KINGSTON, ONTARIO—The Honourable Peter Milliken, Member of Parliament for Kingston and the Islands, today welcomed the announcement from the Honourable Jane Stewart, Minister of Human Resources Development Canada (HRDC) of $199,954 in funding through the Self-Employment Benefit, to develop 80 new entrepreneurs in the Kingston area.

“This project will help the participants develop their entrepreneurial skills and start new businesses,” said Mr. Milliken. “The community will also benefit from the new services and products that result from these ventures.” 

Under this project, Skebo and Associates will help the participants with the start-up of small businesses. Participants will take part in business skills seminars, including presentation skills, networking, time management and business efficiency. Ongoing counselling and support will also be provided when they begin to operate their new businesses. 

The Self-Employment Benefit, part of the Employment Insurance (EI) Act, provides EI-eligible participants with financial support, planning assistance and mentoring while they get their businesses up and running. Financial support—in the form of EI income benefits—is provided for a maximum of 52 weeks. 

Activities funded under the Self-Employment Benefit include business plan development and business and personal skills development—skills such as marketing, presentation and negotiation techniques. 
The Self-Employment Benefit is one of HRDC’s Employment Benefits and Support Measures, which help Canadians prepare for, find and keep work.  

Funding for this project was provided for in the February 2003 federal Budget.

This project has been reviewed to ensure compliance with the Department’s administration of its grant and contribution programs.