Comprehensive Business Planning

Developed by the entrepreneur with guidance from the mentor and assistance from counsellor/consultant. Costs associated with this element include mentor out-of-pocket and communications and travel costs; consultant per diem costsand expense, associated report production and audio-videopresentation costs are also eligible.

Market Access Initiatives

Funding under this element can only be accessed through the recommendation of the mentor. It will under write the cost of producing a market distribution presentation, as well as the travel or communications costs associated with the entrepreneur and the mentor presenting it to the identified or endorsed market channel contact.

Management Expertise Recruitment

Funding under this element is available only through the recommendation  of the mentor. The initial recruitment activities will be conducted by  video-conferencing. The costs of final negotiation may include travel  costs for the candidate or travel costs for the entrepreneur and the  mentor as well as other associated interview costs. The program will  not underwrite any salary costs or signing bonuses. It is anticipated  that these costs will be financed from subsequent private sector  investment which will be raised, in part because of the identified  and recruited experienced management personnel. In exceptional  circumstances, and only at the recommendation of the mentor, the  program may pay for the cost of a headhunter. 

Raising Private Sector Investment

The costs associated with identifying and approaching potential investors are eligible for program assistance. The costs of communications with potential investors and of making video-conference presentations are acceptable as well as roundtable presentations to potential "angel" investors. If initiated by the mentor, the program will underwrite the cost of travel for both the entrepreneur and the mentor to make a presentation to or negotiate with the potential investor. It will also pay for the out-of-pocket cost of the presentation production and materials. Operation MENTOR will also directly underwrite the cost of promoting and pursuing the establishment/registration in the province of "information technology oriented" venture capital funds.