Go To Market Incubator Program
Small Business Centre | London
Small Business Centre | London
The London Small Business Centre has launched the Go To Market Incubator, a new program designed to support individuals facing barriers entering the business ecosystem by preparing them to sell their products at markets and festivals. The program is delivered in partnership with Libro Credit Union, reflecting a shared focus on building resilient local businesses and thriving communities.
Next Cohort Winter 2027: Application are now opened
Go To Market Incubator Program
Farmers’ markets and festivals are often the first real sales channel for new businesses — but without preparation, entrepreneurs face financial risk, compliance challenges, and burnout.
The Go To Market Incubator Program introduces and equips participants with practical knowledge and provides the essential skills and guidance needed to launch and grow a business in this manner. It is an experiential program where entrepreneurs test, learn, and refine their products in real-world market settings.
The Program Supports Entrepreneurs To:
- Make informed decisions
- Understand the true cost of market participation
- Price products for profit and growth
- Navigate permits, insurance, and regulations
- Plan inventory and operations
- Build strong customer experiences
- Scaling from pop-ups to e-commerce or storefront models
Who is this program for?
Individuals who:
- Are starting a business and looking to introduce and test a new product (food, beverage, artisanal, home decor, fashion & accessories,
personal care & wellness) - Intend to use farmers’ markets and/or festivals in the London region* as a market entry point
- Face barriers entering the business ecosystem, including newcomers, visible minorities, and racialized persons
* The selection of farmers’ markets and festivals will be reviewed in collaboration with a business advisor.
What to expect?
Training, Coaching & Networking
1. In-person workshops on:
- Market-entry strategy and business model validation
- Brand development and Market-ready signage
- Customer engagement and selling techniques
- Regulatory and market compliance
- Financial literacy, pricing, budgeting, and cash flow management
- Scaling beyond markets: e-commerce and storefront readiness
2. One-on-one coaching with a business advisor
Ongoing.
3. Peer networking meet-ups
Learn from other entrepreneurs and subject matter experts.
4. Shared-cost access to vendor spaces
Financial assistance will vary based on the number of participants ($400-$800 per participant).
Critical Dates
Application deadline: January 15th, 2027
In-person workshops:
Dates: February 1st, 8th & 22nd, March 1st & 8th | Time: 1 pm – 4 pm
Location: London Small Business Centre – 900 King Street, London, ON
“Markets are an important starting point for many entrepreneurs, but success requires more than a good idea. Go To Market helps entrepreneurs understand their costs, pricing, compliance requirements, and operational realities before they sell. With Libro’s support, we’re able to provide practical, accessible guidance that helps businesses start smart and build for the long term.”
Steve Pellarin, Executive Director of the London Small Business Centre.
About the London Small Business Centre
Since its inception in 1986 as a not-for-profit organization, the London Small Business Centre has provided thousands of entrepreneurs with the training and support necessary to start and grow successful businesses. From concept, through start-up and early growth stages of business, the Centre offers guidance and professional advice on starting and running a successful business.