If you’re a woman or non-binary entrepreneur in British Columbia who identifies as having a disability, getting the right support can matter more than getting cash. Entrepreneurs on the Rise (BC) is a free program that helps you build real business skills through coaching and training—without requiring a medical diagnosis or upfront costs. The program is currently open and delivered by ETHOS Career Management Group Ltd.
Entrepreneurs on the Rise is not a traditional grant. It does not provide direct funding or cash to your business. Instead, it offers no-cost entrepreneurial training and coaching designed to help you start or grow a business in BC.
The program focuses on practical skills that many early-stage and growing entrepreneurs struggle with, including:
This makes Entrepreneurs on the Rise especially valuable if you’re preparing to apply for other business grants or loans later.
You must meet all of the following criteria to apply:
You do not need to have an incorporated business to be eligible. Both aspiring entrepreneurs and those with existing businesses can apply.
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you quickly confirm whether programs like Entrepreneurs on the Rise—and future BC grants—fit your profile.
The application process is straightforward and designed to be accessible.
Visit the official Entrepreneurs on the Rise program page
Applications are managed directly by ETHOS Career Management Group Ltd.
Complete the online application form
You’ll be asked about:
Confirm eligibility details
This includes BC residency, work eligibility in Canada, and self-identification criteria.
Wait for program intake confirmation
Successful applicants are contacted with next steps and program timelines.
There is no application fee, and participation in the program is completely free for eligible participants.
While there’s no cash funding, the value comes from structured support. This support can save you thousands in private coaching costs.
Participants gain:
Many participants use the program to prepare before applying for small business grants, community loans, or regional development funding in BC.
Assuming it’s a cash grant
Entrepreneurs on the Rise provides training and coaching, not direct funding. Apply with the right expectations.
Thinking you need medical documentation
You only need to self-identify as having a disability. No diagnosis or paperwork is required.
Not applying because your business already exists
The program is open to both new and existing businesses looking to grow or improve operations.
Waiting until you “feel ready”
This program is designed for learning. You don’t need a perfect business plan to apply.
Q: Is Entrepreneurs on the Rise a grant or funding program?
No. Entrepreneurs on the Rise does not provide direct funding. It offers free coaching and entrepreneurial training to eligible participants.
Q: Do I need a doctor’s note to apply?
No. You can self-identify as having a disability. Medical documentation is not required.
Q: Can I apply if I already run a business?
Yes. Both new entrepreneurs and those with existing businesses are eligible, as long as you meet the other criteria.
Q: Is the program only available to BC residents?
Yes. You must live in British Columbia to be eligible for Entrepreneurs on the Rise.
Q: Does the program cost anything?
No. Participation in Entrepreneurs on the Rise is free for eligible applicants.
If you’re building toward future funding, these guides can help:
Entrepreneurs on the Rise (BC) is a strong first move if you want skills, confidence, and structure before pursuing business funding. Once you’ve completed programs like this, you’ll be in a better position to qualify for grants and financing across British Columbia.
As you plan your next steps, consider using GrantHub to discover additional small business grants and support programs in BC and across Canada.
GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant programs across Canada—including BC-specific funding—so you can see which ones match your business profile as you grow.
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