The Small Business Program

The purpose of this program is to introduce aspiring entrepreneurs to some of the skills required for the successful operation of a business.

Program participants will acquire the knowledge to successfully complete their business plans. Upon completion of this plan, participants will be better able to make an informed decision on the validity of their business idea.

The training component of the program covers topics which focus on new business development. The program utilizes the expertise within the community by inviting professionals to deliver portions of the program. Covered topics include:

• What is an entrepreneur?
• Legal Issues in starting a business
• Market Analysis
• Business Planning
• Marketing
• Taxation
• Bookkeeping/Record keeping
• Advertising
• Human Resource Management
• Customer Service

Useful Links for aspiring Entrepreneurs:

Skills PEI - This website has information and applications on wage subsidy programs for individuals, business and non profits.   Canada Business  - This website contains helpful fact sheets, planning guides and checklists for entrepreneurs. Located across Canada, great access to information to build your business plan. New Business Checklist
PEI Business Development: Getting into Business in Prince Edward Island
Statistics Canada - Statistical data that will help you make informed decisions about your market.
Industry Canada - Canada's Business and Consumer Site
The Canadian Youth Business Foundation - Services and support for young entrepreneurs.
Service Canada: Starting a Business - Information on services available to help you start your business. Industry Canada - Canadian Industry Statistics

Self-Employ PEI Program

On behalf of Skills PEI, Resources West administers the Self-Employ PEI  program. Self-Employ PEI provides eligible individuals with financial support for up to one year. Self-Employ PEI is a tool that can help individuals achieve their goals of self-employment, by providing them with suitability assessment, business training, tools & resources, technical advice and financial support.

Aspiring entrepreneurs who meet eligibility requirements will receive weekly financial support to help ease the financial burden individuals face during the first year of business operation.

This program is available to unemployed individuals currently receiving EI benefits or whose EI benefit period ended within the last three years; or who have received maternity or parental benefits within the last five years. Other unemployed invididuals whom do not have an attachment to Employment insurance may also be eligible to apply. 

To apply you must:

• Be unemployed
• Legally entitled to work in Canada
• Be able to contribute equity
• Have not participated in SEB within the past five years
• Be willing to work a minimum of 35 hours per week on the business
• Agree to provide a business plan for review within 10 weeks
• Start a new business or take over an existing business in which you had no prior ownership
• Agree to work full time on your business

• Under the Self-Employ PEI program you will be eligible to receive Insurance benefits for 52 weeks at a rate determined by Skills PEI.
• This benefit can be discontinued if the client does not complete his or her contract obligations.

How do I Apply?

• Meet with a Skills PEI service provider (Career Development Services) to develop a return to work action plan.
• Prepare a brief business description and resume.
• Arrange for a meeting with the Coordinator at Resources West.
• If you and your business concept meet the criteria you will be directed to Service Canada for a determination on your E.I. eligibility.
• You will sign an agreement.
• Attend the recommended Small Business Program.
• Prepare a business plan for review by Resources West & Skills PEI.