How much funding can be received?

Funds up to 250000% of admissible expenses.

What is the deadline to apply?

The deadline to apply is not specified.

Who are the financial supporters of the BDC Financing — Start-up?

BDC Financing — Start-up is funded by Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC), Government of Canada

What are BDC Financing — Start-up's eligibility criterias?

Canadian-based business In operation for at least 12 consecutive months and generating revenues Good credit history

BDC Financing — Start-up

Last Update: June 4, 2025

Canada

Loan to grow a business

BDC Financing — Start-up at a glance

Eligible Funding

Max. $250,000

Timeline

Continuous Intakes

Financing Type

Loans and Capital investments

Eligible Industries

All industries

Grant Providers

Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC)
Government of Canada

Status

Open

Overview of the BDC Financing — Start-up program

Get up to $250,000 in loans to help get your business off the ground, finance operations and replenish working capital spent on start-up costs, if you've been in business for at least a year.

Financing terms and conditions

Financing of up to $250,000 to support business start-up projects.
Up to 12 months principal payment postponement at the start of the loan.

Eligible projects & activities

Launching and growing a new business venture.
Purchasing business assets or franchises.
Investing in marketing strategies and establishing a company website.
Accessing advisory and business development services.
Replenishing working capital impacted by start-up expenses.

Examples of admissible projects:

$ 90,000

Expand a local bakery's online presence and delivery service

$ 125,000

Create a comprehensive marketing strategy for a local non-profit art gallery

$ 210,000

Launch a new retail store specializing in eco-friendly products

Eligibility criteria of the BDC Financing — Start-up program

The business must be based in Canada.
The business must have been in operation for at least 12 consecutive months and be generating revenues.
The company must demonstrate realistic market and sales potential.
The applicant must have a good credit history.
The applicant must have reached the age of majority in their province or territory of residence.

Who is eligible?

Canadian-based small businesses
Start-ups operating for at least 12 months with generated revenues
Tech companies
Inclusive entrepreneurship ventures

Eligible expenses

Purchase of assets for business start-up.
Payment of start-up fees.
Buying a franchise.
Marketing expenses.
Development of a website.
Engagement of advisory services.
Working capital replenishment due to start-up costs.

Eligible geographic areas

Canada

Eligibility criteria of the BDC Financing — Start-up program

There are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant.

Canadian-based business
In operation for at least 12 consecutive months and generating revenues
Demonstrate realistic market and sales potential
Good credit history
You’ve reached the age of maturity in the province or territory where you live

How to apply to the BDC Financing — Start-up program

Determine Eligibility

Ensure that your business is based in Canada and has been in operation for at least 12 consecutive months.
Verify that your business is generating revenue and has a good credit history.

Prepare Required Documentation

Compile a thorough business plan outlining your company's market and sales potential.
Prepare financial statements and/or projections if requested.

Complete the Application Form

Access the application form through the appropriate online platform provided by BDC.
Fill out all necessary details accurately based on your business information and plans.

Submit the Application

Upload all required documents along with the completed application form.
Submit your application through the BDC's online portal.

Await Confirmation and Next Steps

Receive a confirmation email acknowledging receipt of your application.
Wait for further communication regarding the status of your application or any additional requirements.

Additional information

Financing can be adapted to align with your cash flow cycle for greater flexibility.
Principal payments may be postponed for up to 12 months at the start of the loan.
Business plans and overall potential are considered in the assessment process.
Specific solutions are available for Indigenous entrepreneurs and newcomers to Canada.