Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program: Access to Capital
The Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program – Access to Capital stream provides annual, ongoing funding to Indigenous entrepreneurs through the network of Indigenous Financial Institutions (IFIs) and Métis Capital Corporations (MCCs). The AEP provides support to Indigenous small and medium-sized businesses with a non-repayable equity contribution and businesses services to start, expand or acquire a business.
Offered by Indigenous Services Canada (ISC)
Amount
Individual Indigenous entrepreneurs may receive up to $99,999 in funding assistance and eligible Indigenous community businesses may receive up to $250,000 (non-repayable equity contribution; amount depends on the proposal's scope, demonstrated need and estimated budget)
Quick eligibility check
Who can apply
Eligible recipients include:
- Indigenous individuals, including businesses owned and controlled by Indigenous Peoples
- Indigenous organizations and associations, except those with charitable or religious purposes
Funding can be accessed through Indigenous Financial Institutions and MĂ©tis Capital Corporations across Canada. Eligibility varies between IFIs and MCCs. Consult with your local IFI or MCCs to see if you are eligible.
About the funding
The Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program – Access to Capital stream provides annual, ongoing funding to Indigenous entrepreneurs through the network of Indigenous Financial Institutions (IFIs) and Métis Capital Corporations (MCCs). The AEP provides support to Indigenous small and medium-sized businesses with a non-repayable equity contribution and businesses services to start, expand or acquire a business. The AEP also provides funding to lenders to cover the costs of borrowing and operations to support their lending activities. This program is devolved and is administered by the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA) via IFIs and MCCs across Canada, and enhances access to capital for First Nations, Inuit and Métis businesses in Canada.
The amount of funding available for a business proposal depends on its scope, demonstrated need and its estimated budget. Individual Indigenous entrepreneurs may receive up to $99,999 in funding assistance and eligible Indigenous community businesses may receive up to $250,000.
Similar programs
| Program | Type | Amount | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| AgriScience Program – Projects | Grant, In-Kind Support | Up to $5 million per project and $10 million per applicant over the program's duration (2023 to 2028) | Open |
| AAFC AgriInvest | Grant | Deposit up to 100% of your Allowable Net Sales and receive a matching government contribution on 1% of your Allowable Net Sales (Allowable Net Sales limited to $1 million when calculating your matchable deposit) | Open |
| Access Support Fund | Grant | No fixed amount | Open |
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