Peer Supported Startup Program
Are you 30+ and ready to build your business? We can help.
The Peer Supported Startup Program (PSSP) is a free online training program designed to help you build a small business that meets your needs, advances your goals and improves your well-being.
If you’re aged 30+ and want to grow a side hustle, launch a full-time enterprise or earn additional income, PSSP will give you the structure, guidance and support to take the next step.
To be eligible for PSSP, you must:
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- Self-identify as having experienced mental health and/or addiction challenges
- Be at least 30 years old and live in Canada
- Have a practical idea to start or grow your own for-profit small business in the next 6-12 months (any size, full- or part-time)
- Have access to a computer and reliable internet (smartphones and tablets are not recommended)
- Be committed to attending course sessions and submitting all assignments.
About the program
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PSSP is free to participate in. Delivered over 8 weeks in a flexible online format, it combines engaging educational workshops with small-group peer support to help you learn skills, build confidence and develop an actionable business plan–all in a safe, inclusive and trauma-informed learning environment that’s rooted in positive mental health practices.
PSSP features:
- Twice-weekly interactive workshops
- Small peer breakout sessions
- Facilitator-led lessons and personalized coaching
- Ongoing business plan development
- Post-graduation start-up grant
To graduate, participants must demonstrate commitment through regular attendance, completed assignments, and submission of a business plan that you will pitch at a special virtual graduation event.
Want some more detail about what you’ll learn? Here’s an example PSSP program schedule: Peer Supported Startup Program Calendar - Example.docx.pdf
What you'll gain
Learning & business development: Build the skills and confidence to develop your idea and launch your business your way.
Expand your network: Collaborate with like-minded individuals and build connections with fellow entrepreneurs.
Personalized coaching & mentorship: You’ll receive guidance and advice from our expert facilitators, both in group and one-on-one sessions.
A start-up grant & ongoing support: As a graduate, you’ll receive a start-up grant to help finance your next step and access to other Rise supports.
Counselling support: As a client, you can access short-term counselling and other wellness supports provided by Rise partners.
As a Rise client, you’ll be invited to join the Rise Community:
All Rise clients are invited to join the Rise Community—a dynamic online platform where you can engage with fellow entrepreneurs from across Canada, access exclusive events and learning opportunities, and connect with dedicated subject matter experts for personalized advice, guidance and support. Learn more...
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“Rise was such a positive experience for me that helped me set the foundation to get started.
[In PSSP] we walked through our business plan from beginning to end to know what our product was, know who our target audience was, know how to break down our costs, etc. It was so helpful because with a strong foundation, you save yourself from a lot of mistakes.”
- Andria Barrett, Toronto, ON
Ready to get started?
Our application process is designed to ensure you’re both eligible and ready for PSSP—that you’re able to commit to the schedule and in a place where you and your business can benefit from the curriculum.
After you submit your application, we’ll follow up within 3–5 days with a short Google Form to learn more about you, your business, your mental health journey, and why you’re applying now. We’ll also confirm your availability for upcoming cohort dates.
If we need any additional information, we’ll be in touch. Otherwise, you can expect to hear back within 2 weeks.
Upcoming dates:
Our next Peer Supported Startup Program cohort runs from
September 14 to November 16, 2026.
Additional cohorts to begin in:
January 2027
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and close approximately one week before each cohort start date.
Interested in entrepreneurship, but not quite ready to apply for a program?
Sign up for our self-directed online program, EntrepRISEing You.
It's like an intro to entrepreneurship. Once you create an account, you'll have access to 15 learning modules, including our Idea Generator—a three-part video workshop that will help you explore your ideas and gauge whether or not you are ready to begin your entrepreneurial journey.
