FAQ's

Who can apply for the Self-Employment Equity Program?
What if I have already started my business, can I still apply?
I meant to apply to your program, but missed the deadline. When does the next class begin?
I applied to another program and didn't get in. Can I apply to your program?
What kind of a time commitment is required during the program?
What if I have questions while I'm filling out my application? Can I call on someone to assist me?
How does the Toward Excellence Self-Employment Program differ from other programs located throughout the Lower Mainland?

Who can apply for the Self-Employment Equity Program?

Our Self-Employment Equity Program is funded by Human Resources Development Canada. To apply for the program, you must be collecting Employment Insurance benefits or, finished an Employment Insurance claim within the last 3 years, or a parental claim in the last 5 years. Those who have received a severance package from their former employer may qualify as well.

What if I have already started my business, can I still apply?

If your business is a hobby and/or you are not yet earning income from the business you may be considered.

I meant to apply to your program, but missed the deadline. When does the next class begin?

We offer three intakes a year. Please contact us to find out when the next intake begins.

I applied to another program and didn't get in. Can I apply to your program?

There are nine self-employment programs throughout the Lower Mainland. Each is as unique as the business ideas of our entrepreneurs. You can apply to any program, even if your application was rejected by one of the other programs. In fact, we encourage you to apply to more than one program because there is such stiff competition for seats.

What kind of a time commitment is required during the program?

You are expected to attend all of the seminars. They are held Mondays to Thursdays from 8:30am to 12:30pm. You will graduate at the end of the third month. This signifies that you have completed the learning process and are ready to begin working full time launching your business. During the remaining eight months you will attend one SUCCESS meeting per month.

What if I have questions while I'm filling out my application? Can I call on someone to assist me?

There are opportunities to ask questions at the Information Sessions. We also offer coaching sessions to help you with the application. The dates for the coaching sessions are provided at the Information Sessions.

How does the Toward Excellence Self-Employment Program differ from other programs located throughout the Lower Mainland?

Toward Excellence is located in the heart of downtown Vancouver close to business resources. We think our graduates are the best ones to give you an idea about what makes us unique...

Read some of the testimonials from our students and hear from their own words what they have to say about Toward Excellence and the SE Equity Program...