Pathways to Self-Employment is a supportive program that helps people explore self-employment as an option and develop entrepreneurial skills. It is focused on helping people achieve their personal goals and is designed to be safe, flexible, and supportive.

The program offers:

• Self-paced training session: Learn the skills to start and run a business through short, manageable sessions.
• One-on-one coaching: Personalized support to work through business challenges and plan for growth.
• Peer support: Connect with others to share ideas, build networks, and support. This can lead to partnerships, referrals, and practical learning.
• Financial supports: we might be able to help offset some start-up costs and will provides information about available grants and loans.

Although the program focuses on self-employment, we know people’s goals may change. The skills participants learn, such as entrepreneurial mindset, time and project management, financial literacy, communications and marketing, and research and analytical skills are useful in other paths. In partnership with employment services, we will help participants to reach their goals, whether that means starting a business, finding employment or pursuing further education/ training.

Register for Services

Please complete the online form to register for the Pathways to Self-Employment program. After you do, an Employment Consultant will reach out to book some time to discuss your goals and service needs.

If you are having difficulties registering online, please reach out to selfemppathways@regionofwaterloo.ca or call 226-753-5451 for assistance.

Training

The training is broken into different sessions that you can choose from based on your learning needs. Check out the calendar to find out session details and to register.