotion for your business, and more! DEADLINE TO ENTER: May 16th, 2025
