Aboriginal Business Loans — Youth and Womens Loans

Aboriginal Business Loans for Youth and Women provide accessible financing options specifically designed to empower Indigenous women and young entrepreneurs. These modalities are designed to enhance business growth without heavy dependency on collateral.

• Loan amounts available up to $25,000.
• Interest rate set at 9.25% over a maximum term of 5 years.
• Minimal security requirements are needed as loans are not based on collateral.
• A recommended cash equity contribution of 5%.

Eligibility for the Aboriginal Business Financing Program (ABFP) is based on specific criteria related to the applicant's heritage, location, and business operations.

• The applicant must be an individual of Canadian Indigenous status or non-status, Metis, or Inuit heritage.
• The applicant must reside and operate their business within the Atlantic provinces of Canada.
• Indigenous business and financial organizations, as well as development corporations, are eligible for contributions.

Who is eligible?

Eligible expenses

This grant supports the growth and development of Indigenous businesses in Canada by providing financial contributions towards various business-related activities. The eligible projects emphasize business planning, expansion, marketing, and technological advancements.

• Development of business plans, marketing plans, and feasibility studies.
• Expenses related to business establishment, expansion, or acquisition.
• Local, domestic, or export-oriented marketing initiatives.
• New product or process development to enhance business operations.
• Adding technology to improve business competitiveness.
• Providing business support, management training, and mentoring services.

Eligible geographic areas

This grant is designed for businesses operated by Indigenous individuals located in specific regions within Canada. Eligible companies must be situated within the Atlantic provinces.

• Newfoundland and Labrador
• Prince Edward Island
• Nova Scotia
• New Brunswick

There are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant. The Aboriginal Business Financing Program administered by Ulnooweg considers factors such as the project's eligibility, potential impact, and alignment with funding priorities.

• Project's eligibility
• Potential impact
• Alignment with funding priorities

Here are additional relevant details for the grant programs offered by Ulnooweg:

• Flexible lending programs include measures to establish a credit rating for applicants, aiding them in future financial endeavors.
• The business financing support includes gender-specific training and mentoring, catering to diverse needs.
• The Micro Lending Program specifically supports micro-enterprises with a simplified and less stringent loan approval process.
• The Women & Youth Lending program is tailored to address the historical underrepresentation of Indigenous women and youth in entrepreneurship, offering easy access with minimal security requirements.
• Continued support from the Business Development Team is available, regardless of the outcome of the application assessment.
• Loans for various programs may vary in security requirements, ensuring accessibility for different business sizes and needs.