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EDC — Indigenous Business - Canada

EDC — Indigenous Business

Last Update: July 29, 2025
Canada
Export help for Indigenous businesses

At a glance

Eligible Funding
  • No Condition
Timeline
  • Open Date : July 15, 2021
Financing Type
Expert Advice
Eligible Industries
  • All industries
Funds Providers
Unspecified
Program status
Open

Overview

Get support for your Indigenous business as you pursue economic self-reliance and growth through exporting. Get access to more capital, help ensure you get paid by your customers, and boost your export know-how.

Financing terms and conditions

  • EDC Credit Insurance covers up to 90% of insured losses if a customer does not pay.
  • EDC Investment Matching Program is available for small- to mid-sized exporters with a minimum of $500,000 in annual revenue, matching capital under the terms of venture capital or private equity investors.
  • The Inclusive Trade Investment Program considers Indigenous-owned and -led companies accelerating toward $500,000 in commercial revenue for equity capital support.

Activities funded

  • Expanding Indigenous-owned businesses into international markets through exporting products or services.
  • Accessing and growing working capital to support export activities.
  • Developing export-related knowledge and skills for international business.
  • Securing partnerships and investment to increase export potential.
  • Building and promoting an Indigenous global brand identity.
Examples of admissible projects:
$ 95,000
Indigenous Fashion Label Expanding to Global Market
$ 130,000
International Export of Indigenous Health Supplements
$ 100,000
Exporting Indigenous Organic Skincare Products
$ 80,000
Expanding Indigenous Art Exports to International Markets
$ 70,000
Launching a Traditional Beadwork Export Venture
$ 160,000
Marketing Indigenous Architectural Services Internationally

Eligibility

  • The business must be Indigenous-owned and/or Indigenous-led.
  • The business must be pursuing or planning to pursue exports of products or services to international markets.
  • The applicant should be seeking support for business growth, such as working capital, investment matching, or insurance related to exporting activities.

Who is eligible?

  • Indigenous-owned and Indigenous-led companies in Canada

Eligible expenses

  • Coverage for insured losses due to customer non-payment under credit insurance.
  • Working capital financing for business growth (via repayment guarantees to financial institutions).
  • Equity capital investment support for business expansion into global markets (for companies nearing $500,000 in revenue).
  • Capital increases through investment matching with venture capital or private equity partners, aligned with commercial terms.

Eligible geographic areas

  • Companies located in Canada.

Selection criteria

There are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant. The criteria include:
  • Business viability and sustainability
  • Export potential and market readiness
  • Positive impact on Indigenous community
  • Financial need and capability

How to apply

1

Determine if your business qualifies as an Indigenous-owned or -led company.


2

Review the specific requirements and eligibility criteria for the grant.


3

Gather all necessary documentation and information needed for the application.


4

Fill out the application form accurately and completely.


5

Submit the application within the specified deadline.


Additional information

  • EDC offers free online resources, including articles, blogs, guides, and on-demand webinars to help businesses understand international markets and export readiness.
  • MyEDC account provides access to over 200 resources to support decision-making in global markets.
  • Participating businesses can connect with a network of global partners, trade advisors, and other Indigenous organizations.
  • Success stories and case studies are available to illustrate the experiences of other Indigenous businesses that have expanded internationally.

Documents and links

EDC — Indigenous Business

Apply to this program

Frequently Asked Questions about the EDC — Indigenous Business Program

Here are answers to the most common questions about the EDC — Indigenous Business. This section explains what the program is, how much funding is available, eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and other important details to help you determine if this grant is right for your business.

What is the EDC — Indigenous Business?

How much funding can be received?

What expenses are eligible under EDC — Indigenous Business?

What is the deadline to apply?

Is the EDC — Indigenous Business a grant, loan, or tax credit?

Who are the financial supporters of the EDC — Indigenous Business?

Who is eligible for the EDC — Indigenous Business program?

Who can I contact for more information about the EDC — Indigenous Business?

Where is the EDC — Indigenous Business available?

Are Indigenous Peoples eligible for the EDC — Indigenous Business program?

Apply to this program

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