Our Programs

Practical, community-led support for Black entrepreneurs, creatives, and businesses at every stage of their journey.

01

Startup Bootstrapping Support

You have the idea. You have the drive. But getting a business off the ground — especially without access to a network of advisors or capital — is genuinely hard. That's where we come in.

We work directly with Black founders and entrepreneurs to help them structure their business, build operational basics, develop their brand, and move from "idea" to "actually launched." No expensive consultants, no gatekeeping — just real, practical support from people who get it.

Business Structure Branding Operations Strategy Mentorship
02

Funding & Grants Navigation

There is more money available for Black-owned businesses than most people know — but the information is scattered, the applications are complex, and most founders don't have time to dig. We do that work for you.

Roots Toronto maintains an active map of grants, community investment opportunities, and funding programs specifically for Black entrepreneurs and creatives in Ontario and Canada. We help you identify what you qualify for, prepare your applications, and understand what comes after the money lands.

Grants Research Application Support Ontario Programs Federal Funding Community Investment
03

Black Music & Culture Industry Support

Toronto is one of the most important cities for Black music and culture in the world. We're here to make sure the people creating that culture can actually build sustainable careers and businesses from it.

Whether you're an independent artist, a label, a promoter, a creative agency, or a cultural venue — we offer support tailored to the realities of the culture industry: licensing basics, business formation for artists, industry connections, and community amplification so your work reaches the audience it deserves.

Independent Artists Music Business Licensing Creative Agencies Promotion
04

GTA Black Business Network

Wealth and opportunity travel through networks. We're building a living, active network of Black-owned businesses, entrepreneurs, and creatives across the Greater Toronto Area — so that when someone needs a designer, a caterer, a lawyer, a developer, or a supplier, they're connected to a Black-owned option first.

Members of the Roots Toronto network get access to peer connections, referrals, collaborative opportunities, and a community of people who understand what it means to build in this city.

Networking B2B Referrals Collaboration GTA Directory Community

Ready to get started?

Reach out and tell us about your project, business, or idea. We'll figure out together how Roots Toronto can support you.

Get in Touch

Built for the full spectrum of Black business

Our programs are designed for anyone building something rooted in Black culture, creativity, or entrepreneurship in the GTA.

Entrepreneurs & Founders

Early-stage and growing Black-owned businesses across all industries — from food and retail to tech and professional services.

Musicians & Artists

Independent artists, producers, creatives, and cultural workers building sustainable careers in Toronto's vibrant culture scene.

Community Organizers

Leaders building organizations, initiatives, and movements that strengthen the Black community across the GTA.

Have a question about our programs?

We're always happy to talk. If you're not sure which program is right for you, just reach out — we'll point you in the right direction.