Community Futures Manitoba — Indigenous Business Development Services
MN, Canada
Advice and awards for Indigenous businesses in Manitoba
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|maxCount
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|closingDateMay 21, 2024
grant_single|financingType
Grant and Funding
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- grant_single|allIndustries
grant_single|grantors
- Government of Canada
- Community Futures Manitoba
- Prairies Economic Development Canada (PRAIRIESCAN)
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|closed
grant_single_labels|preview
Business advisory services for Indigenous businesses in Manitoba, as well as some financial award programs.
grant_single_labels|projects
Eligible projects under the Indigenous Business Development Services (IBDS) Capacity Building Projects are those designed to encourage, support, and assist Indigenous entrepreneurs in Manitoba. Individual organizations and partnerships among service providers/partners can apply for funding to implement these projects.
- Business plan preparation assistance
- Advisory services for business development
- Training workshops and seminars
- Community economic development activities
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$5,500
Churchill
Setting up training programs for Indigenous sole proprietors
$4,500
Selkirk
Business counselling sessions for Indigenous entrepreneurs
$4,500
Winnipeg
Organizing business plan preparation workshops for Indigenous entrepreneurs
$6,000
Brandon
Development of an online resource hub for Indigenous entrepreneurs
$6,500
Thompson
Facilitating business development seminars for Indigenous organizations
$5,500
Thompson
Implementing community economic development activities for Indigenous startups
grant_single_labels|admissibility
The Indigenous Business Development Services Program invites organizations to submit proposals for Capacity Building Projects to support Indigenous entrepreneurs in Manitoba.
Eligibility criteria:
- Organizations must serve Indigenous entrepreneurs.
- Preference is given to applications demonstrating partnerships among service providers/partners.
- Projects must be completed by March 31, 2025.
- Submission must include a completed application form, budget, and cash flow summary.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
The Indigenous Business Development Services (IBDS) program does not specify particular types of companies as eligible for the grant but focuses on supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs and organizations serving them. The grants are available for several initiatives aimed at fostering entrepreneurial growth within Indigenous communities, particularly in rural and northern Manitoba.
- Business information and resource material distribution
- Business plan preparation assistance
- Business advisory services
- Workshops and seminars for business training
- Capacity building projects for organizations supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs
- Training, workshops, or business counseling sessions specifically in First Nations, Metis, or Inuit communities
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
Eligible expenses for the Indigenous Business Development Services Capacity Building Projects may include a variety of costs associated with encouraging and supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs.
- Training and workshop fees
- Business counselling session costs
- Resource material production
- Event planning and execution expenses
- Consulting fees
- Travel and accommodation for facilitators
- Marketing and promotional activities
- Administrative costs related to project implementation
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
The eligible geographic zones for this grant are rural and northern Manitoba.
- Rural Manitoba
- Northern Manitoba
grant_single_labels|criteria
The evaluation and selection criteria for the Indigenous Business Development Services Capacity Building Projects grant are designed to prioritize organizations serving Indigenous entrepreneurs and those demonstrating collaborative partnerships. Applicants are expected to provide detailed project proposals with clear budget and cash flow summaries.
- Organizations serving Indigenous entrepreneurs
- Preference for applications demonstrating partnerships among service providers/partners
- Completed application form
- Detailed budget and cash flow summary
- Project completion by March 31, 2025
grant_single_labels|register
- Step 1: Prepare your capacity building project proposal, ensuring it focuses on encouraging, supporting, and/or assisting Indigenous entrepreneurs in Manitoba.
- Step 2: Complete the application form provided by the Indigenous Business Development Services (IBDS) program.
- Step 3: Create a budget and cash flow summary for your proposed project.
- Step 4: Gather any additional information that supports your application. Attach additional pages if you need more space.
- Step 5: Submit your completed application form, budget, cash flow summary, and any additional information via fax or email to Raena Baker, IBDS Coordinator, at rbaker@cfmanitoba.ca.
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
The Indigenous Business Development Services Program offers various resources and support services to Indigenous entrepreneurs including business information, advisory services, and training. The program also sponsors the Dragon's Quest Business Planning Competition and provides funding for capacity building projects and training in rural and northern Indigenous communities.
- Deadline for the 2024 Dragon's Quest Business Planning Competition is March 15, 2024, at 4:30pm.
- Call for Proposals 2024/2025 is accepting applications for Capacity Building Projects due March 31, 2025.
- Each organization can receive up to $5,000 for capacity building projects encouraging and supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs in Manitoba.
- Contact person for submissions and more information: Raena Baker, Project Coordinator, via email at rbaker@cfmanitoba.ca.
grant_single_labels|contact
rbaker@cfmanitoba.ca
204-944-8438
Apply to this program
Indigenous Business Development Services Program
The Indigenous Business Development Services (IBDS) Program supports Indigenous entrepreneurs in Manitoba by providing business information, advisory services, training, and resources. The program also includes a capacity building component and an annual Dragon's Quest Business Planning Competition offering up to $7,500 for winning business plans.
Comprehensive Guide to the Indigenous Business Development Services Program
The Indigenous Business Development Services (IBDS) Program is a pivotal initiative designed to bolster Indigenous entrepreneurship across Manitoba. Run by Community Futures Manitoba, this program targets Indigenous entrepreneurs, providing them with a wide range of support services, including business advisory, training, and resource materials. The program is an integral part of the efforts to stimulate economic growth among Indigenous communities by empowering entrepreneurs with the tools they need to be successful in their ventures.
Program Overview
The IBDS Program is dedicated to offering comprehensive support to Indigenous entrepreneurs at various stages of their business journey. Here's an in-depth look at the different facets of the program:
Business Information and Resource Materials
The program offers a plethora of business information and resource materials specifically tailored to meet the unique needs of Indigenous entrepreneurs. Resources include guides on starting a business in a First Nation community and a comprehensive business planning workbook. These materials are designed to help entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of starting and managing a business, offering practical advice and insights.
Assistance with Business Plan Preparation
One of the critical services provided by the IBDS Program is assistance with business plan preparation. Recognizing that a well-structured business plan is essential for securing funding and guiding the growth of a business, the program provides expert advice and support to help entrepreneurs develop robust and compelling business plans. This assistance is invaluable, particularly for first-time entrepreneurs who may not be familiar with the intricacies of business planning.
Business Advisory Services
Professional business advisory services are at the core of the IBDS Program. These services include one-on-one consultations with experienced business advisors who offer personalized guidance on various aspects of running a business. Whether it’s marketing strategies, financial management, or operational planning, the advisors provide critical insights to help entrepreneurs make informed decisions and overcome challenges.
Training Through Workshops and Seminars
Training and continuous learning are key components of the IBDS Program. The program organizes workshops and seminars covering a wide range of topics relevant to business development. These training sessions are designed to equip entrepreneurs with the latest skills and knowledge required to thrive in the competitive business environment. Topics may include digital marketing, financial literacy, and leadership skills, among others.
Dragon's Quest Business Planning Competition
Among the standout features of the IBDS Program is the annual Dragon's Quest Business Planning Competition. This competition not only fosters a spirit of entrepreneurship but also provides a substantial financial incentive to help winners kickstart their business ventures.
Competition Details
Applicants are required to submit their detailed business plans, which are then evaluated by a panel of experts from organizations supporting Indigenous entrepreneurship. The competition culminates at the Vision Quest Conference held in May at the RBC Convention Centre in Winnipeg. Participants benefit from the feedback of seasoned business professionals, which can be invaluable in refining their business strategies.
Prizes and Recognition
The winners of the Dragon's Quest competition can receive up to $7,500, which can be used to fund the initial stages of their business. Beyond the monetary prize, participants gain significant exposure and recognition, which can open doors to further opportunities and partnerships. The competition is an excellent platform for aspiring entrepreneurs to showcase their ideas and gain the support they need to succeed.
Capacity Building Projects
The IBDS Program also supports capacity building projects, allowing organizations serving Indigenous entrepreneurs to enhance their services.
Funding and Project Scope
Organizations can apply for up to $5,000 to implement projects aimed at encouraging, supporting, or assisting Indigenous entrepreneurs in Manitoba. Preference is given to projects demonstrating partnerships among service providers or partners. These projects must be completed by March 31, 2025, ensuring timely utilization of funds for the benefit of the targeted communities.
Application Process
Applicants need to submit a completed application form, along with a budget and cash flow summary. The application process is straightforward, and additional information can be included to bolster the application. Submissions can be made via fax or email to the IBDS Coordinator.
Training and Business Counselling for Rural and Northern Communities
Recognizing the unique challenges faced by rural and northern communities, the IBDS Program extends specific support to these areas.
Available Funding
Community Futures (CF) organizations can apply for funding assistance to deliver training, workshops, or business counselling sessions in First Nations, Metis, or Inuit communities. Indigenous Financial Institutions (IFIs) can receive up to $5,000 in funding, while non-IFI CFs can receive up to $1,000. Additional funds may be available based on demonstrated need and availability.
Support and Coordination
The IBDS Program ensures that rural and northern communities have access to the same level of support as urban areas. This is achieved through coordinated efforts and targeted funding to address the specific needs and challenges of these communities. The program aims to bridge the gap and foster equitable economic development across all regions.
Contact Information and Submission Details
For more information about the Indigenous Business Development Services Program, interested parties can reach out to Raena Baker, the IBDS Project Coordinator. Raena can provide detailed information about the program, application processes, and deadlines.
Contact Details
Phone: 204-944-8438
Email: rbaker@cfmanitoba.ca
Conclusion
The Indigenous Business Development Services (IBDS) Program is a comprehensive initiative aimed at fostering economic growth and development among Indigenous entrepreneurs in Manitoba. By offering a wide range of support services, training, and funding opportunities, the program empowers Indigenous entrepreneurs to overcome challenges and achieve their business goals. Through initiatives like the Dragon's Quest Business Planning Competition and capacity building projects, the IBDS Program plays a crucial role in nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit within Indigenous communities and contributing to their sustainable economic development.
