PrairiesCan — Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP) Ecosystem Fund

Organizations working to strengthen entrepreneurship support for Black Canadians across the Prairie provinces may find a significant opportunity through the PrairiesCan — Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP) Ecosystem Fund. This initiative responds to a growing need for culturally relevant, community-based support systems that help Black entrepreneurs start, scale, and sustain their businesses. Delivered by Prairies Economic Development Canada, the program focuses on building a stronger ecosystem rather than funding individual businesses directly.

The Ecosystem Fund is designed for Black-led not-for-profit organizations that provide hands-on support such as incubator or accelerator programming, mentorship, networking, and practical business guidance. Projects might involve expanding existing programs, launching new advisory services, or creating stronger connections between entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts. Funding is non-repayable and can reach into the millions for larger, multi-year initiatives, allowing organizations to plan longer-term projects that create lasting impact across their communities.

Support can be used for staffing, professional services, training, and other project-related costs that enhance the reach and quality of entrepreneurship services. For organizations in the Prairie region looking to scale their impact and play a larger role in supporting Black-owned businesses, reviewing the full program details can help clarify whether this funding aligns with their mission and growth plans.