Aboriginal Business Financing Program — Community project
QC, Canada
Business funds for First Nations communities in Quebec
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|projectCostPercent
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|timelineUnspecified
grant_single|financingType
Grant and Funding
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- grant_single|allIndustries
grant_single|grantors
- Native Commercial Credit Corporation
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|open
grant_single_labels|preview
Get a non-refundable contribution of up to $1 million for businesses owned by a First Nation, the Native Alliance of Quebec, or by one of their members. Funds can be used for business start-up or expansion, marketing, project management, professional advi
grant_single_labels|projects
This grant is targeted towards First Nations communities and their members, primarily based in certain regions in Quebec. The eligibility is defined by belonging to one of the specified First Nations or the Native Alliance of Quebec.
- Abenaki
- Algonquin
- Atikamekw
- Cree
- Huron-Wendat
- Malecite
- Micmac
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$1,000,000
Launching an Indigenous-owned organic farm to supply local markets and community-supported agriculture
$1,000,000
Expanding a First Nations-owned daycare center to accommodate more children and provide specialized programs
$1,000,000
Acquiring a restaurant specializing in traditional Indigenous cuisine to promote cultural heritage
$1,000,000
Developing a business plan and feasibility study for a First Nations-owned renewable energy project
$1,000,000
Launching an Indigenous art gallery to promote and sell local artists' works
$1,000,000
Establishing a cooperative café that offers Indigenous-themed beverages and artisan crafts
grant_single_labels|admissibility
This grant is available to specific entities with defined financial and operational criteria.
- The applicant must be a First Nation, the Native Alliance of Quebec, a member of a First Nation, or a corporation owned by a First Nation or the Native Alliance of Quebec.
- The applicant must possess the necessary financial resources, with a minimum equity of 10% of the project cost.
- The business project must be viable.
- The applicant must have a good credit rating.
- Experience and training in the relevant field of activities for the project are required.
- The applicant must be involved full-time in the business.
- The business must not operate in activities related to gambling, sex, alcohol, or tobacco.
- All other sources of financing must have been considered and approved, with borrowing capacity and equity at their maximum.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
The Aboriginal Business Financing Program (ABFP) is specifically designed for First Nations and the Native Alliance of Quebec, their members, and corporations owned by them. This includes specific First Nations such as Abenaki, Algonquin, Atikamekw, Cree, Huron-Wendat, Malecite, and Micmac.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply
This grant excludes certain types of businesses due to their involvement in specific sectors. These restrictions help ensure that the support provided aligns with the ethical and strategic goals of the grant program.
- Businesses involved in gambling.
- Businesses operating in the sex industry.
- Companies that predominantly sell or distribute alcohol.
- Industries focused on tobacco products.
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
The Aboriginal Business Financing Program (ABFP) offers support for various business activities undertaken by First Nations communities and individuals in Quebec. Eligible projects focus on the start-up, acquisition, and expansion of businesses, along with crucial planning and management activities.
- Start-up, acquisition, or expansion of a business.
- Implementation of marketing activities.
- Project-related management.
- Professional advisory services after the business is launched (such as accounting).
- Development of a business plan, marketing plan, or feasibility studies (including assessments and environmental studies).
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
The grant dedicates funds to essential expenses for starting, acquiring, or expanding businesses, along with several project-related aspects.
- Start-up, acquisition or expansion of a business
- Implementation of marketing activities
- Project-related management
- Professional advisory services after the business is launched (accountant or other)
- Development of a business plan, marketing plan or feasibilities studies (assessments, environmental studies, etc.)
grant_single_labels|criteria
There are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant. The eligibility and evaluation criteria are:
- Must be a First Nation or part of the Native Alliance of Quebec
- Must have the necessary financial resources (equity: 10% minimum of the project cost)
- Present a viable business project
- Good credit rating
- Experience and training in the field of activities
- Mandatory full-time involvement in the business
- Operate a business not involved in certain sectors (gambling, sex, alcohol, tobacco)
grant_single_labels|register
- Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
- Ensure you are a First Nation or the Native Alliance of Quebec, a member of these groups, or a corporation owned by them.
- Confirm that your project meets the eligibility criteria (not in gambling, sex, alcohol, tobacco sectors).
- Verify that you have the necessary financial resources and a viable business project.
- Step 2: Prepare Application Documents
- Develop a detailed business plan, marketing plan, or feasibility study as applicable.
- Gather financial documentation demonstrating equity and other financing sources.
- Compile documentation showing mandatory full-time involvement in the business.
- Step 3: Contact Fund Provider
- Reach out to the Native Commercial Credit Corporation for guidance at (418) 842-0972 or 1 800 241-0972.
- Email queries or documents to administration@socca.qc.ca.
- Visit their office at 2936, rue de la Faune Bureau 200, Wendake G0A 4V0, for in-person consultations.
- Step 4: Submit Application
- Submit your completed application along with all required documents.
- Ensure no expenses were incurred prior to the approval of your file to remain eligible.
- Step 5: Await Approval
- Wait for a decision from the funding body concerning your application.
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
Additional relevant details for this grant are:
- The non-refundable contribution is intended as a last resort, implying that all other financing options should be exhausted beforehand.
- Expenses incurred before project approval are ineligible for grant consideration.
- The contribution level is determined based on eligible expenses, net applicant value, and available financing sources.
- Equity requirements vary based on net value for both individuals and band councils, with specific percentages outlined for different value ranges.
- The grant involves varied contribution rates depending on the type of project activity, ranging from 40% to 75%.
- First Nations must refrain from operating businesses in certain sectors (gambling, sex, alcohol, tobacco) to qualify.
grant_single_labels|contact
administration@socca.qc.ca
1-800-241-0972
Apply to this program
Empowering First Nations Through Financial Support
The Aboriginal Business Financing Program (ABFP) offers non-refundable contributions aimed at supporting the entrepreneurial aspirations of First Nations and their members in developing viable businesses. It is designed to enhance business development and economic growth through tailored financial assistance.
Detailed Overview of the Aboriginal Business Financing Program
The Aboriginal Business Financing Program (ABFP) is a vital initiative dedicated to fostering economic development among First Nations in Canada. Tailored specifically for First Nation entrepreneurs, corporations owned by First Nations, and members of the Native Alliance of Quebec, this program stands as a cornerstone in bolstering business ventures within indigenous communities. By facilitating essential financial support, the ABFP empowers business owners to initiate or expand their operations, thereby creating jobs and stimulating local economies.
The primary objective of the ABFP is to bridge the financial gap that often hinders indigenous business owners from launching or scaling their enterprises. Eligible applicants benefit from non-refundable contributions that can reach up to $99,999 for private projects and up to $1 million for community-oriented projects. This support is crucial for activities such as starting up new businesses, acquiring existing ones, expanding current operations, implementing comprehensive marketing strategies, and engaging in project-related management.
Moreover, the ABFP recognizes the importance of sound business strategy and planning. Thus, it provides significant funding, covering up to 75% of costs related to developing detailed business and marketing plans, along with feasibilities studies and environmental assessments. This ensures that beneficiaries not only have the financial backing needed but also the strategic direction necessary to succeed in a competitive market.
Another unique feature of the ABFP is its focus on promoting sustainable and ethical business practices. Applicants must adhere to strict guidelines, ensuring that their operations do not fall within industries such as gambling, alcohol, or tobacco, which are seen as socially detrimental. This focus fosters a culture of responsible business that aligns with community values and long-term societal benefit.
In addition to the direct financial assistance, the ABFP provides invaluable opportunities for capacity building. By funding professional advisory services, such as accountants or other experts, new businesses are given the tools and guidance to flourish well beyond the initial launch phase. This aspect of the program helps ensure that First Nations entrepreneurs are well-equipped to navigate the often complex challenges of business management and growth.
Ultimately, the Aboriginal Business Financing Program stands as a monumental opportunity for First Nations communities looking to harness their potential and drive economic progress. By supporting the creation and sustainability of businesses owned and operated by Indigenous peoples, the program does not merely offer financial aid—it transforms individuals' visions into tangible, thriving enterprises that can inspire future generations. Through such dedication and support, the ABFP continues to enhance the socio-economic landscape for Canada's First Nations.