Aboriginal Business Loans — General
NS, Canada
Loans for Indigenous entrepreneurs in Atlantic Canada
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
- Construction
- Other services (except public administration)
grant_single|grantors
- Ulnooweg
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|open
grant_single_labels|preview
Get a loan of up to $750,000 to start, expand or improve your Indigenous-owned business in Atlantic Canada.
grant_single_labels|projects
- Establishment and operating costs
- Business acquisitions and expansions
- Local, domestic or export-oriented marketing initiatives
- New product or process development
- Adding technology to improve operations and competitiveness
- Financial services, business support, business-related training, and mentoring services
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$75,000
Halifax
Expanding an Indigenous-owned bakery to include a café and event space.
$50,000
St. John's
Launching a new Indigenous-owned tech startup focused on app development.
$100,000
Moncton
Acquiring a local Indigenous art gallery to expand its reach and offerings.
$35,000
Charlottetown
Adding e-commerce capabilities to an Indigenous-owned craft shop.
$60,000
Fredericton
Developing new biodegradable packaging products for an Indigenous-owned company.
$35,000
Sydney
Enhancing a local Indigenous community center with new technology and training programs.
grant_single_labels|admissibility
Below are the eligibility criteria for the Aboriginal Business Financing Program:
- Eligible applicants are individuals of Canadian Indigenous status or non-status, Metis or Inuit Heritage (on or off reserve), living and operating their businesses within the Atlantic provinces. Indigenous business and financial organizations, as well as development corporations are also eligible for contributions.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
Eligible applicants for the Aboriginal Business Financing Program (ABFP) administered by Ulnooweg include individuals of Canadian Indigenous status or non-status, Metis or Inuit Heritage living and operating their businesses within the Atlantic provinces. Indigenous business and financial organizations, as well as development corporations are also eligible for contributions.
- Individuals of Canadian Indigenous status or non-status
- Metis or Inuit Heritage
- Indigenous business and financial organizations
- Development corporations
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply
There are specific types of companies that are not eligible for the grant. Indigenous businesses and financial organizations, as well as development corporations, are eligible for contributions.
- Non-Indigenous businesses
- Businesses operating outside the Atlantic provinces
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
Some of the eligible expenses for ABFP support are:
- Business planning
- Establishment and operating costs
- Business acquisitions and expansions
- Local, domestic or export oriented marketing initiatives
- New product or process development
- Adding technology to improve operations and competitiveness
- Financial services, business support, business-related training and mentoring services
grant_single_labels|criteria
There are evaluation and selection criteria for the grant. The evaluation process involves assessing the eligibility of the project, the potential impact, and the alignment with the program objectives.
- Demonstrated Indigenous status or heritage
- Business viability and potential for success
- Alignment with program objectives
- Potential impact on the Indigenous business sector
- Feasibility and sustainability of the project
- Evidence of financial need and clear budget planning
grant_single_labels|register
- Complete the Client Inquiry Form
- Assess where your business is strong and where improvements are needed
- Begin the process of understanding your business and needs
- Utilize the recommended tools provided
- Calculate loan repayments, establish an online presence, and more
- Continue the review process with the client inquiry form
- Review the funding program options available
- Based on your business and situation, explore suitable funding opportunities
- Establish a personal connection with the Client Services Officer
- Complete the application package and submit it
- Seek guidance and assistance throughout the application process
- Receive continued support from the Business Development Team
- Regardless of the application outcome, ongoing support for you and your business
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
- Applicants should ensure they meet all eligibility criteria and provide all required documentation.
- Successful applicants may receive ongoing support and mentorship from the Ulnooweg Development Group.
Apply to this program
Aboriginal Business Financing Program (ABFP)
Understanding the Aboriginal Business Financing Program (ABFP)
The Aboriginal Business Financing Program (ABFP), administered by Ulnooweg, is a vital initiative that provides non-repayable business contributions to individual Indigenous entrepreneurs and community-owned businesses in Canada. This program aims to nurture and promote the growth of a robust Indigenous business sector by offering a range of financial support and services.
ABFP funding primarily focuses on small and medium-sized businesses and community-based projects, offering non-repayable contributions that help entrepreneurs establish, expand, and enhance their businesses. With eligibility criteria supporting Indigenous individuals, communities, and organizations, the ABFP plays a crucial role in fostering economic empowerment and sustainable development within the Indigenous business community.
Through the ABFP, Ulnooweg's dedicated team assists applicants in determining project eligibility, developing comprehensive business plans, accessing appropriate financial resources, and facilitating partnerships. Eligible expenses covered by the program include business planning, operational costs, marketing initiatives, technological advancements, and training support, among others.
Entrepreneurs qualifying for the ABFP can benefit from financial contributions towards various aspects of their business endeavors, such as business planning, establishment, marketing, and operational management. The program's inclusive nature extends its support to individuals of Canadian Indigenous status, including non-status, Metis, and Inuit heritage, residing and operating within the Atlantic provinces.
By providing financial assistance, advisory services, and essential resources to Indigenous businesses, the ABFP plays a pivotal role in empowering entrepreneurs, fostering economic growth, and contributing to the overall prosperity of Indigenous communities. This program exemplifies a commitment to promoting entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainable business practices among Indigenous populations, creating a more inclusive and vibrant business landscape across Canada.