YCEo
Launch a career pathway that feeds your independence and creativity.
8-week, virtual, business training
application open
application open
What is YCEO?
YCEO is the best first step in your entrepreneurial journey. It’s an 8-week virtual business training program that helps aspiring entrepreneurs like you figure out where and how to start.
launch your business with these benefits.
Supportive community that champions your journey
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SMART goal-setting with your business launch in sight
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Knowledgeable staff that take your questions seriously
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Opportunities to grow your leadership skills
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Remote business training from wherever you learn best
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Encouraging mentors to help you to stop doubting yourself
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we’re here to help you figure out your business idea.
We know that the entrepreneur journey can be scary, especially if you feel judged or worry about what getting started looks like. We’re here to help you set SMART goals, key deadlines and deliverables to figure it out. The YCEO program is here to energize and encourage you to start betting on yourself to win big with your business idea.
MORE WINS WAITING FOR YOU.
Exactly-what-you-need business training from experienced entrepreneurs
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Mentors who work alongside you to ensure you get the most out of the experience
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Expert facilitation from instructors who have been right where you are now
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Access to $1K grant opportunities for businesses and professional development
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“Oftentimes, I felt incapable of running a business. I always felt like I was the only person in the room who didn't understand business jargon, that I was too young and small, and didn't have enough credentials to even be doing this. BITS changed that. I am so glad I took this program, and would recommend it to all entrepreneurs!”
—Jazel dela Paz
“If you're an aspiring entrepreneur and have an idea you want to make happen but don't know where to start, take advantage of this awesome resource. I really wish I had applied to the YCEO program much earlier in my journey! Thank you BITS for being so supportive and helping me validate my business idea!”
—Jamila Doncher
Your next mentor is here.
Nelson Lemonde
YCEO Mentor
President of HGexpress
Hewan Wossene
YCEO Mentor
Founder of PIAVE Inc.
Hannah Towle
YCEO Mentor
Founder of Pursuade Me
is this program right for you?
You are eligible for this program if you…
Are 18 to 34
Live in Canada (priority will be given to applicants who live in Ontario)
Are a Canadian Citizen, Permanent Resident, or Temporary Resident*
Have a business idea and need help getting started
Already have a business but need help making consistent sales
Have a personal net income of less than $35,000 per year
*Funding programs are only available for Canadian Citizens and Permanent Residents
Here’s what to expect*
Saturday, January 25th 2025
Week 1 (10am to 1pm) - Orientation
Saturday, February 1st 2025
Week 2 (10am to 1pm) - Introduction, Validation, Business Model Canvas
Saturday, February 8th 2025
Week 3 (10am to 1pm) - Minimum Viable Product
Saturday, February 22nd 2025
Week 4 (10am to 1pm) - SWOT Analysis & Customer Profile
Saturday, March 1st 2025
Week 5 (10am to 1pm) - Positioning & Sales
Saturday, March 8th 2025
Week 6 (10am to 1pm) - Marketing & SMART Goals
Saturday, March 15th 2025
Week 7 (10am to 1pm) - Budgets & Business Presentations
Tuesday, March 18th 2025
Ask An Entrepreneur Panel (6pm to 9pm)
Saturday, March 22, 2025
Graduation and Pitch Day (10am to 3pm)
*Our programs are short, so we ask you only join if you can attend key dates and at least 80% of class sessions.
Case study: She went in as an artist and came out as a business owner
Fernanda immigrated to Canada from Peru with a love of art and a need to transform it into a self-owned business with consistent sales. She came to BITS to make that happen. In just a few short weeks, she graduated with a YCEO certificate, a supportive community, a mentor and a way to fund her immigration process without worry.
Applications open
Applications open
If you’re ready to take your dreams seriously and step into your potential – join the next cohort of YCEO.