Closed
Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs (RAISE)
Support for racialized and Indigenous entrepreneurs in Ontario
Last Update: March 4, 2026
Funding available
$ 10,000
Timeline
- Closing date : October 30, 2024
Location
Ontario, Canada
Overview
The Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs (RAISE) Grant Program provides eligible Indigenous, Black, and other racialized entrepreneurs in Ontario with a one-time grant of $10,000. The program aims to support business development through training, culturally tailored coaching, and networking opportunities, with the funds required to be used for activities outlined in an approved Business Action Plan.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Increase performance through digital transformation
- Develop an online presence
- Reduce environmental footprint
Eligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 10,000 $
Timeline
- Closing date : October 30, 2024
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- Retail trade
- Accommodation and food services
Location
- Ontario
Legal structures
- For-profit business
- Sole proprietorship
Annual revenue
- $ 750,000 maximum revenue
Organisation size
- 1-105 employees
Audience
- Indigenous Peoples
- Other Racialized Persons
- Black Canadians
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Business development training and capacity building for racialized and Indigenous entrepreneurs.
- Business coaching tailored to the cultural and operational needs of participants.
- Networking initiatives to connect entrepreneurs with mentors and industry peers.
- Execution of a Business Action Plan designed to support business growth and sustainability.
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Small businesses owned by Indigenous, Black, or other racialized individuals operating in Ontario
- Businesses in the Accommodation and Food Services sector (with specific employee limits)
Who is not eligible
- Franchises, including those individually owned and operated.
- Not-for-profit organizations or charities.
- Crown corporations, government agencies, public administrations, or political organizations.
- Businesses primarily involved in tobacco, firearms, weapons (except traditional Indigenous purposes), or sexually exploitative activities.
- Property rental businesses, including residential, commercial, and student housing.
Eligible expenses
- Fees for professional third-party services and expertise.
- Marketing and communications costs (e.g., print media, signage, promotional ads).
- Digital transformation costs (e.g., website, digital marketing, software).
- Travel costs necessary to attain Business Action Plan objectives.
- Capital costs including point-of-sale (POS) systems, small equipment and tools.
- Business-related materials and supplies.
- Knowledge development activities (e.g., training, certifications).
- Costs related to attaining disability or accommodation supports.
Eligible geographic areas
- Businesses operating in Ontario
Additional information
- Applicants unable to use the online application may request a fillable PDF form, particularly intended for First Nations, Inuit, Métis, and Indigenous-owned businesses with connectivity issues.
- Approved applicants will be required to provide a business bank account in the same legal or operating name as the CRA business number for payment purposes; personal accounts are not permitted.
- Applicants must attest to having commercial general liability insurance with coverage of at least $2 million, listing the Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism as additional insured, with specific conditions for the insurance certificate.
- Applicants missing information after review will be contacted and have 5 business days to provide outstanding details, during which time other complete applications may be approved.
Documents and links
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs (RAISE) Program
Here are answers to the most common questions about the Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs (RAISE). 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 Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs (RAISE)?
The Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs (RAISE) Grant Program provides eligible Indigenous, Black, and other racialized entrepreneurs in Ontario with a one-time grant of $10,000. The program aims to support business development through training, culturally tailored coaching, and networking opportunities, with the funds required to be used for activities outlined in an approved Business Action Plan.
How much funding can be received?
Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs (RAISE) Funds up to $10,000 of admissible expenses.
Who is eligible for the Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs (RAISE) program?
To be eligible for the Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs (RAISE) program, you must:
Registered small business with the Canada Revenue Agency
Operates in Ontario with annual revenue up to $750,000
Employs 1-5 full-time equivalent employees (up to 10 in Accommodation and Food Services)
What expenses are eligible under Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs (RAISE)?
Business development training and capacity building for racialized and Indigenous entrepreneurs.
Business coaching tailored to the cultural and operational needs of participants.
Networking initiatives to connect entrepreneurs with mentors and industry peers.
Execution of a Business Action Plan designed to support business growth and sustainability.
Who can I contact for more information about the Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs (RAISE)?
You can contact Government of Ontario (ON) by email at raise@ontario.ca or by phone at 1-888-975-5502.
Where is the Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs (RAISE) available?
The Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs (RAISE) program is available the province of Ontario.
Is the Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs (RAISE) a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs (RAISE) is a Grant and Funding