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First Peoples Economic Growth Fund – Community Economic Expansion Program
Interest-free financing for Manitoba First Nation businesses
Last Update: April 10, 2026
Funding available
$ 300,000
Timeline
- Open continuously
Location
Manitoba, Canada
Overview
Get an interest-free loan of up to $300,000 or 50% of total project costs to support a startup, acquisition, or expansion. The program is intended to help Manitoba First Nation community-owned businesses create wealth and jobs.
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Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Increase social or community impact
- Complete an acquisition or business transfer
- Start a business
Eligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 300,000 $
- Up to 50% of project cost
Timeline
- Open continuously
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
- Construction
- Manufacturing
- Retail trade
- Transportation and warehousing
- Accommodation and food services
Location
- Manitoba
Legal structures
- For-profit business
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- Indigenous Peoples
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Starting a new business.
- Purchasing an existing business.
- Upgrading or expanding an existing business.
Documents Needed
- Completed loan application form
- Detailed business plan with financial projections
- Proof of cash equity
- Previous financial statements, if applicable
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Manitoba First Nation community-owned small and medium-sized businesses.
Who is not eligible
- Not-for-profit projects.
- Businesses that are not at least 51% owned and controlled by Manitoba First Nations.
Eligible expenses
The grant provides loan proceeds that can be utilized for specific business activities and enhancements.
- Starting a new business.
- Purchasing an existing business.
- Upgrading or expanding an existing business.
Ineligible Costs and Activities
- Refinancing existing debt.
- Not-for-profit projects.
Eligible geographic areas
- Manitoba
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are reviewed by First Peoples Economic Growth Fund.
- Loan decisions are based on the program’s general approval criteria.
- Applicants authorize credit checks, inquiries, and property searches.
- Approval is required before financing is provided.
Additional information
Here are additional relevant details for this grant:
- The maximum loan amount is $300,000 or 50% of the fair market value of the total project costs, whichever is less.
- At the end of the loan, a portion of the loan (up to $75,000 or 25% of the total loan) may be forgiven under certain conditions.
- Loans are interest-free with a repayment schedule not exceeding 10 years for most projects (20 years for buildings).
- Business assets used as loan security will be subordinated to other debt financing supporting the business.
- Loans are strictly for new initiatives, as they cannot be used for refinancing existing debt.
Frequently Asked Questions about the First Peoples Economic Growth Fund – Community Economic Expansion Program Program
What is the First Peoples Economic Growth Fund – Community Economic Expansion Program?
Get an interest-free loan of up to $300,000 or 50% of total project costs to support a startup, acquisition, or expansion. The program is intended to help Manitoba First Nation community-owned businesses create wealth and jobs.
How much funding can be received?
First Peoples Economic Growth Fund – Community Economic Expansion Program Funds up to 50% of admissible expenses, capped at $300,000 per project.
Who is eligible for the First Peoples Economic Growth Fund – Community Economic Expansion Program program?
To be eligible for the First Peoples Economic Growth Fund – Community Economic Expansion Program program, you must:
51% owned and controlled by Manitoba First Nations.
Primarily operates in Manitoba.
Profit-oriented and viable business.
What expenses are eligible under First Peoples Economic Growth Fund – Community Economic Expansion Program?
Starting a new business.
Purchasing an existing business.
Upgrading or expanding an existing business.
Who can I contact for more information about the First Peoples Economic Growth Fund – Community Economic Expansion Program?
You can contact First Peoples Economic Growth Fund Inc. (FPEGF).
Where is the First Peoples Economic Growth Fund – Community Economic Expansion Program available?
The First Peoples Economic Growth Fund – Community Economic Expansion Program program is available the province of Manitoba.
Is the First Peoples Economic Growth Fund – Community Economic Expansion Program a grant, loan, or tax credit?
First Peoples Economic Growth Fund – Community Economic Expansion Program is a Loans and Capital investments