
First Peoples Economic Growth Fund – Joint Venture Program
Last Update: January 24, 2025
MN, Canada
Financing for Manitoba First Nations projects
First Peoples Economic Growth Fund – Joint Venture Program at a glance
Eligible Funding
- From $200,000 to $1,000,000
- Up to 50% of project cost
Timeline
- Continuous Intakes
Financing Type
Loans and Capital investments
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Grant Providers
- First Peoples Economic Growth Fund Inc. (FPEGF)
Status
Open
Overview of the First Peoples Economic Growth Fund – Joint Venture Program program
Is your business planning to undertake a large-scale project that costs more than $500,000? Get financing of at least $200,000 up to $1 million, in a variety of financing options.
Financing terms and conditions
This grant offers a range of financing options tailored to the needs and structures of large-scale First Nations enterprises, ensuring flexibility in funding.
- Common shares.
- Preferred shares.
- Convertible preferred shares.
- Convertible debentures.
- Term Loans.
- Mortgages.
- Units in a limited partnership or joint venture for a period negotiated and set out in the partnership or joint venture agreement.
Eligible projects & activities
This grant funds large-scale First Nations enterprises engaged in profitable and commercial activities in Manitoba. It prioritizes high-value, value-added projects that are owned and controlled by Manitoba First Nations.
- Projects aimed at establishing or expanding commercially viable businesses.
- Initiatives focused on high-end, value-added production or services.
- Large-scale operations with substantial startup costs and working capital needs, exceeding $500,000 in project costs.
Examples of admissible projects:
$ 300,000
Opening a new organic coffee roastery and café offering locally sourced products
$ 500,000
Developing a green energy solution for businesses to reduce carbon footprint
$ 400,000
Launching an innovative mobile health clinic to serve underserved communities
$ 400,000
Building a new recycling facility to promote sustainable waste management
$ 700,000
Establishing a tech hub to support local startups and innovation
$ 450,000
Revitalizing a heritage building into a cultural arts center
Eligibility criteria of the First Peoples Economic Growth Fund – Joint Venture Program program
Eligibility for this grant is determined by specific criteria related to ownership, business operations, and project scope.
- The business must have a profit objective, as not-for-profit projects are not eligible.
- A sound business plan demonstrating viability is required.
- The business must primarily operate in Manitoba.
- The nature of the business must be reputable and appropriate.
- The business must be at least 51% owned and controlled by Manitoba First Nations.
Who is eligible?
This program targets large-scale First Nations enterprises in Manitoba seeking financial support for commercially viable, for-profit projects. The primary applicants must be First Nations businesses that meet specific ownership and operational criteria.
Who is not eligible
This grant is designed for specific large-scale First Nations enterprises that meet certain criteria. Although the exact exclusions are not detailed, the focus is on profit-oriented and commercially viable ventures in Manitoba.
Eligible expenses
This grant supports large-scale First Nations enterprises, specifically in for-profit ventures that show promise for commercial success. It focuses on projects with a profit objective and those that are commercially viable.
- Projects that are primarily operated in Manitoba.
- Enterprises that involve at least 51% ownership and control by Manitoba First Nations.
- For-profit ventures with total project costs exceeding $500,000.
Eligible geographic areas
This grant is specifically targeted at companies operating within a defined geographical area to enhance local economic growth. Eligible businesses must primarily operate within Manitoba as per the Fund's requirements.
- Primarily operate in Manitoba.
Eligibility criteria of the First Peoples Economic Growth Fund – Joint Venture Program program
There are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant:
- Businesses must have a profit objective and demonstrate viability through a sound business plan.
- Projects must primarily operate in Manitoba, be reputable, appropriate in nature, and at least 51% owned and controlled by Manitoba First Nations.
How to apply to the First Peoples Economic Growth Fund – Joint Venture Program program
1
Preliminary Inquiry
- Contact the Fund to express interest in the Joint Venture Program.
- Request initial screening for business concept evaluation.
2
Eligibility Assessment
- Ensure the business is at least 51% owned and controlled by Manitoba First Nations.
- Verify that the business operates primarily in Manitoba and is for-profit.
3
Prepare Business Plan
- Develop a comprehensive business plan demonstrating viability and a profit objective.
- Include detailed financial projections and market analysis.
4
Application Compilation
- Gather all required documentation, including business plan and financing needs.
- Prepare to identify forms of financing options desired.
5
Submit Application
- Send the completed application and all supporting documents to the Fund.
- Confirm submission with the Fund and retain any acknowledgment received.
Additional information
Here are additional relevant details for this grant:
- The minimum funding available under this program is $200,000.
- Financing options include various forms of equity, debt, and joint venture agreements.
Apply to this program

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