Support For Entrepreneurs in Nipissing

Vic Fedeli, MPP for Nipissing announced that the Ontario government is investing $20,000 in two local entrepreneurs through the Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs (RAISE) grant program for 2025-26. The successful entrepreneurs received a $10,000 grant to scale their businesses upon completing the required 8-week free training program.

“Our government is ensuring that the next generation of diverse entrepreneurs in Nipissing are equipped with the tools, resources, and capital they need to transform their passions into successful and competitive businesses,” said MPP Vic Fedeli. “Today’s RAISE investment will provide two entrepreneurs in our community with the support to overcome barriers, participate in the economy, and reach their full potential.”

"Pencilixel builds digital platforms that solve real problems for real people, from improving access to care for Ontario families, to reducing administrative burden for insurance agencies. The RAISE grant is helping us move both products closer to market. We're grateful for MPP Fedeli's support of racialized entrepreneurs building practical solutions right here in Northern Ontario." - Mufang Cai, Co-Founder and CEO, Pencilixel Creative Solutions Inc.

“Receiving support from the RAISE program is an exciting step forward for Limitless Electrical Solutions. For the past eight years, we’ve proudly served North Bay and the surrounding area, providing reliable, high-quality electrical services at the best price possible. This funding will help us strengthen our online presence so more people in our community can easily find and connect with a trusted local electrician. We’re grateful for the support and look forward to continuing to grow while delivering the quality service our customers expect.” – Cody Gauthier, Owner of Limitless Electrical Solutions.

Local funding includes:
• $10,000 for Pencilixel.
• $10,000 for Limitless Electrical Solutions.

The RAISE grant program supports Indigenous, Black, and other racialized entrepreneurs who live and operate their business in Ontario. The program provides business development training, culturally responsive and tailored business coaching, networking opportunities, and a one-time grant of $10,000.

This year, Ontario is investing $5 million in the RAISE program for 2025-26 to provide free access to business coaching, training, and grants for 500 Indigenous, Black, and other racialized entrepreneurs.

Quick Facts
• Our government has doubled its investments in RAISE since it was created in 2021 to better support diverse communities and organizations doing incredible work in the space.
• This is part of the government’s total $20 million investment in RAISE to provide more than 1,800 entrepreneurs with the training and support to launch and grow successful small businesses.

Additional Information
• To learn more about the RAISE grant, please visit: RAISE.