Closed
Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship (IYE) Program
Support for Indigenous youth business growth
Last Update: April 28, 2026
Funding available
$ 25,000
Timeline
- Receipt of requests is now closed
Location
Northwest Territories, Canada
Overview
The Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship Program supports Indigenous youth in starting, growing, and sustaining their businesses. It offers micro-loans of up to $25,000 per business and can cover up to 45% of the loan for eligible applicants.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Increase production or service capacity
- Increase operational productivity
- Develop workforce skills
Eligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 25,000 $
- Up to 45% of project cost
Timeline
- Receipt of requests is now closed
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Northwest Territories
Legal structures
- All legal structures
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- Indigenous Peoples
- Youth (<40)
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Starting a new business.
- Growing or sustaining an existing business.
- Accessing business support, training, and mentorship.
Documents Needed
- Completed application form
- Completed business planning guide
- Cash flow template
- Proof of Indigenous ancestry or beneficiary status
- Supporting documents such as quotes, bank statements, and business licenses
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Indigenous youth entrepreneurs.
- Businesses in any sector.
Eligible expenses
- Capital costs such as equipment, furnishings, vehicle, inventory, and other business setup costs.
- Operating costs such as insurance, utilities, lease deposits, working capital, and marketing.
- Business support services.
Eligible geographic areas
- Dehcho region, Northwest Territories
Processing and Agreement
- The Business Support Officer reviews the application before the assessment is completed.
- The program assesses eligibility based on the information and attachments submitted.
- The applicant may be contacted to discuss the application in more detail.
- Applicants must sign the declaration and consent form allowing the organization to verify information.
Additional information
- A Business Support Officer reviews the application before assessment.
- Applicants must keep a copy of the submission for their records.
- Proof of commitments from other funding sources may be required.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship (IYE) Program Program
Here are answers to the most common questions about the Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship (IYE) 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 Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship (IYE) Program?
The Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship Program supports Indigenous youth in starting, growing, and sustaining their businesses. It offers micro-loans of up to $25,000 per business and can cover up to 45% of the loan for eligible applicants.
How much funding can be received?
Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship (IYE) Program Funds up to 45% of admissible expenses, capped at $25,000 per project.
Who is eligible for the Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship (IYE) Program program?
To be eligible for the Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship (IYE) Program program, you must:
Indigenous youth aged 18 to 39.
Business located in the Dehcho region.
Completed business plan and documents.
What expenses are eligible under Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship (IYE) Program?
Starting a new business.
Growing or sustaining an existing business.
Accessing business support, training, and mentorship.
Who can I contact for more information about the Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship (IYE) Program?
You can contact Dehcho Business Development Centre (DCBDC).
Where is the Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship (IYE) Program available?
The Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship (IYE) Program program is available the province of Northwest Territories.
Is the Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship (IYE) Program a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship (IYE) Program is a Grant and Funding