Self Employment Program

The Self Employment Program offers Employment Insurance recipients an opportunity to receive financial assistance when starting a business. If your business plan is accepted you will receive your current EI claim rate or $350/week, whichever is greater, for up to one year. Income you earn will not reduce the amount of your SE benefit. The program also provides entrepreneurial/business training, on-going business counseling and dependent care allowance.

To apply for the Self Employment Benefit you must meet the following criteria:

1. You must be currently unemployed.
2. Plan to establish a business in the Greater Trail area
3. Be receiving Employment Insurance benefits or have received EI benefits within the last three years (up to five years for a maternity or paternity claim). You must have no outstanding issues with EI before coming to the program, (i.e. overpayments, student loan outstanding, family maintenance disagreements)
4. Show that you are able to personally invest in your business
5. Attend an orientation session at Community Futures
6. Complete a business plan

If you meet theses requirements, or wish to learn more about the SE Program, visit our getting started page or plan to attend an orientation session.