
Francophone economic development in British Columbia
Latest source updateLast Update: July 8, 2026Latest change: PacifiCan now presents this support as EDI funding for Francophone-led organizations and entrepreneurs in B.C., with new sector focus areas, a $30.5 million program amount over 2023 to 2028, a new application path through SDECB’s FDEFP page, and updated contact links.View change
Overview
At a glance
Funding available
- Launch or market a product/service
- Raise awareness or mobilize a population
- Varies by project
Eligible candidates
- All industries
- British Columbia
- Non-profit
- Sole proprietorship
- Public or Parapublic institution
- Social economy enterprise
- For-profit business
- All revenue ranges
- All organization sizes
- Newcomers to Canada
- Youth (<40)
- Women
- Economic, Social and Community Development
- Employment and Training
- Business Associations
- Diversity and Inclusion
- Business owners / entrepreneurs
- Minority groups
- All structures
- Provincial
Next Steps
Activities funded
- Diversification and economic development, including trade and investment
- Economic immigration
- Green economy
- Youth
- Tourism
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Francophone entrepreneurs, including newcomers, women and youth
- Businesses looking to hire qualified French-speaking candidates
- French-speaking job seekers
- Non-profit Francophone organizations
Who is not eligible
Based on the grant context provided, there is no specific mention of companies that are not eligible for the grant.
Eligible expenses
This grant supports activities that promote the economic development of Francophone communities in British Columbia. Eligible activities are focused on providing essential business services and fostering entrepreneurial growth within the Francophone population.
- Provision of business training programs specifically designed for Francophone entrepreneurs.
- Support for community economic development initiatives that engage Francophone populations.
- Facilitation of access to capital for Francophone small to medium enterprises (SMEs).
- Offering of marketing advice tailored to Francophone businesses aiming to expand their reach.
- Development of networking and mentoring opportunities to strengthen Francophone business ties.
Eligible geographic areas
The information provided does not specify any geographical restrictions for eligibility aside from the broader context of service within British Columbia. Details on more specific eligible regions within British Columbia are not available.
- Companies and organizations operating within British Columbia, Canada.
Selection criteria
There are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant. The Société de développement économique de la Colombie-Britannique (SDEBC) considers factors such as business viability, economic impact, and alignment with the organization's mandate.
- Business viability
- Economic impact
- Alignment with SDEBC's mandate
How to apply
- To apply for EDI funding through SDECB, see the Fonds de développement économique francophone du Pacifique (FDEFP) project.
Additional information
- EDI is jointly delivered by PacifiCan, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, and other regional development agencies.