FastStart | Durham College

What is FastStart?

What can FastStart offer to me?

FastStart DC provides entrepreneurial services and training programs, including:

Training: All FastStart student entrepreneurs get free access to FS360 – an online course that includes a series of modules to help students map out their business ideas and encourages them to think critically about their business model.

Mentorship & Coaching: Our experienced team of coaches and faculty advisors work with you one-on-one to help guide you to successfully launch your business.

Workshops & Seminars: Our New Skills Workshop Series provides training and insights into key topics areas. You will hear from local experts and entrepreneurs who will share their first-hand knowledge to help prepare you for success.

Competitions and Boot Camps: You will develop the confidence you need to succeed in business by participating in competitions that are available throughout the year. These include pitch competitions where you’ll have the opportunity to share your business ideas as you vie for prizes.

Peer-to-peer Marketing Support: Student advisors are available in-house for you to use as a resource; feel free to walk in and bounce ideas off of them. They can help you think about your idea or venture in a different light and also provide insight into many different areas regarding your business. Our FastStart team can also help you build your marketing assets, including logo design, photography, videography, social media communications, and website development.

Space and Resources: FastStartDC has space for you to connect, collaborate and work. Whether you are ready to go to market, are starting from the beginning or looking to elevate your current business, help is available each step of the way.

Opportunities & Partner Perks: FastStart provides student entrepreneurs to access to networking events and connections to our industry partners, including: Ontario Power Generation’s X-Lab, Spark Centre, Futurpreneur Canada, OWNR, or the Business Advisory Centre Durham (BACD), where students can find additional services and support for their businesses. FastStart also has a partnership with Shopify where student entrepreneurs can receive free access to the e-commerce platform for one year. FastStart also gives students the opportunity to showcase their products and services in pop-up markets and online marketplaces.

Why should I create a start-up business?

I have a business idea. What should I do now?

How do I know that my idea is safe?

Where is FastStart DC located?

What are your hours of operation?

Who is eligible to access FastStart DC services?

Where can I get funding for my start-up?

How much does it cost to participate in FastStart services?

Who can I contact to help me get started?

How can I learn more about FastStart?