We’re excited to announce that our partners at Telus are launching the #StandWithOwners campaign to help bring awareness and funding to small business owners and entrepreneurs across Canada!

The last two years have been challenging for many entrepreneurs and business owners across Canada. With COVID-19 lockdowns and business closures, funding has been a major challenge. Over 40 per cent of entrepreneurs in Canada say they face challenges in starting or continuing their business. One of the primary reasons for this is inadequate funding, which has been exacerbated by the pandemic. 

With even more Canadians turning to entrepreneurship, the gig economy booming, and the desire to continue working from home, Canadian business owners and entrepreneurs are crucial to revitalizing the economy. 

But the future looks bright and business owners are proud of what they’ve accomplished, excited and passionate about their future. In a recent survey, over 41 per cent of participants said they were going to develop a new product or service in the next six months, and a whopping 65 per cent of entrepreneurs registered their business or incorporated in the past year. 

That’s where Ownr and Telus are striving to help revitalize and grow businesses, just like yours.

What is #StandWithOwners?

#StandWithOwners is a funding, marketing, and mentorship grant program brought together by Telus. Telus has committed $1M in funding, local advertising, and mentorships to showcase local and small Canadian businesses. 

#StandWithOwners couldn’t have come at a better time. After more than a year into the pandemic, Canadian small business owners are facing unique challenges. But are also hopeful and resilient. With an infusion of funding, a targeted marketing campaign, and industry-leading expertise, #StandWithOwners will help champion a multitude of small business owners across Canada. 

Each week, between June 22, 2021 and October 17, 2021, a winner will be selected. Selected recipients will receive:

• $10,000 cash infusion directly to your business
• Local, personalized ad campaign to promote your business
• One-on-one mentorship from one of Telus’s partners and industry experts
• Samsung technology package 

The #StandWithOwners contest closes on October 31, 2021.

Why are grant programs like #StandWithOwners so important?

Starting or growing your business isn’t for the faint of heart. But it can be as rewarding as it is challenging… with the right help. As the Canadian economy ramps up again, small business owners like you are looking for ways to expand their products and services. This means resources and cash are needed. 

As you start your business or as your business grows and cash becomes more necessary, you might be looking for other ways to procure funding. Grant programs are a great way to fund your business, but you will probably want to register your business first. By registering your business, you’re showing the grant judges (and any other investors, really) that your business is legitimate in the eyes of the provincial and federal government. 

There are other benefits to registering your business. As a registered business, you can file taxes as a business and that means business tax benefits. That’s money saved. 

Registering your business also gives you access to applying for business loans, credit, business bank accounts, and yep, grants like #StandWithOwners. If you’re thinking about investors, you’ll need to register your business to make sure you look like a reputable option in the marketplace.

Basically, registering your business will help you gain access to benefits and support, and help you grow your business. To find out more about how to register your business, head on over here. 

How to apply to the #StandWithOwners grant program

To apply, visit the Telus #StandWithOwners campaign and fill out the applicant entry form. It’s that easy. 

What makes a successful applicant?

A successful applicant is a business owner who can demonstrate that they’ve made a positive impact in their community. That means engaging with their community and bringing unique products or services that are needed to market.

A successful applicant will also be able to show:

• The journey your business has undertaken over the past year 
• How technology has played a role in the health and transformation of your business
• An effective video or photo presentation with your application submission 

Want to find out more about how to write a winning business grant application? Here’s your ultimate go-to guide.

How can I support other business owners?

It’s super easy. 

Pick a small business in your community and share how you’ll support them on Twitter or Instagram. Don’t forget to tag them with the #StandWithOwners hashtag, telling everyone why you love that business and how they’re helping your community. 

As a business supporter, your post will be entered for a chance to win a $500 gift card. How’s that for a win-win?

Get started today

Whether you’re registering your business or looking for funding opportunities like the Telus #StandWithOwners, Ownr is here to help.