Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program — Access to Capital

Access to affordable capital can be one of the biggest barriers facing Indigenous entrepreneurs who are ready to start, grow, or acquire a business. The Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program — Access to Capital is designed to help close that gap by providing meaningful, non-repayable financial support to Indigenous-owned businesses across Canada. Delivered nationally through the National Aboriginal Capital Corporation Association (NACCA), the program works with a network of Indigenous Financial Institutions and Métis Capital Corporations that understand the realities of Indigenous entrepreneurship at the community level.

This funding stream offers non-repayable equity contributions of up to around $100,000 to help businesses move forward with key initiatives. Support can be used for a wide range of business needs, including business planning, expansion projects, acquisitions, marketing in domestic or export markets, product or process development, and the introduction of new technologies. The program is well suited for small and medium-sized businesses, as well as certain Indigenous organizations, that are focused on building long-term viability rather than taking on additional debt. Funding levels are tied to the scope and budget of the proposed project, allowing flexibility for different stages of business growth.

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis, with funding accessed through local Indigenous Financial Institutions or Métis Capital Corporations. For Indigenous entrepreneurs considering their next step, learning more about how this program works and whether it fits your business plans is a strong place to start.