Open
Community Futures Network of Canada
Funding and support for rural SMEs
Last Update: June 17, 2026
Funding available
Varies by project
Timeline
- Open Date : April 29, 2020
Location
Canada
Overview
If your business is located in a rural community, you may be eligible for financing and business support services through your local Community Futures organization.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- No objectives are currently available
Eligible Funding
- Varies by project
Timeline
- Open Date : April 29, 2020
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Canada
Legal structures
- Non-profit
- Sole proprietorship
- Public or Parapublic institution
- For-profit business
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- Rural or Northern Residents
- Startups
Non-profit candidates
Sector of operation
- Economic, Social and Community Development
- Employment and Training
Target groups
- Indigenous peoples
- Rural / Remote communities
- Business owners / entrepreneurs
Revenue structures
- All structures
Scope
- Regional
- Provincial
- National
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
The Community Futures Network of Canada grant funds projects that enhance economic growth and support rural businesses and communities. Eligible activities are managed through individual Community Futures offices that provide various services tailored to local needs.
- Provision of small business loans for starting or expanding businesses in rural areas.
- Organization of training and events for entrepreneurship and business management.
- Implementation of collaborative projects to explore cost-saving programs and policies.
- Facilitation of seminars and workshops for knowledge sharing and skills development.
- Development of partnerships and networks to support rural economic sustainability.
- Initiatives for professional development and training of Community Futures staff.
- Creation and dissemination of resources and information related to best practices in rural development.
Official resources
Program guide
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Non-profit Community Futures offices
- Small businesses in rural and remote communities
- Entrepreneurs seeking local business support
Eligible expenses
The grant for Community Futures organizations in Canada aims to support rural and remote communities through various activities. These activities focus on business development, professional services, and community support to enhance economic growth and sustainability.
- Providing small business loans and financial tools to entrepreneurs in rural areas to foster business growth.
- Offering training and professional development services for business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs in rural communities.
- Organizing events and workshops to facilitate knowledge sharing and networking among community businesses.
- Supporting community economic development projects that address local economic challenges and opportunities.
- Promoting collaboration and communication between Community Futures offices to optimize service delivery and resource sharing.
Eligible geographic areas
- Canada
- Nova Scotia
- New Brunswick
- Prince Edward Island
- Newfoundland and Labrador
- Quebec
- Ontario
- Manitoba
- Saskatchewan
- Alberta
- British Columbia
- Yukon
- Northwest Territories
- Nunavut
Selection criteria
- Demonstrated need for funding
- Alignment with the organization's goals and objectives
- Impact on rural and remote communities
- Financial stability and capacity to effectively utilize the grant
- Feasibility and sustainability of the proposed project or initiative
- Collaboration and partnerships with other organizations
- Ability to measure and report on outcomes
- Compliance with grant guidelines and regulations
How to apply
Here are the steps to submit an application for this grant:
- Step 1: Contact Local Office
- Identify your nearest Community Futures office using the online locator.
- Reach out to your local office to express your interest in applying for support services or funding.
- Step 2: Gather Documentation
- Prepare your business plan, including financial statements and projections.
- Collect any other required documents as specified by your local Community Futures office.
- Step 3: Submit Application
- Complete the application form provided by your Community Futures office.
- Submit the application form along with your supporting documents to the local office.
- Step 4: Confirmation and Follow Up
- Receive confirmation from the office that your application has been received.
- Follow up with the office for updates on the status of your application.
- Step 5: Review Process
- Your application will be reviewed by the local board of directors with consideration for local economic development needs.
- Await notification of the decision regarding your application.
Additional information
Here are additional relevant details for this grant:
- Each Community Futures office operates as an individual non-profit corporation with a volunteer board of directors.
- The Community Futures Network provides a variety of member services including professional development and group discounts.
- There are specific core staff positions within Community Futures offices which are supported by specialized training and career advancement opportunities.
- The organization actively gathers and shares information to help build valuable links and networks among its offices.
- Community Futures organizations focus on tailoring support to unique rural and remote community needs.
- Funding is provided through Government of Canada’s Regional Development Agencies.
- The CFNC organizes a national conference every three years to facilitate networking and shared learning among its members.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Community Futures Network of Canada Program
What is the Community Futures Network of Canada?
If your business is located in a rural community, you may be eligible for financing and business support services through your local Community Futures organization.
Who is eligible for the Community Futures Network of Canada program?
To be eligible for the Community Futures Network of Canada program, you must:
Rural or remote Canadian business
Supports start, growth, or sale
Through a local CF office
What expenses are eligible under Community Futures Network of Canada?
The Community Futures Network of Canada grant funds projects that enhance economic growth and support rural businesses and communities. Eligible activities are managed through individual Community Futures offices that provide various services tailored to local needs. Provision of small business loans for starting or expanding businesses in rural areas.
Organization of training and events for entrepreneurship and business management.
Implementation of collaborative projects to explore cost-saving programs and policies.
Facilitation of seminars and workshops for knowledge sharing and skills development.
Development of partnerships and networks to support rural economic sustainability.
Initiatives for professional development and training of Community Futures staff.
Creation and dissemination of resources and information related to best practices in rural development.
Who can I contact for more information about the Community Futures Network of Canada?
You can contact Community Futures Network of Canada (CFNC).
Where is the Community Futures Network of Canada available?
The Community Futures Network of Canada program is available across Canada.
Is the Community Futures Network of Canada a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Community Futures Network of Canada is a Expert Advice
Who are the financial supporters of the Community Futures Network of Canada?
Community Futures Network of Canada is funded by Community Futures Network of Canada (CFNC), Orillia Area Community Development Corporation