Like
Overview
Where successful entrepreneurs begin!
Entrepreneurs have vision, passion, determination and the willingness to explore new opportunities.
The Self Employment Program offers practical training, business advice and group support to help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to start and operate a successful business. Income support is also available to those who qualify.
The success of the Douglas College Self Employment Program lies with its people. The SE Team members are entrepreneurs, who contribute their individual areas of expertise to assist you in building a solid foundation. The proof of this success is that ninety-five percent of those who completed the Douglas College Self Employment program one year ago are still in business today and after four years 72 percent are still in business. The provincial average is 77% the first year and only 41% after four years. Since 1995, more than 3,000 businesses have been launched through the SE Program. Douglas College has the largest self employment program in the Lower Mainland, offered at both the Coquitlam and New Westminster campuses.
You will work with experienced Business Advisors, in an adult learning environment, to prepare you for the challenges of starting your new business. You will develop a sound business plan and the management skills to make it happen. An effective Business Plan begins with solid research.
Why choose Douglas College?
- attend a well-respected educational institution that has been in the community for more than 40 years and serves more than 17,000 learners (full-time and part-time) at two campuses
- fast start, you could be up and running in as little as three weeks
- continuous Intakes with a new class starting every two to three weeks
- be confident in our proven, long term success (over 15 years and 3,000 graduates)
- experienced entrepreneurs teach and share practical business advice
- receive income support for up to 48 weeks while you start your business
- network with our more than 3,000 alumni
- participate in our Business Directory, Networking Events and Entrepreneur Awards (pdf)
- the Self Employment Program is ISO 9001:2000 certified to ensure that you can trust our accountability at all levels and our consistent customer service
Getting started:
Attend an information session in your area, where you will learn more about the program. Choose from one of sixteen held each month.
Phase One: Business Plan Development . Prepare a comprehensive and practical business plan using our unique, modular planning process. Receive individual consultation and feedback on your business plan.
Phase Two: Business Skills Development Seminars . During four weeks of seminars, you will learn from industry experts how to successfully start and manage your business.
Phase Three: Ongoing Coaching and Mentoring. Work at your business, receive realistic advice and support from your business advisor, attend Round Table sessions for networking and inspiration and participate in Success Circle meetings for brainstorming and support.
Eligibility is based on guidelines set out by the Ministry of Social Development:
- have an active Employment Insurance (EI) claim; or have had a claim in the past 36 months; or have been on a maternity/parental claim in the past 60 months
- legally entitled to work in Canada
- not already in business
- start a business that is NEW to you
- be prepared to make an investment in your business
- provide proof of majority ownership of the business (at least 51 percent) if in a partnership
When you start the Douglas College Self Employment Program, you join one of the largest and most successful entrepreneurial training programs in Canada.
How can I get more information?
Call us:
- 604-777-6012 - North Fraser Program - David Lam Coquitlam Campus
- 604-527-5020 - Greater Vancouver Program - New Westminster Campus
Email:
- sep@douglascollege.ca - North Fraser Program - David Lam Coquitlam Campus
- sepgv@douglascollege.ca - Greater Vancouver Program - New Westminster Campus
