How much funding can be received?

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.

Eligible projects & activities

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 criteria of the EDC — Indigenous Business program

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.

Eligibility criteria of the EDC — Indigenous Business program

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 to the EDC — Indigenous Business program

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

Review the specific requirements and eligibility criteria for the grant.

Gather all necessary documentation and information needed for the application.

Fill out the application form accurately and completely.

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

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