Entrepreneurs with Disabilities
AB, Canada
Loans and support for entrepreneurs with disabilities in the Prairies provinces
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|noCondition
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|timelineUnspecified
grant_single|financingType
Loans and Capital investments
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- grant_single|allIndustries
grant_single|grantors
- Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan)
- Government of Canada
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|open
grant_single_labels|preview
The Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program, administered by PrairiesCan, offers business loans to Western Canadians with disabilities, facilitating access to mentoring, training, and one-on-one counseling to start or expand a business, purchase new technology, upgrade equipment, or develop marketing materials. The program aims to support entrepreneurs with disabilities who have been unable to secure funding from other sources, with services available across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba.
grant_single_labels|terms_and_conditions
The Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program offers flexible loan options to eligible entrepreneurs, designed to meet their specific business needs. The financing modalities emphasize accessibility for those unable to secure loans through traditional financial institutions.
- Access to business loans for starting or expanding a business.
- Funds available for purchasing and applying new technology.
- Loans can be used to upgrade facilities and equipment.
- Financing for developing marketing and promotional materials.
- Establishing working capital for anticipated sales increases.
grant_single_labels|projects
The Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program supports activities that enable entrepreneurs with disabilities to start or expand their businesses. The eligible projects focus on obtaining technology, upgrading facilities, and enhancing market presence.
- Starting or expanding a business.
- Purchasing and applying new technology.
- Upgrading facilities and equipment.
- Developing marketing and promotions materials.
- Establishing working capital for anticipated sales increases.
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$ 80,000
Establishing a microbrewery with a focus on producing eco-friendly, sustainable brews
$ 40,000
Launching an online platform for selling handmade crafts and arts by local artists
$ 50,000
Upgrading gym facilities to include accessible fitness equipment for individuals with disabilities
$ 70,000
Opening a new daycare center with modern facilities and educational tools
$ 50,000
Expanding a local bakery by upgrading kitchen equipment and enhancing marketing strategies
$ 60,000
Developing a mobile app aimed at providing mental wellness resources for remote workers
grant_single_labels|admissibility
Eligibility for the Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP) in the Prairie provinces is based on specific criteria relating to the entrepreneur's condition and business status.
- The applicant must be an entrepreneur who has been unsuccessful in obtaining necessary funding from other sources.
- The applicant must be unable to perform at least one of the basic activities of entrepreneurship or self-employment.
- The applicant must have a disability due to physical or mental impairment.
- The applicant must have a viable business plan and be a new or current small business owner with a disability.
- The applicant must reside in Alberta, Saskatchewan, or Manitoba.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
Entrepreneurs residing in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba who have disabilities due to physical or mental impairments are eligible. They must be unable to perform at least one of the basic activities of entrepreneurship or self-employment and have been unsuccessful in obtaining necessary business funding from other sources. Additionally, they should have a feasible business plan and be current or potential small business owners with disabilities.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply
There are certain types of companies that are not eligible for the Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program grant:
- Companies that do not have entrepreneurs with disabilities as owners
- Companies that do not operate in Alberta, Saskatchewan, or Manitoba
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
This program enables entrepreneurs with disabilities in the Prairies to access resources for developing and expanding their businesses. Eligible activities include services and financial assistance to help overcome challenges related to disability in the entrepreneurship journey.
- Starting or expanding a business.
- Purchasing and applying new technology.
- Upgrading facilities and equipment.
- Developing marketing and promotions materials.
- Establishing working capital for anticipated sales increases.
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
This grant is available to entrepreneurs residing in specific geographical areas within Canada. The eligible regions focus on the Prairie provinces, aiming to support local businesses operated by entrepreneurs with disabilities.
- Alberta
- Saskatchewan
- Manitoba
grant_single_labels|criteria
The Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP) in the Prairie provinces has specific criteria for evaluating and selecting applicants:
- Applicants must have been unsuccessful in obtaining funding from other sources
- Applicants must be unable to perform at least one basic activity of entrepreneurship
- Applicants must have a physical or mental impairment that constitutes a disability
- Applicants must have a viable business plan and be either new or current small business owners
- Applicants must reside in Alberta, Saskatchewan, or Manitoba
grant_single_labels|register
Here are the steps to submit an application for the Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program in the Prairie provinces:
- Step 1: Contact Regional Office
- Identify your regional office from the provided list based on your location (e.g., Edmonton, Calgary, Saskatoon, etc.).
- Reach out via telephone or email to get specific guidance and application forms.
- Step 2: Gather Required Information and Documents
- Prepare a detailed business plan outlining your business idea, goals, and the support you need.
- Compile necessary documents such as proof of disability, failed funding attempts from other sources, and any other supporting documents requested by the regional office.
- Step 3: Consultation and Assessment
- Book and attend a consultation session with a counselor for one-on-one business guidance and assessment of your application.
- Refine your business plan and application with feedback from the consultation.
- Step 4: Complete Application Form
- Fill out the application form provided by the regional office during your consultation.
- Ensure all questions are answered accurately and completely.
- Step 5: Submit Application
- Submit your completed application form along with all required documents to the regional office.
- Use the contact method specified by the office (mail, email, or fax).
- Confirm submission and retain any confirmation receipt for your records.
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
Here are additional relevant details for the Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP):
- In rural communities, the program is delivered through Community Futures.
- Community Futures offices and other regional support organizations are part of the Prairies Business Service Network.
- The program provides access to expertise through various associated service centers such as Women’s Enterprise Initiative offices and Indigenous Business Development Services.
- Participants can receive specialized help in identifying requirements for specialized equipment.
grant_single_labels|contact
403-851-9995
Apply to this program
Comprehensive Support for Entrepreneurs with Disabilities in the Prairies
The Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP) offers Western Canadians living with disabilities access to essential business services and financial support to nurture entrepreneurial aspirations. From mentorship to flexible loans, the EDP is a crucial resource for new and small business owners with disabilities across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba.
Empowering Entrepreneurs through the EDP
The Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program is an innovative initiative by Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan), aimed at fostering entrepreneurship among Canadians with disabilities in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. Comprehending the multifaceted challenges faced by those with disabilities, the EDP extends a comprehensive suite of services designed to help individuals overcome barriers in their business journeys. This program is delivered through a dedicated network of organizations specialized in equipping entrepreneurs with resources, knowledge, and financial backing.
One of the cornerstone services of the EDP is mentoring paired with one-on-one counseling. These elements are tailored to provide personalized guidance, ensuring entrepreneurs gain customized advice and strategies from seasoned business professionals. This mentorship platform helps budding entrepreneurs refine their business plans, navigate challenges, and develop sustainable growth models.
Training and development modules are also integral to the EDP. They cover a myriad of business-related topics crucial for running a successful enterprise. From understanding legal and regulatory aspects to developing marketing strategies and financial management, these modules aim to build a robust knowledge base among participants, enhancing their business acumen and readiness to thrive in competitive environments.
An important financial facet of the EDP is its loan service, which is particularly beneficial for entrepreneurs who have been unsuccessful in securing funding through conventional financial institutions. These loans are structured with flexibility to accommodate the unique needs of entrepreneurs with disabilities, allowing the purchase of technology, equipment upgrades, or marketing initiatives crucial for business expansion or establishment.
The EDP also helps identify and address specific technological and equipment needs, which are particularly pertinent for entrepreneurs with disabilities. By recognizing these needs early, the program ensures that entrepreneurs are equipped with the necessary tools to operate efficiently, thereby enhancing productivity and competitive edge in the marketplace.
The program is widely accessible through prominent organizations in major urban centers as well as Community Futures in rural areas. This extensive network ensures that assistance is reachable for individuals regardless of their location. Whether through face-to-face interactions or remote support, the aim is to create an inclusive business support environment that uplifts entrepreneurs in all Prairie provinces.
Moreover, the wider Prairies Business Service Network, which includes initiatives like the Women’s Enterprise Initiative and Indigenous Business Development Services, provides additional layers of support. Resources from these networks help to bolster the capabilities the EDP offers by connecting entrepreneurs to a broad spectrum of expertise and services.
In essence, the Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program is not just about providing financial aids; it's about enabling sustained business development and ensuring that entrepreneurs with disabilities are equipped to unleash their potential effectively. Through strategic mentoring, access to funding, and robust training modules, the EDP ensures a holistic development model that is inclusive and strategically aligned to the unique needs of the community it serves, laying a resilient foundation for long-term success.
