
BDC Financing — Start-up
grant_single|update June 4, 2025
Canada
Loan to grow a business
grant_single_labels_website|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|maxCount
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|timelineUnspecified
grant_single|financingType
Loans and Capital investments
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- grant_single|allIndustries
grant_single|grantors
- Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC)
- Government of Canada
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|open
grant_single_labels_website|preview
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.
grant_single_labels_website|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.
grant_single_labels_website|projects
- 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.
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$ 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
grant_single_labels_website|admissibility
- 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.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
- Canadian-based small businesses
- Start-ups operating for at least 12 months with generated revenues
- Tech companies
- Inclusive entrepreneurship ventures
grant_eligibility_criteria|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.
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
- Canada
grant_single_labels_website|criteria
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
grant_single_labels_website|apply
1
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.
2
Prepare Required Documentation
- Compile a thorough business plan outlining your company's market and sales potential.
- Prepare financial statements and/or projections if requested.
3
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.
4
Submit the Application
- Upload all required documents along with the completed application form.
- Submit your application through the BDC's online portal.
5
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.
grant_single_labels_website|otherInfo
- 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.
Apply to this program

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