Overview

Interested in exploring the development of an employment social enterprise idea? TEF regularly runs the ESE Idea Accelerator program, which supports participants to strengthen both business and social aspects of their ESE idea through a number of workshops which leverage experiential and peer learning, one on one coaching, worksheets, and self reflection. 

The 10th cohort of the ESE Idea Accelerator is scheduled for Fall 2022, with applications due October 10, 2022. You can register now for our Accelerator Info Webinar on September 22. Please see below for application and eligibility details and the links to the Accelerator application form. 

TEF requires individuals and organizations interested in the ESE Idea Accelerator to attend an ESE 101 webinar and ESE 201 workshop before participating in the Accelerator. Learn more about these Catalyzing supports (webinars, workshops, etc.) here.

Program Description

The ESE Idea Accelerator program supports individual entrepreneurs and organizations to develop new, high-potential, employment social enterprises ideas. Employment social enterprises are businesses that create inclusive employment opportunities for people facing barriers to the labour market. The program offers participants the chance to strengthen their ESE ideas through four interactive workshops and peer support. Participants may also have the opportunity to pitch for a 'Catalyzing Grant' of up to $7,500.

Workshop Overview

Please note that due to COVID-19, the Accelerator has been adapted to be eight online workshops that are 2.75 hours each.

• Workshop 1 – Employment Model: During this workshop you’ll explore the employment needs of your ‘target population’ and refine the various aspects of your employment model and employment intervention.
• Workshop 2 – Business Idea: During this workshop you’ll strengthen your product or service idea, learn about conducting market research, and gain the tools you need to develop a strong understanding of your target markets.
• Workshop 3 – Operational Plan: During this workshop, you’ll learn about your options for business structure and corporate forms, be introduced to key aspects of operations, such as human resources and supply chain management, and get the basics of insurance, taxes, regulations and permits.
• Workshop 4 – Financial Projections: During this workshop, you’ll be introduced to financial planning, and learn how to price your products and services, forecast sales and cash flow and use TEF’s Business Cost Recovery model for budgeting.

Eligibility

Individuals and organizations in Peel, Toronto and York Region with an interest in exploring the development of an employment social enterprise that will create employment opportunities for people facing barriers to the labour market are eligible to participate in the Accelerator program. Additionally, to be eligible to participate:

• A member of your team must be able to attend all workshops of the Accelerator. Accelerator cohort 10 workshops are 9:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. every Thursday from October 27 through December 15.
• Your ESE idea must be planned to operate in Peel, Toronto, or York Region. 

Application Process

Accelerator participants must complete both the ESE 101 webinar and ESE 201 workshop in order to participate in the Accelerator. Learn more about these webinars here. 

TEF is hosting an Accelerator Info Webinar on September 22 from 12:00 noon to 1:00 p.m. where you can learn more about the Accelerator program. 

Applications for cohort 10 of the Accelerator are now open. The deadline to apply is 5:00 p.m. on October 10, 2022. 

Testimonials