Workers laid off from Sault Ste.
Marie’s steel industry can receive up to $10,000 in non-repayable support to start a new business under a program. Funded by the Government of Canada via the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario (FedNor), a 3-year initiative known as the Strategic Tariff-Relief Entrepreneurship Program (STEP) is being introduced by Marie & Area (CDC). Marie & Area is rolling out the Strategic Tariff-Relief Entrepreneurship Program to assist individuals and businesses impacted by tariffs.
The three-year initiative is funded by the Government of Canada through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario. Small and medium-sized businesses facing rising costs or lost revenue can secure up to $25,000 for projects that diversify supply chains or customer bases.
“At a time when the community needs us most our CF in partnership with FedNor has such an important role to play,” Hannah Caicco, executive director of the CDC, said.
The program starts with hands-on education before capital is distributed. STEP runs a free workshop series on business planning, bookkeeping, cash flow, scaling operations, artificial intelligence use, and international markets. Anyone launching a business through the initiative must complete a business planning workshop.
Funding covers up to half of eligible project costs, alongside loan options provided by the CDC.
Most funding requests receive a decision within two to four weeks. Staff members provide one-on-one consultations to help participants refine concepts from the initial intake call to the final report.
“This program is going to build bridges and open doors for displaced workers and businesses that are facing significant challenges due to tariffs,” Caicco said.
An official rollout of STEP by the CDC was scheduled for a complimentary Welcome Session on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, from 1:00 to 2:30 PM at 672 Queen Street East, where the CDC office is situated.
Applicants must first speak with staff to determine eligibility. Victor de Oliveira, project coordinator, handles inquiries at [email protected] or 705-206-9419, with details also available at ssmcdc.com/step.
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