New Frontier, funded by Human Resources and Skills Development Canada through the Opportunities Fund, provides self employment supports for persons with disabilities.

The New Frontier program is a collaboration of Lutherwood, KW Access-Ability, the Canadian Hearing Society and the Canadian National Institute for the Blind. It is designed to assist persons with disabilities as they work to launch and/or grow small businesses.

The program is offered in two phases:

Phase 1 – Introduction to Self Employment

This series of workshops encourages participants to evaluate the suitability of self employment and the viability of their business idea. Topics include:

• Entrepreneurial self assessment
• Conducting a competitive analysis
• Business organization and rules & regulations
• Estimating start up and operating costs

PHASE 2 – Business Development

This series of workshops provides information needed to develop a functional business operating plan. Topics include:

• Market Research
• Marketing
• Sales and Customer Service
• Financial Forecasting
• Business Planning

During this phase of the program, participants receive individualized support while they move their business forward. Successful participation in the program results in the following achievements:

• Development of  a business operating plan
• Development of marketing materials
• Implementation of a marketing plan
• Active prospecting for clients
• Active search for location and/or start up funding
• Business registration
• Generation of  revenue

You are eligible to apply to this free program if you:

• Encounter barriers to employment related to a disability
• Have a business idea with a product or service to sell
• Have the skills, abilities and experience to launch and operate your business
• Are 18 years of age or older
• Are legally able to work in Canada

Referrals

For more information please contact New Frontier staff our Kitchener location.