Self-Employ PEI

For unemployed Islanders who have a business idea but need financial stability to get it off the ground, Self-Employ PEI offers a practical bridge between job seeking and entrepreneurship. This initiative from SkillsPEI is designed to help individuals in Prince Edward Island focus on launching a new business without the immediate pressure of replacing their income. Instead of traditional startup grants tied to project costs, the program supports entrepreneurs personally during the early, high-risk stage of self-employment.

Through Self-Employ PEI, approved participants can receive ongoing income support during their first year in business, typically through a weekly living allowance, Employment Insurance benefits, or a mix of both. This structure allows new founders to devote full-time hours to building and testing their business while maintaining financial security. Beyond income support, the program also includes business counselling and guidance, helping participants refine their plans, validate their ideas, and improve their chances of long-term viability. In some cases, additional help may be available for professional consulting to strengthen areas like marketing, operations, or financial planning.

The program is open to a wide range of startup ideas across industries, as long as the business has not yet launched and meets certain requirements. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis, beginning with an information session and planning process. For job seekers in PEI who are serious about self-employment, exploring the full details of Self-Employ PEI can clarify whether this support fits your path into business ownership.