Aboriginal Business Investment Fund

For Indigenous communities in Alberta looking to turn economic development plans into shovel-ready projects, access to large-scale capital funding can be the missing piece. The Aboriginal Business Investment Fund (ABIF) is designed to support Indigenous community-owned initiatives that are ready to move toward construction, expansion, or launch, helping communities build long-term economic strength through business ownership and local revenue generation.

Delivered by Alberta’s Ministry of Indigenous Relations, ABIF provides substantial non-repayable funding, often ranging from the mid-six figures up to roughly three-quarters of a million dollars. The funding focuses specifically on capital investments, such as constructing or upgrading buildings, developing infrastructure, or purchasing essential equipment. Projects supported through the program are expected to demonstrate long-term viability and meaningful community impact, including job creation and sustained economic benefits. Funding can cover a significant portion of eligible project costs and may be combined with other government or industry financing, making it especially valuable for larger, community-driven developments.

The program runs through annual intake cycles, and while the current intake is closed, future application periods are planned. Indigenous community-owned organizations and nonprofits considering major capital projects may want to prepare early, as strong applications typically show community backing, sound business planning, and clear economic outcomes. Reviewing the full program details through GrantHub can help determine whether ABIF aligns with your community’s development goals.