Know before you apply:
Read the Bridges to Better Business Application Guidelines and Selection Process.
Download and fill out a Business Model Canvas. This is required for your application.
All files are available to download from our google drive - access by by clicking below.
Application Guidelines
Mandatory Requirements
To be eligible for Bridges to Better Business, applicants must:
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Be based in the Algoma District.
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Be operating a business or have a clearly defined business concept they intend to launch in Algoma.
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Complete the application form in full and provide any requested supporting documentation.
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Be an independently owned business and not operate under a franchise agreement.
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Disclose any use of artificial intelligence (AI) in preparing their application. AI may be used as a support tool, but all information submitted must be accurate, truthful, and represent the applicant's own business, ideas, and experience.
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Previous applicants are welcome to apply; however, businesses that have previously won first or second place in the Bridges to Better Business Pitch Competition are not eligible.
Priority Considerations
While businesses at any stage of development are welcome to apply, preference may be given to:
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Businesses that have been operating for three years or less.
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Businesses generating annual revenues between $30,000 and $5 million, aligning with Statistics Canada's definition of a small business.
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Businesses employing 99 people or fewer, aligning with the Business Development Bank of Canada's definition of a small business.
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Businesses demonstrating strong potential for growth, innovation, community impact, and long-term sustainability within the Algoma District.
Selection Process
Stage 1: Application (Business Model Canvas)
Interested businesses submit an application online including a Business Model Canvas.
Applications are reviewed and scored by the selection committee.
Top 5 applicants advance to Stage 2.
Stage 2: Video Pitch + Financials
The Top 5 are invited to bring their idea to life:
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A short video pitch showcasing their business
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A cash flow forecast
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Both are scored by the selection committee.
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Videos are also shared to gather votes from the public.
At this stage:
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Selection committee votes account for 70% of your score
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Public voting accounts for 30% of your score
All Top 5 applicants will be offered complimentary booth in the Trade Show.
Top 2 applicants move on to the live finale.
Final Stage: Live Pitch Event
The Top 2 finalists pitch live in front of a panel of judges and a live audience at the Bridges to Better Business event.
At this stage:
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Judges votes account for 70% of your score
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Audience voting accounts for 30% of your score
Highest scoring competitor walks away with $15,000 cash plus services, and the runner-up receives $5,000 cash plus services.
