The Entrepreneur’s Challenge:
Starting a new business is always challenging.
And for visible minorities, women, and other underserved communities, the challenges to successful entrepreneurship can be even greater.
The Solution:
The ACCESS Business Lab was designed to tackle these challenges head-on.
Through a comprehensive curriculum of free, advanced entrepreneurship training, mentorship and personalized business coaching, the ACCESS Business Lab deepens participants’ business knowledge, skills and financial management through all stages of business development, from ideation and launch through growth, expansion, and sustainability.
The Benefits:
With the ACCESS Business Lab, every aspiring entrepreneur receives the guidance and support needed to overcome barriers and pursue successful entrepreneurship.
How It Works: 3 Key Components
1. Customized Training & Workshops
With the ACCESS Business Lab, participants gain in-depth business knowledge through all stages of business development—from ideation to sustainability.
Our 6-week workshop series covers a full range of topics including business ideation and validation, business planning, financial management, marketing, legal, and more!
2. Personalized Coaching & Mentorship
ACCESS Business Lab participants also benefit from mentoring and personalized coaching facilitated by experienced professionals who understand the challenges that entrepreneurs face.
Our experienced mentors provide practical, empathetic guidance tailored to our participants’ unique circumstances.
3. Financial Empowerment & Access to Capital
ACCESS Business Lab participants will also gain knowledge on how the Canadian credit and financing system works in order to leverage the various business funding options available in the ecosystem.
Join a Community of Thriving Entrepreneurs
Graduates of the ACCESS Business Lab don’t just learn—they succeed. Our graduates have launched successful businesses, created jobs, and revitalized local economies.
Through the ACCESS Business Lab, you’ll join a vibrant and diverse community of like-minded individuals, all in the process of making their entrepreneurial dreams a reality.
About ACCESS CCF
Since its founding in 1999, ACCESS Community Capital Fund (ACCESS CCF) has been dedicated to fostering inclusive economic growth and supporting underserved entrepreneurs. Over the past two decades, we have empowered thousands of entrepreneurs by providing essential financial resources, mentorship, and training.
This commitment continues to break down barriers and create opportunities for entrepreneurs in underserved communities across Canada.
ACCESS CCF remains committed to our mission to build a resilient and inclusive small business ecosystem that drives economic prosperity for all.
ACCESS Success Stories:
Business: Securegard Protection Inc.
Owner: Yachelle Jackson
Securegard Protection is a security service based in Toronto, providing uniformed security for commercial, residential, and special events. Yachelle Jackson, their founder and CEO, shares her remarkable success story in bringing this business to life:
“Several years ago, when every other organization saw my business as unviable, Access Community Capital Fund saw potential. They were the first to approve my business for financial assistance, giving me the crucial support I needed to launch and grow. That initial investment wasn’t just about funding—it was about belief, encouragement, and an opportunity to succeed.
Today, my business is thriving, and I’ve been able to create jobs in my community while empowering young people through my security training courses. Seeing individuals gain vital life skills, build confidence, and secure employment because of something I started is an indescribable feeling. None of this would have been possible without ACCESS’s unwavering support. They took a chance on me when no one else would, and for that, I am forever grateful. Thank you for believing in me and fueling the dream that is now a reality.”
Business: For the Grandchildren
Owner: Dawn James
For the Grandchildren invites grandparents, seniors and elders to leave a lasting legacy for future generations by sharing a memoir, life lessons and wisdom in a Digital Family Keepsake.
Create a timeless connection by building a Digital Family Keepsake – eBook, video or audio – to share your story. Imagine a great great great grandchild reading your words, hearing your voice or seeing your face, as you pass down your wisdom.
Let’s preserve your legacy together.
Business: Wellclinica
Owner: Jana Jardali
Jana Jardali is a holistic nutritionist and food and health engineer. Originally from Lebanon, she holds a master’s degree in food and health engineering from France.
Jana operates a virtual holistic nutrition clinic offering global online nutrition plans. She has been running her business outside Canada for 9 years, and now, with support from ACCESS, she has extended her business in Canada.
Business: Gingerbread Haus
Owner: Marilu Ciabattoni
Marilu Ciabattoni is a social media manager and graphic designer from Italy who immigrated to Canada in 2022. She briefly had a business in The Netherlands for just a few months before moving to Canada. After arriving in Canada, she found a job, but was laid off after about a year. She then founded Gingerbrand Haus, a full-service marketing agency for growing businesses who want to stand out online. They specialize in social media management, graphic design and branding.
Business: Csilla’s Brownie Factory
Owner: Csilla Paizs-Kis
Csilla’s Brownie Factory specializes in handcrafted, gourmet brownies made with high-quality, natural ingredients. We focus on creating unique flavours while maintaining a commitment to fairness, inclusion, and ethical sourcing. Our brownies are loved by coffee shops, event organizers, caterers, and restaurants, and we’re always excited to share our passion for delicious treats with new customers.
ACCESS CCF by the Numbers
Discover the impact of our initiatives: Metrics that showcase our dedication to empowering entrepreneurs and fostering economic growth.
women who embarked on their entrepreneurial journeys with ACCESS (2020-2024)
%
Loan Repayment Rate: a testament to the effectiveness of character based funding.
people who took their first steps toward their entrepreneurial dreams (2020-2024).
%
Boosted Client Motivation rates following program completion
Act Now
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Transform your business dreams into reality with the ACCESS Business Lab.
It’s within your Grasp!
Guided Training, personalized coaching and mentoring, and financial literacy and support to help you take your business idea to reality.
Don’t Miss this Chance to Shine.
Join the ACCESS Business Lab today and watch your business thrive!
Our Office:
401 Richmond St W Studio 374
Toronto, ON M5V 3A8
Office Hours:
Mon-Fri: 9am - 5pm
Sat-Sun: Closed
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