Open
Last Update: March 4, 2026
Funding available
$ 750,000
Timeline
- Open continuously
Location
Nova Scotia, Canada
Overview
Get up to $750,000 for individuals and $1.5 million for communities through non-repayable business contributions and financing options. The program supports Indigenous entrepreneurs and businesses with business planning, expansion, marketing, product development, and operational improvements.
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Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Increase performance through digital transformation
- Develop a new product or service
Eligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 750,000 $
- Up to 75% of project cost
Timeline
- Open continuously
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- Construction
- Other services (except public administration)
Location
- Nova Scotia
Legal structures
- For-profit business
- Sole proprietorship
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- Indigenous Peoples
- Youth (<40)
- Women
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Business planning and feasibility studies.
- Business establishment, expansion, or acquisition.
- Marketing initiatives, including local, domestic, or export-oriented marketing.
- New product or process development and technology improvements.
- Business support, mentoring, and project-related management.
Documents Needed
- Completed Client Inquiry Form.
Official resources
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Indigenous entrepreneurs.
- Indigenous business and financial organizations.
- Development corporations.
Eligible expenses
- Business planning, marketing plans, and feasibility studies.
- Establishment, operating, expansion, or acquisition costs.
- Marketing initiatives, product or process development, and technology improvements.
- Business support, training, mentoring, and management-related services.
Eligible geographic areas
- Atlantic provinces.
Selection criteria
The evaluation and selection criteria specifically for projects under this grant are not explicitly mentioned in the provided grant context.
How to apply
1
Client Inquiry Form
Complete the Client Inquiry Form to assess the strengths and areas for improvement in your business.
2
Recommended Tools
Utilize the recommended business tools provided by Ulnooweg to assist with immediate business needs, such as loan calculations and creating an online presence.
3
Funding Program Options
Review the available funding program options based on the information submitted in the Client Inquiry Form and aligned with your business needs.
4
Personal Connection
- Submit your completed application package for assessment.
- The Client Services Officer will assist with navigating the application process and submission.
5
Continued Support
Receive ongoing support from the Ulnooweg Business Development Team regardless of the application outcome.
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are reviewed after submission by the Client Services Officer.
- The application is sent for assessment.
- Applicants receive continued support from the Business Development Team regardless of the outcome.
Additional information
- Applicants can inquire about both lending programs and non-repayable contributions.
- Client Services Officers respond within 3-5 business days.
- The application form requires all fields to be completed.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the Aboriginal Business Loans — Micro Loans Program
What is the Aboriginal Business Loans — Micro Loans?
Get up to $750,000 for individuals and $1.5 million for communities through non-repayable business contributions and financing options. The program supports Indigenous entrepreneurs and businesses with business planning, expansion, marketing, product development, and operational improvements.
How much funding can be received?
Aboriginal Business Loans — Micro Loans Funds up to 75% of admissible expenses, capped at $750,000 per project.
Who is eligible for the Aboriginal Business Loans — Micro Loans program?
To be eligible for the Aboriginal Business Loans — Micro Loans program, you must:
Canadian Indigenous status, non-status, Métis, or Inuit heritage.
Business located in Atlantic provinces.
Indigenous organizations and development corporations may apply.
What expenses are eligible under Aboriginal Business Loans — Micro Loans?
Business planning and feasibility studies.
Business establishment, expansion, or acquisition.
Marketing initiatives, including local, domestic, or export-oriented marketing.
New product or process development and technology improvements.
Business support, mentoring, and project-related management.
Who can I contact for more information about the Aboriginal Business Loans — Micro Loans?
You can contact Ulnooweg or by phone at 1-888-766-2376.
Where is the Aboriginal Business Loans — Micro Loans available?
The Aboriginal Business Loans — Micro Loans program is available the province of Nova Scotia.
Is the Aboriginal Business Loans — Micro Loans a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Aboriginal Business Loans — Micro Loans is a Loans and Capital investments