ABOUT US

Empowering People. Launching Ideas. 

Rise is a Canadian organization that empowers individuals with mental health and addiction challenges to become entrepreneurs and transform their lives. We invest in people and their potential nationwide.   

Why? Mental health significantly impacts Canadians’ financial and social well-being. In any given year, one in five Canadians will experience a mental health challenge. Amongst the population of people with disabilities, those with a mental illness face the highest degree of stigmatization in the workplace and the greatest barriers to employment (CAMH). 

Entrepreneurship is a powerful catalyst for change. 

Through flexible financing, training, mentorship, and other tailored supports, Rise enables individuals to learn the skills and access the capital they need to build a small business for meaningful employment, economic empowerment and personal well-being. 

Since 2010, Rise has disbursed more than 1,000 loans totaling over $4.1 million. With the support of more than 675 volunteers, we have empowered 5,000+ people as entrepreneurs, strengthening communities across Canada.  

The impact is undeniable. 

Four out of five Rise clients remain in business five years after receiving a Rise loan, demonstrating their resilience as entrepreneurs. However, client success extends beyond traditional business metrics. Entrepreneurship is a vehicle for individuals to take control of their lives, boost their confidence and redefine success. 

According to the 2024 Rise Social Impact Results: 

• 83% of clients reported business growth in the past 12 months 

• 80% of clients are more confident taking on new challenges 

• 3 in 4 clients now feel a greater sense of purpose in their life’s direction  

• 87% feel optimistic about their personal growth 

Together, we are changing lives and strengthening communities by unleashing the entrepreneurial spirit of all Canadians with mental health and addiction challenges. 

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OUR MISSION

Rise empowers Canadians with mental health and addiction challenges to achieve greater economic and social inclusion through entrepreneurship training, small business loans and custom supports.

OUR VISION

Strengthening communities by unleashing the entrepreneurial spirit of all Canadians with mental health and addiction challenges.

OUR VALUES