Mark Wilson, an entrepreneur from North Bay, has launched “The Money Project” to help build resilient local businesses with a focus on community development. Wilson’s project will help fuel businesses in North Bay and create local jobs.

The Money Project is a charity founded by Mark Wilson to support local businesses with grants and interest-free loans. Wilson is also offering mentorship to North Bay residents who want to start or grow community-focused businesses. The Money Project emphasizes helping entrepreneurs without access to traditional financing through banks or family wealth.

Wilson shared that “We’re not chasing the next tech unicorn. Our goal is to help build resilient local businesses and create local jobs. The Money Project is here to give early-stage businesses the traction they need through capital, guidance, and a belief in what they’re building.”

Wilson has run a successful freight business and is a majority owner of Envision, a Canadian design-build architectural signage company. Wilson and his wife, Gillian Kennedy, moved to Canada in 2009 and chose North Bay as their home.

Wilson started The Money Project to give back and support people with good business ideas who are facing challenges like a lack of funding, connections, or training. His program offers small loans, usually between $10,000 and $30,000, along with guidance and support. He is funding the project himself for now and hopes to help local people turn their ideas into successful businesses while giving back to a community he cares about.

Source: David Briggs, BayToday