
Indigenous Economic Development Fund — Business and Community Fund
Last Update: August 11, 2025
ON, Canada
Grants for Ontario Indigenous businesses, communities and organizations
At a glance
Eligible Funding
- No Condition
Timeline
- Open Date : July 9, 2024
- Closing date : October 7, 2024
Financing Type
Grant and Funding
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Funds Providers
Unspecified
Program status
Closed
Overview
Financial backing for economic capacity-building projects, community projects, and business support services.
Activities funded
- Diversification of Indigenous economies through new business ventures or sectors.
- Expansion or start-up of small and medium-sized Indigenous businesses.
- Collaboration projects between Indigenous communities and the private sector that advance economic development.
- Initiatives that increase access to employment and training opportunities for Indigenous peoples.
- Skills training and business development initiatives supporting Indigenous economic growth.
Examples of admissible projects:
$ 30,000
Expanding an Indigenous-owned coffee shop to include a bakery section
$ 20,000
Supporting skill development in software programming for Indigenous youth
$ 25,000
Start-up financing for a small Indigenous-owned eco-tourism business
$ 25,000
Developing a job training program for Indigenous youth focused on trades
$ 20,000
Expansion financing for an existing Indigenous crafts store to add an online sales platform
$ 18,000
Launch of an Indigenous artist cooperative focused on digital media and graphic design
Eligibility
- The applicant must be an Indigenous entrepreneur, business, community, or organization.
- The project must contribute to Indigenous economic development.
- The project should support economic diversification, employment, training, start-up, or business expansion for Indigenous peoples.
- The proposal may involve collaboration between Indigenous communities and the private sector for economic initiatives.
Who is eligible?
- Indigenous entrepreneurs
- Indigenous businesses
- Indigenous communities
- Indigenous organizations
Eligible geographic areas
- Ontario
How to apply
1
Identify the Appropriate Funding Stream
- Review the different funding streams available under the IEDF to determine which best aligns with your project needs: Economic Diversification Grant, Business and Community Fund, or Regional Partnership Grant.
- Ensure the eligibility of your project as per the specific stream requirements.
2
Prepare Your Documentation
- Gather necessary documentation, such as business plans, project proposals, financial statements, and any community support letters.
- Compile detailed information about your project including objectives, expected outcomes, and budgets.
3
Complete Application Form
- Access the application form through the Ontario government’s funding portal for Indigenous Economic Development Fund.
- Ensure all sections of the application form are filled out completely and accurately.
- Attach any supporting documents as required.
4
Submit the Application
- Submit your completed application form and all necessary documentation by the specified deadline (e.g. December 19, 2023, for certain streams).
- Follow specific instructions regarding submission, whether online through the portal or by mail/email if applicable.
5
Confirmation of Submission
- Receive a confirmation email or notification that your application has been received.
- Keep a copy of the submission confirmation for your records.
Additional information
- Applications must be submitted by the specified closing date for each funding stream.
- Updates on application status and important deadlines are posted on the Ontario government website.
- The fund includes multiple streams, each with distinct application windows and purposes.
- The program is administered by the Ministry of Indigenous Affairs in Ontario.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Indigenous Economic Development Fund — Business and Community Fund Program
Here are answers to the most common questions about the Indigenous Economic Development Fund — Business and Community Fund. 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 Indigenous Economic Development Fund — Business and Community Fund?
How much funding can be received?
What is the deadline to apply?
Is the Indigenous Economic Development Fund — Business and Community Fund a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Who are the financial supporters of the Indigenous Economic Development Fund — Business and Community Fund?
Who is eligible for the Indigenous Economic Development Fund — Business and Community Fund program?
Who can I contact for more information about the Indigenous Economic Development Fund — Business and Community Fund?
Where is the Indigenous Economic Development Fund — Business and Community Fund available?
Are startups eligible for the Indigenous Economic Development Fund — Business and Community Fund program?
Are Indigenous Peoples eligible for the Indigenous Economic Development Fund — Business and Community Fund program?

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