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Aboriginal Business Loans — Micro Loans

Funding for Indigenous business growth

Source change captured

Funding available
$ 750,000
Up to 75% of project cost
Deadline
Open continuously
Location
Nova Scotia, Canada
Who can apply
Indigenous entrepreneurs.
See full eligibility

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.

At a glance

Funding available

Maximum funding
$750,000
Maximum share of project costs
75%
Financing goals
  • Increase performance through digital transformation
  • Develop a new product or service

Eligible candidates

Location
  • Nova Scotia
Eligible Industries
All industries
Annual revenue
All revenue ranges
Organisation size
All organization sizes
Audience
  • Indigenous Peoples
  • Youth (<40)
  • Women
Legal structures
For-profit business, Sole proprietorship

Start applying for this program

Take a practical assessment to gain a clear understanding of how well this program aligns with your specific needs and long-term goals.

Availability timeline

2026
Periods: 1

Latest changes

Intake Paused for Client Inquiries

The client inquiry form now says new inquiries and applications are paused, and no reopening date is provided.

See more

We detected changes to application process, timeline and deadlines.

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.

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.

How to apply

  • Step 1: Complete the Client Inquiry Form
    • Use the form to share information about your business and funding needs.
  • Step 2: Review program options
    • Ulnooweg reviews your inquiry and identifies suitable funding options.
  • Step 3: Prepare the application package
    • Complete your application package with help from the Client Services Officer.
  • Step 4: Submit for assessment
    • The Client Services Officer sends your application for assessment.

Documents Needed

  • Client Inquiry Form

Selection criteria

The evaluation and selection criteria specifically for projects under this grant are not explicitly mentioned in the provided grant context.

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

Official sources

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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.

What is the deadline to apply?

The program is accepting continuous intake

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, 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.

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.