TD Bank Group has donated $500,000 to the Atlantic chapter of Futurpreneur Canada to support its efforts to support and educate young entrepreneurs in the region over the next three years.

The contribution will allow more Atlantic Canadian entrepreneurs to build their confidence, skills and start-up resources through Futurpreneur Canada’s services, said the organization in a statement. These services include the successful Owners Wanted initiative, which gives entrepreneurs in Atlantic Canada the support they need to turn their business ideas into reality through educational and networking opportunities.

“We are thrilled to be working alongside Futurpreneur Canada to help more young people access the start-up resources, business financing and mentoring needed to launch and grow a more successful business,” said Scott Belton, TD’s Senior Vice-President for the Atlantic Region. “Having already supported the launch of over 1,000 new businesses in Atlantic Canada through its proven Start-up Program, Futurpreneur is well-positioned to enhance the Atlantic entrepreneurship community.”

Added Hugh MacKay, Ministerial Assistant to the Minister of Business for Nova Scotia: “This partnership will help more young people in Atlantic Canada acquire the skills and connections they need to start businesses and take on the world.” 

Futurpreneur is seeing more young people pursuing entrepreneurship as a career option. TD's investment in young people highlights the value of corporate and other partners working together to support young entrepreneurs, said Futurpreneur’s statement.

Futurpreneur Canada has offered a range of programs to support young entrepreneurs since 1996. As the only national, non-profit organization that provides financing, mentoring and support tools to aspiring business owners aged 18 to 39, it has supported more than 10,000 young people to date.

Futurpreneur’s mentoring program matches young entrepreneurs with a business expert from a network of almost 3,000 volunteer mentors. Futurpreneur is a founding member of the G20 Young Entrepreneurs’ Alliance, the Canadian member of Youth Business International, and the Canadian host of Global Entrepreneurship Week.

“To ensure a strong future for Canada and small business, it is vital for governments at all levels and corporate partners to actively support the success of young entrepreneurs,” said John Risley, Chair of Futurpreneur Canada’s Board of Directors. “The efforts of both TD Bank Group and the Government of Nova Scotia demonstrate how all sectors can work together to see entrepreneurship succeed.”