ACCESS Business Lab
COMING SOON
Empowering Entrepreneurs in underserved communities
ACCESS Business Lab COMING SOON
Starting a new business is always challenging. But for underserved communities and newcomers to Canada, the challenges to successful entrepreneurship can be even greater.
The ACCESS Business Lab, a pilot initiative by ACCESS Community Capital Fund, is designed to tackle these challenges head-on. By offering free, advanced online and in-person entrepreneurship training and personalized coaching, the program aims to deepen participants’ business knowledge and skills across all stages of small business development: from ideation, launch, growth, expansion, and sustainability.
Through the ACCESS Business Lab, we want to ensure that each aspiring entrepreneur is given the maximum support available to pursue entrepreneurship with limited barriers as possible. Knowing how lonely entrepreneurship can be, we will provide guidance to entrepreneurs through a curriculum of workshops and more importantly, a combination of group and one-to-one coaching/mentorship.
Why the ACCESS Business Lab?
Economic Prosperity for All:
Despite Canada’s prosperity, many aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly from low-income, racialized, and newcomer communities, face significant hurdles in accessing the resources necessary to succeed. The Access Business Lab addresses these challenges head-on by providing free, advanced entrepreneurship training and personalized coaching to help you navigate every stage of your business journey.
A Proven Approach:
Building on the success of our previous programs, the Access Business Lab offers a more intensive and targeted approach to business development. Our program equips you with essential skills, connects you to financial resources, and provides access to a vast network of industry experts ready to guide you every step of the way.
What does ACCESS Business Lab offer?
Customized Training and Workshops:
Gain in-depth knowledge across all stages of business development—from ideation to sustainability. Our eight-week program covers everything from business planning and financial management to marketing and legal requirements.
Personalized Mentorship:
Benefit from one-on-one and group coaching with experienced entrepreneurs who have successfully overcome the challenges you face. Our mentors provide practical, empathetic guidance tailored to your unique circumstances.
Financial Literacy and Access to Capital:
Master the essentials of financial management with advanced modules on budgeting, credit education, and fundraising strategies. We’ll help you navigate the financial landscape, connecting you to grants, loans, and other funding opportunities.
Inclusivity and Accessibility:
We’re committed to ensuring everyone can participate. Our program includes multilingual workshops, online and in-person sessions, and support for childcare and transportation to remove barriers to your success.
How it works:
The ACCESS Business Lab supports participants through 4 phases of business fundamentals training over 8 weeks, with an option for 6 additional weeks of extended support:
Phase 1: Business Ideation & Validation (Weeks 1-2)
- Develop and refine your business idea.
- Engage in interactive sessions on market research, customer identification, and value proposition.
Phase 2: Financial Planning & Management (Weeks 3-4)
- Learn the financial requirements of running a business.
- Get hands-on training in budgeting, cash flow forecasting, and financial statement analysis.
Phase 3: Legal Requirements & Business Registration (Weeks 5-6)
- Understand the legal framework for operating a business in Canada.
- Access support for business registration, contracts, and compliance.
Phase 4: Branding, Marketing & Pitching Skills (Weeks 7-8)
- Build a strong brand and marketing strategy.
- Develop your pitching skills and present your business plan to industry experts.
Optional Extended Support (Additional 6 weeks)
- For those ready to launch or in the early stages of operation, receive further guidance on refining your business plan, managing finances, and securing funding.
Join a Community of Thriving Entrepreneurs
Our participants don’t just learn—they succeed. Past 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.
Get Started Today
Take the first step towards your entrepreneurial journey with the Access Business Lab. Whether you’re just starting or looking to scale, our program is designed to support you at every stage.
