What we do

Provide you with no-cost, individualized business advice and support
Work with you to refine your business concept and identify a viable business venture
Help you overcome gaps in skills and experience and other barriers to developing a successful business
Provide expert advice on market trends and regulatory requirements
Help you establish your business including initial launch
Support you in growing your business to operate independently of the Ignite program

Ignite Small Business Start-ups is a joint initiative between Settlement Services International (SSI) and ISSofBC. SSI is a community organization and social business based in Sydney, Australia that “supports newcomers and other Australians to achieve their full potential.”

You can join if you are a:

Permanent Resident, Refugee (Government Assisted and Privately Sponsored), or Protected Person
Individual who has been selected to become a permanent resident and who has been informed by a letter from IRCC
Live-in Caregiver or Temporary Foreign Worker with approval in principle
BC resident
Employed, unemployed or under-employed

Locations Available

Surrey
Open to participants across Metro Vancouver

Activities

Working with an Ignite facilitator one-on-one until the business is start-up ready
Assistance with business plan development and financial management
Connections to industry experts and other professionals who offer targeted business advice and support in various aspects (registration, marketing, regulatory and legal requirements, etc.)
Product or service testing and development
Referrals to other services and supports (eg., settlement) as required
Advice and referral options to support next steps after exiting the program