Government of Canada funds project to promote self-employment

KINGSTON, ONTARIO—The Honourable Peter Milliken, Member of Parliament for Kingston and the Islands, welcomed the announcement from the Honourable Joe Volpe, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development, of $222,992 in funding for a project under the Self-Employment Benefit program.

“I am pleased to hear that the Government of Canada is providing funding for a project that is helping people in the Kingston area create and sustain their own small business,” said Mr. Milliken. “This project will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the community and the local economy.”

Under this project, Skebo and Associates Inc. will provide individuals in the Kingston area with the skills and knowledge they need to start their own business. Selected participants will follow business skills courses on a wide range of subjects that will enable them to research the viability of their business. Participants will then develop their own business plan and implement it. Ongoing support will be given to participants as they operate their new business.

As part of the Employment Insurance (EI) Act, the Self-Employment Benefit provides EI-eligible participants with income support, planning assistance and mentoring while they get their business 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 implementation as well as business and personal skills development—skills such as marketing, presentation and negotiation techniques.


The Self-Employment Benefit is one of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada’s Employment Benefits and Support Measures, which help Canadians to 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.

PROJECT SUMMARY- Government of Canada funding: $222,992 through the Self-Employment Benefit program- Objective: provide individuals in the Kingston area with the skills and knowledge they need to start their own business.

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For more information:

Peter Clarke
Director, Kingston Management Area
Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
(613) 545-8562