How much funding can be received?

Funds up to 10000% of admissible expenses.

What is the deadline to apply?

The deadline to apply is not specified.

Who are the financial supporters of the Rise — Small Business Lending?

Rise — Small Business Lending is funded by Rise

What are Rise — Small Business Lending's eligibility criterias?

Must be a motivated entrepreneur. Self-identify as experiencing mental health and/or addiction challenges. Unable to access traditional bank financing for their business.

Rise — Small Business Lending

Last Update: June 13, 2025

ON, Canada

Business loans for entrepreneurs

Rise — Small Business Lending at a glance

Eligible Funding

Max. $10,000

Timeline

Continuous Intakes

Financing Type

Loans and Capital investments

Eligible Industries

Retail trade
Professional, scientific and technical services
Health care and social assistance
Arts, entertainment and recreation
Accommodation and food services

Grant Providers

Rise

Status

Open

Overview of the Rise — Small Business Lending program

If you have experienced mental health and/or addiction challenges, you could get a low-interest loan up to $10,000 to launch or grow your small business and access resources to improve your business skills.

Financing terms and conditions

Low-interest business loans available up to $10,000 per project.
Average initial loan size is $4,000.
Average loan term is 3 years.
Repayment commences 30 days after loan disbursement.
No hidden fees associated with the loan.

Eligible projects & activities

Launching a new small business.
Expanding or growing an existing small business.
Participating in events or trade shows to support business development.

Examples of admissible projects:

$ 10,000

Expanding a peer support group for individuals with mental health issues

$ 10,000

Starting an online platform for addiction recovery resources

$ 10,000

Launching a wellness center providing mental health support and therapy services

$ 10,000

Opening a coffee shop that employs individuals in recovery from addiction

$ 8,000

Creating a handmade soap business to promote mental wellness

$ 10,000

Establishing a sustainable fashion line that supports mental health advocacy

Eligibility criteria of the Rise — Small Business Lending program

The applicant must be a motivated entrepreneur.
The applicant must self-identify as an individual who has experienced mental health and/or addiction challenges.
The applicant must be unable to access traditional bank financing for their small business.
The applicant must reside in Canada and be a Canadian citizen or Permanent Resident.
The applicant must not be in active bankruptcy, or behind on child support payments or government taxes.

Eligible geographic areas

Canada

Eligibility criteria of the Rise — Small Business Lending program

Viability of the business concept.
Capacity to repay the loan.
Entrepreneur’s commitment to improving financial stability.
Stage of business development.
Assessment based on character as well as business factors (not solely on credit score).

How to apply to the Rise — Small Business Lending program

Review Eligibility Criteria

Ensure you meet all eligibility requirements, including self-identifying as having experienced mental health or addiction challenges, and not being able to access traditional bank financing.
Confirm you are a motivated entrepreneur residing in Canada and are a Canadian citizen or Permanent Resident.

Prepare Required Documents

Complete the financing application form.
Draft a comprehensive business plan outlining your business vision and structure.
Prepare a one-year cash flow projection to exhibit your financial planning.
Update your resume to reflect relevant experience and skills.
Obtain a recent credit report to include with your application.
Gather any additional supporting documentation that may help your application.

Submit Application

Gather all prepared documents into a complete application package.
Submit the application through the Rise online portal or mail to the designated address as directed on their site.

Confirmation and Follow-up

Receive confirmation of application submission via email or portal notification.
Keep in touch with Rise for any updates or further requests for information regarding your application.

Additional information

Rise offers a mentorship program connecting entrepreneurs with experienced business professionals for guidance and support.
Business plan and cash flow templates are available for download to assist applicants in preparing necessary documentation.
Rise’s lending decisions are character-based, considering both personal and business aspects, not solely credit score.
Entrepreneurs receive support in developing business skills and financial management through additional resources.