Grants and Funding for Young Entrepreneurs in Canada for 2026
Financial support helps young entrepreneurs build and expand their businesses.
Starting a business can be challenging for young entrepreneurs. Support programs help them overcome financial barriers.
492 opportunities available
Grant and FundingOpen
Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP) — Financial Assistance
Funding support for SME research, development and commercialization
Grant and FundingOpenClosing Soon
CanExport GAC-Led Delegations
Cost-sharing support for SMEs joining GAC-led trade delegations
Researchers And FacilitiesPartnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed
AgriScience Program – Clusters
Funding for agricultural research and innovation collaboration
Grant and FundingClosed
NovaScience Program - Support for projects in scientific culture and innovation
NovaScience promotes scientific culture and innovation development
Wage Subsidies And InternsOpen
Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP) — Youth Employment Program (YEP)
Money to hire a student
Grant and FundingOpen
Mitacs Accelerate International
Funding to collaborate with international researchers
Wage Subsidies And InternsOpen
Accueillez un stagiaire
Quebec internship wage subsidies for diverse student inclusion
Grant and FundingOpen
NRC IRAP – Support for clean technology
Funding for Canadian SMEs advancing innovative clean technology commercialization
Grant and FundingClosed
Canada Service Corps – Service Placements Regional Stream
Funding for organizations to develop youth volunteer service placements
Grant and FundingClosed
Rail Safety Improvement Program (RSIP) - Research and Education Component
Funding for rail safety infrastructure, research, and education projects
Researchers And FacilitiesPartnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingOpen
AgriScience Program – Projects
Supports innovative agricultural research to advance sector sustainability
Grant and FundingClosed
AgriRisk Initiatives - Microgrants Funding
Supports development of innovative agricultural risk management solutions
Grant and FundingClosed
AgriRisk Initiatives - Research and Development Contribution Funding
Supports development of new agricultural risk management tools
Grant and FundingClosed
Crime Prevention Action Fund (CPAF)
Supports evidence-based crime prevention initiatives for at-risk communities
Grant and FundingOpen
AgriAssurance Program – National Industry Association Component
Supports industry-led assurance systems for Canadian agriculture exports
Grant and FundingClosed
Substance Use and Addictions Program (SUAP)
Supports innovative projects addressing substance use prevention and treatment
Tax CreditsOpen
PAMT — Workplace Apprenticeship
Workplace Apprenticeship pairs experienced workers with apprentices
Grant and FundingClosed
Call for projects to combat homophobia and transphobia
Funds Quebec organizations’ projects combating homophobia and transphobia
Grant and FundingClosed
AgroPerformance – Stream 1 : Support for the agricultural sector in adopting agritechnologies
Supports Quebec farms adopting agritechnologies and priority equipment
Wage Subsidies And InternsClosed
BioTalent — Student Work Placement Program (SWPP)
Funding to hire co-ops in healthcare or bio-economy
Wage Subsidies And InternsOpen
Mitacs — Business Strategy Internship
Funding for R&D collaborations with students
Wage Subsidies And InternsClosed
ECO Canada — Science Horizons Youth Internship (SHI)
Subsidized environmental STEM intern
Wage Subsidies And InternsOpen
TECHNATION — Career Ready Program
Wage subsidy for developing tech talent
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Researchers And FacilitiesPartnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingOpening Soon
Forest Innovation Program
Funding innovation to transform and decarbonize Canada's forest sector
Loans and Capital investmentsOpen
Futurpreneur
Futurpreneur assists young entrepreneurs with resources and mentorship
Grant and FundingClosed
NovaScience Program — Support for employment in research and innovation
NovaScience supports innovation job integration in Quebec businesses
Grant and FundingClosed
Contribution Program to Combat Serious and Organized Crime (CPCSOC)
Supports initiatives combating serious and organized crime in Canada
Grant and FundingClosed
African Swine Fever Industry Preparedness Program (ASFIPP) - Prevention and Preparedness Stream
Supports preparedness and prevention strategies for African swine fever
Wage Subsidies And InternsOpen
ICTC — Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Digital
Wage subsidy for hiring post-secondary students
Grant and FundingOpen
Energir — Energy efficiency program – Implementation of efficiency measures
Supports implementation of energy-saving measures for natural gas users
Partnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed
International Climate Cooperation Program (ICCP)
Quebec Ministry of the Environment and the Fight Against Climate Change (MELCC), Ministry of Forests, Wildlife and Parks
Supports Quebec-driven climate action projects in francophone countries
Grant and FundingClosed
Youth Take Charge
Supports youth-led projects fostering Canadian engagement and identity
Grant and FundingClosed
Community Resilience Fund (CRF)
Supports organizations preventing and countering violent extremism in Canada
Partnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed
Aboriginal Aquatic Resource And Oceans Management (AAROM) Program
Supports Indigenous aquatic resource and oceans management capacity development
Grant and FundingOpen
Museum Assistance Program - Exhibition Circulation Fund
Supports museums hosting travelling exhibitions and borrowing artefacts
Grant and FundingOpen
REGI — Jobs and Growth Fund — CED (QC) — For profit
Money to future-proof your for-profit business in Quebec
Wage Subsidies And InternsOpen
Developing the next generation for skilled trades in advanced manufacturing
Subsidizes employer-led training placements for youth in advanced manufacturing
Grant and FundingOpen
FedDev Ontario — Economic Development Initiative (Southern Ontario) — Not-For-Profit
Assistance for Francophone projects in southern Ontario
Wage Subsidies And InternsOpen
Digital Skills for Youth Program (DS4Y)
Money for SMEs and non-profits to hire youth
Grant and FundingOpen
Hosting Program - Canada Games
Supports non-profit organizations hosting major national sporting events
Grant and FundingOpen
Northern Scientific Training Program (NSTP)
Supports northern research training for Canadian university students
Loans and Capital investmentsOpen
Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) — Business Scale-up and Productivity — ACOA
Financing to accelerate growth in Atlantic Canada
Grant and FundingOpen
Canada Arts Training Fund (CATF)
Supports high-level professional arts training for Canadian artists
Grant and FundingClosed
Promotional assistance for music and entertainment companies
Supports promotion and marketing for Quebec music and entertainment companies
Grant and FundingWage Subsidies And InternsClosed
Youth Employment and Skills Program
Wage subsidy for agricultural organizations
Wage Subsidies And InternsOpen
CCAA — Student Work Placement Program (SWPP)
Canada's program offers paid aviation internships for students
Grant and FundingClosed
Celebrate Canada Funding Program
Supports community activities celebrating Canadian culture and diversity
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Grant and FundingClosed
Agricultural Clean Technology Program - Adoption Stream
Supports adoption of clean technologies in Canadian agriculture sector
Grant and FundingClosed
Anti-Racism Action Program
Supports initiatives addressing racism, discrimination, and social barriers
Grant and FundingClosed
PADAAR — Measure 4074 – Relief group
Supports skill development for new and future agricultural producers
Partnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingWage Subsidies And InternsOpen
Official Languages Support Programs
Supports official language minority communities and promotes bilingualism
Grant and FundingOpen
Canada Book Fund Publishers Business Development — Business Planning
Funding for book publisher business planning
Grant and FundingOpen
Digital Main Street – Digital Transformation Grant Program
Funding to develop Ontario SMEs online presence
Tax CreditsWage Subsidies And InternsOpen
Tax credit for an on-the-job training period
Tax credit for Quebec businesses with trainees
Grant and FundingClosed
National Adaptation Strategy & Hydrologic prediction and innovation
Supports climate data, flood mapping, hydrologic prediction, hydrometry innovation
Grant and FundingExpert AdviceOpen
Youth Initiative to Combat Climate Change - Education and Awareness
Supports young Quebecers' climate action projects and awareness abroad
Wage Subsidies And InternsOpen
Clean Tech Internships
Internships supporting youth employment in clean technology sectors
Grant and FundingOpen
OTF — Organizational Mentors
Supports organizations mentoring grassroots groups to deliver funded projects
Grant and FundingClosed
Canada Service Corps Program - Micro-grants Diversity stream
Funding for youth-led community service projects supporting diversity
Wage Subsidies And InternsClosed
AGRI Talent
Supports student employment in Canada's agriculture sector through wage subsidies
Grant and FundingClosed
Cyber Security Cooperation Program 2025
Funding support for Canadian cyber security initiatives and innovation
Grant and FundingClosed
Funding for Social Development Partnerships Program – Children and Families – Social Inclusion of Vulnerable Children and Youth
Funds projects improving social inclusion and wellbeing for vulnerable youth
Grant and FundingClosed
Environmental Damages Fund
Funds projects that restore and protect Canada's natural environment
Wage Subsidies And InternsClosed
FESTQ - Student Funds 1 and 2
FESTQ grants employers to hire student interns
Grant and FundingClosed
Digital Citizen Research Program - Digital Citizen Contribution Program
Supports research and activities countering online disinformation in Canada
Wage Subsidies And InternsClosed
Young Canada Works in Both Official Languages — For-Profit
Wage subsidy for summer students
Grant and FundingOpen
Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI) — Prairie Provinces
Supports Prairie businesses impacted by trade tariffs and disruptions
Grant and FundingOpen
Exchanges Canada - Youth Exchanges Canada
Supports youth cultural and linguistic exchanges across Canada
Grant and FundingClosed
Exchanges Canada - Youth Forums Canada
Funding for youth-focused workshops and conferences in Canada
Grant and FundingClosed
Social and Community Initiatives Support Program (SCISP) – Social Initiatives Component
Funding for innovative social inclusion and employability projects
Grant and FundingOpen
Research Training and Talent Development
Supports research skill development for students and postdoctoral researchers
Expert AdviceLoans and Capital investmentsOpen
Quebec Business Transfer Fund
Loan for buyers in Quebec
Find tailored funding for your business
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Grant and FundingExpert AdviceOpen
Youth Initiative to Combat Climate Change - Entrepreneurship and Green Economy
Supports young Quebecers in entrepreneurship and green economy initiatives
Grant and FundingClosed
EcoAction - Community-led freshwater action across Canada Stream
Supports community projects improving freshwater quality and ecosystem health
Wage Subsidies And InternsClosed
Empowering Futures — Student Work Placement Program
Money for electricity firms to hire students
Wage Subsidies And InternsOpen
Digital Skills Internships
Internship wage subsidy for digital skill development
Partnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingExpert AdviceClosed
Scientific and Innovative Venture Program (SIVP)
Supports researchers launching innovative science-based businesses in Quebec
Other SupportExpert AdviceLoans and Capital investmentsOpen
Woman entrepreneur
Financing, advice and free resources for women-led businesses
Grant and FundingOpen
Black Youth Mentorship Program
Mentorship and supportive programming for Black youth
Researchers And FacilitiesPartnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingOpen
Artiste en résidence canadien en début de carrière dans le domaine de l'urbanisme
Year-long artist residency exploring key urban issues
Grant and FundingOpen
OTF — Economic Recovery and Resilience Fund
Supports Black youth pathways to jobs and entrepreneurship
Grant and FundingOpen
Nonprofit Transformation Partner Certification Program
Practical certification building nonprofit digital transformation and responsible AI skills
Grant and FundingOpen
Non-refundable contributions
Supports Indigenous business start-up, growth, and planning activities
Loans and Capital investmentsOpen
Agricultural investment fund mitissien (FAIM)
Flexible patient-capital financing for farm start-up and transfer
Other SupportGrant and FundingOpen
Future Foundation of Youth (FFY)
Supports youth-led community-impact projects with mentorship
Grant and FundingExpert AdviceLoans and Capital investmentsOpen
RCM Vallée-Du-Richelieu — Creavenir
Support and financing for young entrepreneurs in Vallée-du-Richelieu
Grant and FundingOpenClosing Soon
Operating Grant : Advancing 2S/LGBTQI+ Health Through Research
Supports community-engaged 2S/LGBTQI+ health research in Canada
Grant and FundingOpen
Grand Challenges Canada
Funding challenges for innovations that save and improve lives
Grant and FundingLoans and Capital investmentsOpen
MRC La Nouvelle-Beauce — Créavenir
Financial support for young entrepreneurs in Nouvelle-Beauce
Grant and FundingArchived
Business growth — Éco-Capitale
Support sustainable development projects that implement eco-responsible practices, covering up to 50% of eligible expenses.
Grant and FundingOpen
MRC Lac-Saint-Jean-Est — Rural Region Fund - Signature Innovation
Supporting innovative development for resilient, sustainable communities
Grant and FundingOpen
MRC Abitibi-Ouest — CRÉAVENIR Program
Créavenir supports young entrepreneurs in Abitibi-Ouest with financing
Grant and FundingClosed
PADAAR — Measure 4078 – Support for membership of a cooperative for the use of agricultural equipment (CUMA) and a cooperative for the replacement of agricultural labor
Supports Quebec farms joining equipment and labor cooperatives
Loans and Capital investmentsOpen
MRC La Nouvelle-Beauce — Futurpreneur
Funding support for young Canadian entrepreneurs aged 18-39
Grant and FundingClosed
Indigenous Arts Projects
Supports creation, development, and presentation of Indigenous arts projects
Grant and FundingClosed
Destination Clic – French Enrichment Program
Summer French immersion for francophone students outside Quebec
Grant and FundingOpen
First Nations Child and Family Services Program
Supports culturally appropriate child and family services for First Nations
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Frequently asked questions about grants and funding for young entrepreneurs in Canada
Discover key insights on grants for young entrepreneurs in Canada, including eligibility, funding types, application tips, and support resources.
What types of grants are available for young entrepreneurs in Canada?
There are several types of grants available, including startup grants, innovation funding, business expansion grants, and sector-specific financial aid. Some programs also offer mentorship and training in addition to financial support.
Who is eligible for grants for young entrepreneurs in Canada?
Eligibility criteria vary depending on the program but typically include factors such as age (usually 18 to 39), the nature of the business, location, and the viability of the business plan. Some grants are also targeted at underrepresented groups, such as women, Indigenous entrepreneurs, and newcomers.
Do grants need to be repaid?
No, grants do not require repayment. However, recipients must meet the terms and conditions of the funding, such as using the funds for specific business expenses and providing progress reports.
How can I find grants available for young entrepreneurs in Canada?
You can search for grants through government websites such as Canada Business Grants and Financing (Canada.ca), provincial business development programs, and organizations like Futurpreneur Canada.
What documents are required to apply for a grant?
Most grant applications require a detailed business plan, a budget forecast, proof of business registration, and sometimes personal financial statements or previous business experience.
Can I apply for multiple grants at the same time?
Yes, you can apply for multiple grants, but you must ensure that each grant allows funding from other sources. Some grants may have restrictions on stacking funds from different programs.
What are the most common reasons grant applications get rejected?
Common reasons include incomplete applications, weak business plans, lack of financial projections, failure to meet eligibility criteria, and insufficient justification for funding needs.
How long does it take to receive funding from a grant?
Processing times vary depending on the grant program, but it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. It is recommended to apply well in advance of when you need the funds.
Can I use grant money for any business expense?
No, grants are usually designated for specific expenses, such as equipment purchases, research and development, hiring employees, or marketing initiatives. It is important to follow the grant’s guidelines.
Are there mentorship and networking opportunities included with grants?
Many grants come with additional support, such as mentorship programs, business development training, and networking opportunities with investors and industry leaders. These resources help young entrepreneurs succeed.
What else should I know about Grants and Funding for Young Entrepreneurs?
Entrepreneurship represents an attractive path for young people eager to bring their ideas to life and make an impact in the business world. It offers unique opportunities for innovation, flexibility, and personal development. However, it also comes with major challenges, one of the most significant being access to financial resources. Many young entrepreneurs have great ideas but face obstacles when it comes to securing the necessary funding to turn their projects into reality.
One of the major barriers is the difficulty in accessing initial funds. Traditional financial institutions often require guarantees and strong credit histories, which can be problematic for young individuals just starting out. Additionally, a lack of experience in business management can make it harder to find partners or investors.
Fortunately, to address these difficulties, numerous grants and financial aid programs exist to support young entrepreneurs in starting and growing their businesses. These financial supports come in various forms: direct grants, low-interest loans, tax exemptions, mentorship, and specialized support. They are designed to promote the creation of dynamic businesses, encourage innovation, and stimulate the local economy.
Thus, by researching the available options and carefully preparing their application, young entrepreneurs can maximize their chances of obtaining these aids and achieving their professional ambitions.
Why Grants for Young Entrepreneurs?
Young entrepreneurs often have limited access to the financial resources needed to bring their projects to life. Unlike experienced entrepreneurs, they may struggle to secure bank loans due to their lack of financial history. Many institutions require solid guarantees, prior business management experience, and stable income—criteria that can be difficult to meet for an entrepreneur at the beginning of their journey.
Faced with these obstacles, many young talents are forced to rely on their personal networks, save money over long periods, or turn to alternative financing solutions, which are sometimes less advantageous. However, the availability of tailored grants and financial aid presents a major opportunity to overcome these difficulties.
Grants and financial aid play a crucial role by providing a springboard to success. They not only help secure the business launch by offering initial capital but also reassure potential investors and partners about the project's viability. Additionally, these aids are often accompanied by support programs, including mentorship, training, and strategic advice, which strengthen the entrepreneurial skills of young founders. By benefiting from these resources, they significantly increase their chances of sustaining their business, driving innovation, and creating jobs.
The Benefits of Youth Grants
- Access to non-repayable funds:Unlike loans, grants do not require repayment, reducing financial risk.
- Encouragement of innovation:Grants can serve as a lever to support innovative and creative projects.
- Economic development:Supporting young entrepreneurs fosters economic growth and job creation.
- Personalized support:Some programs offer mentorship and training support.
Main Categories of Financial Aid
1. Business Startup Grants
Receiving financial assistance to launch a business helps young entrepreneurs secure their early development stages. These grants typically cover startup costs, equipment, and market research.
2. Startup Financing
Startups often require initial capital to develop their products or services. Various types of financing are available:
- Startup assistance:Capital injection to cover the first months of operation.
- Startup investment funds:Programs targeting high-growth potential companies.
- Incubators and accelerators:Structures offering financial support as well as mentorship and networking resources.
3. Youth Entrepreneurship Support Programs
Numerous programs are dedicated to helping young entrepreneurs structure their projects. These programs include:
- Personalized support:Coaching and mentorship to refine business ideas.
- Workshops and training:Development of entrepreneurial and financial management skills.
- Networking opportunities:Meetings with investors and other entrepreneurs.
4. Loans for Young Entrepreneurs
Young entrepreneurs can also access advantageous loans, often with flexible repayment terms and reduced interest rates. These loans can be used for:
- Funding equipment purchases
- Developing new products or services
- Hiring the first employees
Eligibility Criteria for Youth Grants
Each program has its own eligibility requirements. However, some common criteria include:
- Age of the applicant:Grants often target young people aged 18 to 39.
- Nature of the project:The business must usually meet specific criteria (innovation, social impact, etc.).
- Solid business plan:A detailed description of the project and its business model is generally required.
- Project location:Some grants are limited to specific regions.
How to Prepare a Grant Application?
1. Clearly Define the Project
A strong application should highlight the originality of the project, its growth potential, and its impact on the local economy.
2. Write a Detailed Business Plan
A well-structured business plan is essential to convince funders. It should include:
- A market analysis
- A development strategy
- A financial forecast
3. Prepare a Budget Forecast
Organizations providing grants want to ensure funds are used appropriately. A detailed budget outlining expected expenses is therefore essential.
4. Demonstrate Commitment
Young entrepreneurs must prove their seriousness and ability to carry out their projects. This can be demonstrated through management training or prior experience in the relevant sector.
The Importance of Mentorship and Networking
Securing a grant is not always enough to guarantee a business's success. A project’s success depends on various factors, particularly mentorship and networking, which play a crucial role in:
- Receiving strategic advice from expertsand benefiting from personalized support throughout business development.
- Accessing business opportunitiesand collaborations that can accelerate growth by opening doors to new markets.
- Increasing visibility and attracting potential investorsby participating in industry events, conferences, and networking forums.
- Building a strong reputationby surrounding oneself with experienced professionals who can provide valuable recommendations.
- Developing essential entrepreneurial skillsthrough the experiences of seasoned entrepreneurs.
- Finding strategic partnerswho share the same values and ambitions, facilitating resource pooling and joint project development.
Mentorship and networking not only strengthen the foundation of a business but also accelerate its growth by reducing risks and maximizing opportunities.
Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Youth Grants
- Lack of preparation:An incomplete or poorly structured application reduces the chances of obtaining financial aid.
- Absence of a long-term vision:Funding organizations want to see a viable and sustainable project.
- Underestimating the importance of networking:Support from experts can make a difference.
- Ignoring deadlines:Grants have specific application periods. It is best to plan ahead.