Strong planning is often the biggest barrier for Indigenous entrepreneurs and communities looking to turn ideas into viable ventures. In New Brunswick, the JEDI Aboriginal Development Fund — CED helps address that challenge by sharing the cost of early-stage business and economic development planning. Delivered by the Joint Economic Development Initiative, the program is designed to support First Nation communities, entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and small businesses as they lay the groundwork for sustainable growth.
This fund focuses on planning and capacity-building activities rather than day-to-day operations. Support can help offset a significant portion of costs related to business or expansion plans, marketing strategies, management training, mentoring, and entrepreneurship development initiatives. Funding is non-repayable and provided on a reimbursement basis, with contributions typically covering up to half of eligible planning expenses, reaching roughly up to $15,000 depending on the project. Both community-owned initiatives and individually owned businesses can benefit, making the program flexible for different economic development models within First Nation communities.
Because funding is limited and assessed as applications come in, businesses and organizations considering this opportunity are encouraged to plan ahead and apply early. For Indigenous entrepreneurs and community leaders in New Brunswick looking to strengthen their business foundations, learning more about how this fund works can be an important first step toward long-term success.
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