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SME PACK — Startup & Growth Advisory

Startup & Growth Advisory

Access free and low-cost mentorship programs from experienced business advisors. Whether you're just starting out or scaling your team, the right mentor can save you years of painful trial and error.

Free mentorship programsFunding + advisory combinedQuebec & Canada-wide

Advisory Organizations

Three organizations offering free or subsidized mentorship and advisory services for SMEs at every stage.

SCORE
America's largest network of volunteer business mentors — free, confidential mentoring for SME owners at any stage.
Free Mentorship
Futurpreneur Canada
Financing, mentorship, and resources for Canadian entrepreneurs aged 18–39. Up to $60,000 in startup loans with a mentor.
Canadian Youth Founders
PME MTL
Montreal's business development network offering free advisory services, funding referrals, and business support for SMEs.
Montreal SMEs

What Good Advisory Looks Like

These are the advisory areas where experienced mentors deliver the highest ROI for SME founders.

Business Model Validation

Work with an experienced mentor to stress-test your business model, identify your ideal customer profile, and refine your value proposition before you invest significant capital.

Growth Strategy Planning

Map out a 12–36 month growth roadmap with a mentor who has scaled businesses in your industry. Identify which markets to enter, which channels to prioritize, and which metrics to track.

Startup Launch Preparation

First-time founders benefit enormously from experienced advisors who have already made the mistakes you're about to make. Avoid costly pitfalls in product development, hiring, and pricing.

Team & Hiring Strategy

Build your first team with confidence. Advisors can help you decide between hiring employees vs. contractors, structure compensation, and create a culture that retains top talent.

Market Expansion

When you're ready to grow beyond your local market, advisors with international trade experience can guide your entry into new provinces or countries — including African markets via the 9QC Trade Platform.

Investor Readiness

If you plan to raise outside funding, advisors can help you prepare your pitch deck, understand term sheets, build financial models, and connect you with relevant investors and grant programs.

How to Get the Most from a Mentor

1Come with a specific challenge — not just a vague 'I need help with my business'
2Do your research first — mentors are more valuable when you've already thought through the basics
3Show up consistently — most programs require 2–4 sessions before value compounds
4Be honest about failures — the best advisors help you dissect what went wrong, not just celebrate wins
5Take notes and action — implement at least one recommendation before your next session

Futurpreneur Canada — Loan + Mentor Combo

Futurpreneur Canada is one of the most powerful programs available to young Canadian entrepreneurs. It combines up to $20,000 in startup financing (matched by BDC for a total of $60,000) with two years of dedicated mentorship from an experienced business professional.

Age: 18–39 years old
Financing: $10,000–$20,000 (+ $40,000 from BDC)
Duration: Up to 2 years of mentorship
Mentor matching: Within 30 days of approval
Industries: Open to most business types
Quebec applicants: Apply at futurpreneur.ca
Business plan required: Yes (templates provided)
Repayment: Start at month 13
Apply to Futurpreneur Canada

PME MTL — Montreal's Business Support Network

PME MTL is a network of six local business development agencies covering all boroughs of Montreal. It offers free advisory services, access to financing, coaching, and networking events — built specifically for Montreal SMEs.

Free business advisory sessions — no wait lists
Referrals to local and provincial financing programs
Export development and market expansion guidance
Support in French and English
Startup launch support and business plan review
Technology adoption coaching (digital transformation)
Visit PME MTL

Request Advisory Matching

Tell us about your business stage and advisory needs. We'll help match you with the right program or mentor network for your situation.

Personalized program recommendation
Introductions to relevant mentors in your industry
Support with application documents for Futurpreneur or PME MTL

Request Advisory Matching

The Right Mentor Changes Everything

A good mentor doesn't just give advice — they open doors, prevent mistakes, and hold you accountable to the growth you said you wanted.

Apply to Futurpreneur Visit PME MTL