My Journey with Starter Company Plus: Growing Kayla Le Franc Photo


As a passionate photographer and entrepreneur in Peterborough, Ontario, I’ve always dreamed of growing my business into something truly special. That dream took a huge step forward in Fall 2024 when I was accepted into the Starter Company Plus program through Community Futures Peterborough. This opportunity has been a game-changer for me, and I’m excited to share my experience with fellow creatives and small business owners who might be considering the program themselves!


What is Starter Company Plus?

For those unfamiliar, Starter Company Plus is a government-funded program designed to help entrepreneurs grow and scale their businesses. Supported by the Government of Ontario, this initiative provides training, mentorship, and financial support to small business owners. You can learn more about the program through these resources:


When I applied, I knew the program would provide financial support (up to $5000!), but what I didn’t expect was how much mentorship, business training, and networking opportunities would help shape my business.


How Starter Company Plus Helped My Business

Photography has always been my passion, but running a photography business requires so much more than just taking beautiful photos. Thanks to Starter Company Plus, I’ve gained valuable insights into marketing strategies, financial planning, and business operations. The program’s workshops and one-on-one mentorship sessions have helped me refine my branding, strengthen my business model, and set realistic growth goals.

One of the biggest advantages has been learning how to market myself more effectively. Through the program, I developed a strategy to target new clients, invest in digital advertising, and build strong connections within the local Peterborough business community. This has already paid off in the form of increased bookings and greater brand recognition.


Investing in the Future of Kayla Le Franc Photo

With the support of the Starter Company Plus grant, I’ve been able to invest in essential business tools, including upgrading my camera gear and launching a targeted advertising campaign to expand my reach. These investments are directly contributing to the growth of Kayla Le Franc Photo and helping me offer an even better experience to my clients.

Additionally, this program has fueled another exciting milestone—opening my first-ever photography studio! Located in the historic Commerce Building in downtown Peterborough, my studio will provide a dedicated space for portrait sessions, branding photography, and creative collaborations. This wouldn’t have been possible without the knowledge and support I gained through Starter Company Plus.


My Fellow Fall 2024 Cohort Members

One of the best parts of this journey has been connecting with other amazing entrepreneurs. Here’s a list of the incredible business owners in my cohort:


Being part of this group has been an incredible experience, and I’m so grateful to have learned alongside these inspiring entrepreneurs.


Why You Should Apply to Starter Company Plus

If you’re an entrepreneur in Peterborough looking to take your business to the next level, I highly recommend applying for the next cohort of Starter Company Plus. Whether you need funding, mentorship, or a solid business foundation, this program offers everything you need to succeed.

Exciting news! The next Starter Company Plus cohort is now accepting applications. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable business skills, mentorship, and financial support! Learn more and apply today through Community Futures Peterborough.

Thank you to Community Futures Peterborough, my mentors, and my fellow Fall 2024 cohort members for making this such a rewarding experience. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for my business and for all the amazing entrepreneurs growing alongside me!

Interested in professional portrait, wedding, or branding photography in Peterborough? Let’s connect! Visit my website or book a session today.


#StarterCompanyPlus #PeterboroughEntrepreneurs #KaylaLeFrancPhoto #SmallBusinessGrowth

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