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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
- Renovate or expand facilities
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
Here are answers to the most common questions about the First Peoples Economic Growth Fund – Community Economic Expansion Program. 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 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