Huron County, Ontario – The Starter Company Plus program, administered locally by the County of Huron, provides business training, advisory support, and grant opportunities of up to $5,000 for eligible participants to start, expand, or buy a business. The 2024 program awarded 11 businesses a total of $37,250 in grant funding.
“Completion of this program represents significant hard work and commitment, immense creativity, and a true entrepreneurial spirit,” said Director of Economic Development, Vicki Lass.
The 2024 program intake received 23 applications. After interviews and consultation, 12 businesses were selected to participate in the training program, which began in September. With a 100% retention rate – the highest in years – all 12 participants graduated from the program and competed in a pitch competition for the chance to secure micro-financing grants of up to $5,000.
Overall, the 2024 program supported 7 start-ups (defined as under one year in business), 5 business expansions, and contributed 16 jobs to the local economy.
To graduate from the Starter Company Plus program, each participant must have successfully:
- Completed a 12-week training program that includes coaching, mentoring, and workshops covering all aspects of business management;
- Developed a comprehensive business plan, complete with a SWOT and cash flow analysis;
- And presented a business pitch to the Grant Review Committee, comprised of respected business community representatives.
“Participants noted that the tailored advisory support, educational workshops, networking opportunities and financial literacy were all elements they found to be instrumental in enhancing their business growth, development and sustainability,” said Tricia Denomme, the lead Business Advisor for the program.
2024 Starter Company Plus grant recipients include:
- A. Scott Agricultural Services – Amanda Scott (South Huron)
P: 519-275-4390
A. Scott Agricultural Services offers contract crop inspection services to third party certification bodies and authorized seed crop inspection services in Canada operating out of southwestern Ontario. Inspections take place at facilities responsible for the organic and conventional production of seed, grain, feed, livestock and involve reviewing quality management systems for seed production, seed importation and field crop inspection. A. Scott Agricultural Services received $1,715 in grant funding for training and personal protective equipment.
- Ashfield Speech & Language – Amanda Miltenburg (Ashfield-Colborne-Wawanosh)
Ashfield Speech & Language Facebook Page
Amanda Miltenburg with Ashfield Speech and Language offers expert speech and language assessments and therapy for children, using a child-led, play-based, and neurodiversity-affirming approach. Her therapy services address a variety of needs, including articulation, phonology, expressive and/or receptive language, phonemic awareness, and early intervention. Amanda also supports Gestalt Language Processors through specialized training in Natural Language Acquisition. Ashfield Speech and Language received $4,100 in grant funding for office equipment.
- Bluevale Auto Repair – Mark Bridge (Morris-Turnberry)
P: 519-531-0169
Bluevale Auto Repair is a trusted, locally owned and operated automotive shop run by Mark Bridge, a licensed technician with over 20 years’ experience. Mark specializes in comprehensive vehicle care, offering expert repair and maintenance services. From routine oil changes and tire replacements to advanced diagnostics and general repairs, Bluevale Auto Repair ensures your vehicle is in skilled hands. Bluevale Auto Repair received $5,000 in grant funding towards an automotive vehicle lift.
- Huron County Landscape – Sarah Williamson (Huron East)
Huron County Landscape Facebook Page
Creating beautiful outdoor spaces is Sarah’s specialty! Based in Walton, Sarah and her team offer personalized landscaping solutions to help you bring your dream yard to life. Whether it’s lawn care, garden design, or property maintenance, Huron County Landscape combines expert knowledge with a down-to-earth approach to make your property shine. Huron County Landscape received $5,000 towards a landscaping trailer.
- InPower Generator Services Inc – Matt Good (Ashfield-Colborne-Wawanosh)
Based near Lucknow, Matt Good from InPower Generator Services provides top-notch service, repair, and sales for standby generators in Huron and Bruce counties. Whether it’s for your home, business, or farm, Matt and his team ensure your power needs are covered, keeping your investments protected during power outages. InPower Generator Services received $4,800 in grant funding for a trade show booth kit.
- Small Town Paralegal – Hayley Bettles (Central Huron)
Hayley Bettles from Small Town Paralegal provides expert guidance and representation to clients guiding them through every step of the legal process. They currently provide representation in Provincial Offences Act, Traffic Tickets, Small Claims Court, Landlord and Tenant Board as well as Notary Public and Commissioning Services. Small Town Paralegal received $4,400 in grant funding for training in family law and office equipment.
- Maitland Heights Apiaries – Jonathan Cucksey (Central Huron)
Jonathan Cucksey is the owner and operator of Maitland Heights Apiaries. This business is deeply rooted in the world of beekeeping. With a passion for crafting exquisite seasonal honey, Jonathan is dedicated to bringing you the finest offerings from his bee yards across the Maitland Valley. Maitland Heights Apiaries received $4,000 in grant funding for bee breeder hives.
- JT Creative Works – Jacob Bjerg and Taylor Jones (Central Huron)
JT Creative Works are your full-scale event experts! They don’t just rent – they bring your entire event to life with full-scale event planning and coordination. Whether you’re hosting a corporate event, festival, or private party, Jacob Bjerg and Taylor Jones will turn your vision into reality with flawless coordination and exceptional rentals, ensuring a stress-free and unforgettable experience. JT Creative Works received $2,700 in grant funding for event rental items.
- Kings Crown Detailing – Keifer King (Goderich)
From everyday commuter vehicles to weekend cruisers, Keifer King from Kings Crown Detailing does it all by providing high-quality cleaning for his customers vehicles that make them look and smell like new – all at an affordable price! Kings Crown Detailing received $750 in grant funding for training.
- A Life That’s Good – Ally Campbell-Main (Goderich)
Ally brings her unique perspective on life along with meaningful conversations through her engaging podcast, “A Life That’s Good,”co-hosted with Phil Main. This must-listen podcast dives into the many aspects that make midwestern Ontario an incredible place to live, work, and raise a family. From arts and music to local bakeries, restaurants, breweries, wineries, and community organizations, the podcast highlights the people and places that make the region special. A Life That’s Good received $1,000 in grant funding for podcast equipment.
Lunar Lounge Salon – Leonie Dolmage (North Huron)
Leonie specializes in helping curly-haired clients embrace their natural beauty and reach their hair’s full potential. Lunar Lounge also serves clients with expert trims, color services and stunning updos for special events. They strive to create a warm and cozy space for customers, where they can enjoy a high-quality service that meets their needs and expectations. At the same time, they take careful consideration in the products used so customers can take comfort that their health and the environment are protected. Lunar Lounge Salon received $3,785 in grant funding for training and equipment.
Enrollment for participation in the next intake of the Starter Company Plus program is open in July 2025. To learn more visit: www.HuronCounty.ca/economic-development
Disclaimer: Participation in or support of local businesses featured through the Starter Company Program does not imply an endorsement or recommendation by the County of Huron. The County of Huron makes no guarantees regarding the quality, performance, or success of these businesses.