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<p><strong>Update April 29th, 2024: Please note that the Support for Self-Employment Measure will be unavailable starting May 1st, 2024.</strong></p> <p></p> <p><em>Do you want to become a freelancer or a self-employed worker? If the answer is yes, what is holding you back? For many people, financial insecurity remains what prevents them from leaping. Do you know you might have access to services and programs to help you start your business? Do you know about the SSE? Let us see more closely what you need to know about the Support for Self-Employment measure.</em></p> <p></p> <h3>What is the SSE?</h3> <p>The <a href="https://www.quebec.ca/en/employment/support-self-employment" target="_blank">Support for Self-Employment Measure</a>, or SSE, is a governmental initiative providing support and help to those who want to become entrepreneurs or self-employed workers. On one side, they offer guidance to help you create a business plan and launch your company. On the other, they provide financial support equal to the minimum wage for a maximum duration of 52 weeks to help you focus on your project full-time.</p> <p></p> <h3>Who is eligible for the SSE?</h3> <p>It is important to mention that there are several eligibility criteria to have access to the Support for Self-Employment Measure; not everyone can access this measure. To be eligible, you must convince that your project is viable and meets a local need while ensuring that it does not create unfair competition for businesses in the area. You must be able to commit to spending at least 35 hours per week on your project. You must also have some experience or skills related to the business you want to create and be free from bankruptcy judgment.</p> <p>According to the government website, this measure is made for people receiving employment insurance benefits or social assistance and those who do not receive any government income support or have precarious employment. To sum it up, it is a measure created to help people without a job to start a business and be active in the workforce. Consequently, if you already have a job and want to become a freelancer or a self-employed person, it is possible that your request is denied, especially if you work in a field where there is a labor shortage or if you are a member of a professional order. The eligibility factors also change from time to time depending on the region&rsquo;s needs; therefore, you must discuss it with an employment counselor to see its relevancy. All requests are then ranked in order of priority.</p> <p>For example, someone who wants to create a translating business might be rejected in Rimouski but accepted in Gatineau since requests and eligibility depend from one region to another. You are responsible for convincing that your potential business can bring something to the community. You must then take the time to search and analyze the market before applying to the SSE.&nbsp;</p> <p></p> <h3>How to apply to the SSE?</h3> <p>If you meet all eligibility criteria of the Support for Self-Employment Measure, you can communicate with a Services Quebec office. They are located all over the province. These offices work with RCM and local employment centers that can help you with your application. Whether you live in Laval, Mont-Joli, or Saint-Hyacinthe, many organizations can give you a hand with this program.</p> <p>Then, these organizations will have to analyze your project. You will have to convince them about its potential to get the SSE. Consequently, prepare yourself accordingly.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p></p> <h3>What can you do if you are not eligible for the SSE?</h3> <p>If your request was declined or did not meet the requirements, it does not mean your project of becoming a self-employed person or a freelancer is impossible. Other options exist.</p> <p>First, learn more about available commercial loans and guidance regarding creating businesses. For example, Evol, formerly Femmessor, provides loans and helps create inclusive, fair, and durable industries. On its side, the SADC and CAE are responsible for the economic development of Quebec regions by supporting local projects. You can also look at initiatives like the OSEntreprendre challenge to access many tools and business opportunities. Do not hesitate to visit a local employment center near you to see the available options in your area.</p> <p>Finally, based on the testimonials of several freelancers and self-employed people displayed on <a href="https://www.momenteo.com/blog/" target="_blank">Momenteo&rsquo;s blog</a>, starting a business while having a job is possible. Although it requires more work and organizational skills, it has the main benefit of having a stable income when you work on your project. When you finally have sufficient income, you can become a full-time freelancer. Nothing prevents you from having a side job when you start or face quieter periods. Many freelancers do it or did it throughout their professional journey.&nbsp;</p> <p></p> <p>In conclusion, not everyone is eligible for the Support for Self-Employment Measure, but you can always contact your local employment center to learn more about all the available programs; some might have been created especially for your region. It will be vital to ask yourself many questions to see if you are ready to <a href="https://www.momenteo.com/blog/11-tips-if-you-want-to-become-a-freelancer-or-a-selfemployed-worker" target="_blank">become a freelancer</a> and if your project meets a need. Good luck!</p>