Partners & Funders
The Ottawa Newcomer Entrepreneurs Hub (ONE Hub) is a five-year project led by the World Skills Employment Center. It is funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. The hub is dedicated to fostering the success of immigrant entrepreneurs and creating a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Goals and Collaboration Approach
ONE Hub is a transformative initiative aimed at removing barriers to self-employment. It helps newcomers start businesses and supports their integration into Ottawa. The hub offers training, business support, funding advice, networking, and mentorship to help newcomers succeed.
Activities
ONE Hub facilitates various activities and processes that empower clients and foster their entrepreneurial growth. Participants learn about Canadian business rules and gain confidence. They also receive guidance from experienced immigrant entrepreneurs. ONE Hub helps them pitch their ideas to investors and other key people.
Link to the Ottawa Immigration Strategy
ONE Hub works to remove obstacles for newcomers who want to start businesses. It supports current and aspiring entrepreneurs in Ottawa. This goal aligns with priority number three of the ‘Economic Integration’ sector, which focuses on reducing barriers for small- and medium-sized businesses to hire immigrants.
The ONE Hub creates a supportive environment for newcomers to start and grow their businesses. It helps them integrate into the local economy and contribute to the community. ONE Hub empowers immigrant entrepreneurs through its efforts, enhances Ottawa’s business scene, and fosters a more inclusive and thriving city.
Timelines and Milestones
The hub started in April 2020 and continuously expands its support for newcomer entrepreneurs. In fall 2023, it launched an Incubation Program to provide enhanced training and support to clients ready to launch their businesses. This program will help newcomers with specialized guidance and networking.
Impact Areas and Client Outcomes
Yevheniia Rimikhanova from Ukraine came to Canada in 2021 with a dream to start a marketing agency. Armed with a degree in International Economics and over five years of digital marketing experience, Yevheniia had the skills but needed help understanding Canadian business rules and legal requirements. ONE Hub gave her the tools and knowledge to succeed. She now runs KOLO Agency, thanks to the hub’s help with business planning, market research, and registration.
Results (as of March 2025):
– 506 newcomers served
– 211financial consultations
– 250 business coaching sessions
– 223 mentorship matches
– 95 training courses and workshops
Conclusion
ONE Hub helps newcomers turn business dreams into reality. It provides training, support, and networking. The hub continues to grow, supporting immigrant entrepreneurs and boosting Ottawa’s economy.
