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.
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All files are available to download from our google drive - access by by clicking below.
Application Guidelines
Mandatory Requirements
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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.
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Priority Considerations
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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Highest scoring competitor walks away with $15,000 cash plus services, and the runner-up receives $5,000 cash plus services.
