
FinDev Canada Financing and Investment
Last Update: July 22, 2025
Canada
Loans and investments for businesses operating in developing countries
At a glance
Eligible Funding
- No Condition
Timeline
- Open Date : November 14, 2019
Financing Type
Loans and Capital investments
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Funds Providers
Unspecified
Program status
Open
Overview
Direct loans, loan guarantees, structured project financing and investments are available for companies operating in developing countries that bring sustainable social and economic benefits to local communities.
Financing terms and conditions
FinDev Canada provides a variety of financial solutions designed to support sustainable economic and social benefits in developing countries. These solutions are crafted to align with strategic priorities, focusing on sustainability and risk management.
- Debt financing options to provide direct loans to businesses in developing regions.
- Equity investments to foster partnerships and support business growth.
- Guarantees to mitigate potential investment risks for clients operating in emerging markets.
Activities funded
The FinDev Canada Financing and Investment grant supports projects focused on fostering economic growth and social inclusion in developing countries. Eligible activities are aligned with sustainable development, gender equality, and environmental responsibility.
- Provision of financial solutions to private sector initiatives demonstrating sustainable social and economic benefits.
- Development projects that enhance gender equality in target communities.
- Investments in initiatives addressing climate and nature action.
Examples of admissible projects:
$ 120,000
Launching a mobile health clinic network in rural Kenya to improve healthcare access
$ 150,000
Creating an educational technology platform for underprivileged schools in sub-Saharan Africa
$ 100,000
Initiating a waste management and recycling program in urban areas of India
$ 140,000
Developing a renewable energy solution in rural communities of Tanzania to reduce carbon footprint
$ 170,000
Building affordable housing units in remote areas of Nepal to aid low-income families
$ 80,000
Establishing a fair-trade coffee cooperative in Lima with sustainable farming practices
Eligibility
The eligibility criteria for this financial support focus on the applicant's alignment with FinDev Canada's strategic priorities and operational focus.
- The applicant must be part of the private sector operating in developing countries.
- The applicant's activities must contribute to sustainable social and economic benefits for local communities.
- The applicant should align with priorities related to market development, gender equality, and climate and nature action.
- The financial products offered must demonstrate a well-managed risk approach and potential for a financially sustainable portfolio.
- The business or project should be able to leverage partnerships and embody effective governance and decision-making principles.
Who is eligible?
FinDev Canada offers support to entities within the private sector that seek to promote equal, inclusive, and environmentally favorable practices in developing countries. Priority is given to those working within specific sectors that contribute to market development, gender equality, and climate action.
- Private sector companies operating in developing countries.
- Organizations that provide sustainable social and economic benefits to local communities.
- Entities offering innovative financial solutions like debt, equity, and guarantees.
- Businesses contributing to gender equality and climate and nature actions.
- Projects aligning with the Government of Canada’s development priorities.
Eligible expenses
FinDev Canada focuses on supporting projects that create sustainable social and economic benefits in developing countries, particularly in areas that enhance gender equality and climate action. Eligible activities must align with the overarching goal of leveraging partnerships and fostering a financially sustainable portfolio.
- Providing financial solutions including debt, equity, and guarantees to businesses in developing countries.
- Supporting market development initiatives that demonstrate sustainable economic benefits.
- Projects that promote gender equality and increase women's participation in the economy.
- Climate and nature action projects aimed at mitigating climate change impacts.
- Innovative business models that focus on sustainable development outcomes.
Eligible geographic areas
FinDev Canada's financial solutions are designed for companies operating in developing countries. The eligible locations focus on regions where private sector support can lead to sustainable development and social benefits.
- Entities registered in developing countries.
How to apply
1
Research and Document Preparation
- Review the FinDev Canada Fact Sheet and other supporting documents to understand the requirements and priorities.
- Gather necessary internal and external documents that demonstrate alignment with FinDev's sectors of focus: market development, gender equality, and climate action.
2
Draft Proposal
- Prepare a comprehensive proposal detailing the project objectives, financial requirements, and expected social and economic impacts.
- Highlight how your project aligns with FinDev Canada’s priorities regarding gender equality and climate action.
3
Application Submission
- Find FinDev Canada’s application portal or contact method through their official website or provided documents.
- Submit your application documentations via the specified portal or contact point.
4
Follow-up and Confirmation
- Await confirmation of receipt from FinDev Canada, which typically follows successful submission.
- Follow any further instructions provided by FinDev Canada regarding the evaluation process.
Additional information
Here is additional relevant information for this grant:
- FinDev Canada emphasizes leveraging partnerships to amplify the impact of its financial solutions.
- The organization employs a nimble and innovative approach to align with private sector needs.
- There is a focus on sustainable social and economic impact for local communities through financing solutions.
- FinDev Canada aligns its strategy with the Government of Canada’s priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions about the FinDev Canada Financing and Investment Program
Here are answers to the most common questions about the FinDev Canada Financing and Investment. 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 FinDev Canada Financing and Investment?
How much funding can be received?
What is the deadline to apply?
Is the FinDev Canada Financing and Investment a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Who are the financial supporters of the FinDev Canada Financing and Investment?
Who is eligible for the FinDev Canada Financing and Investment program?
Who can I contact for more information about the FinDev Canada Financing and Investment?
Where is the FinDev Canada Financing and Investment available?
Are women eligible for the FinDev Canada Financing and Investment program?

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