Starting a business as an Indigenous entrepreneur can be challenging. Limited capital and early risk make it harder to get started. Trusted support is also important. The Futurpreneur Canada Indigenous Startup Program (IESP) provides support by offering startup financing and mentorship designed for Indigenous youth. The program provides up to $75,000 in repayable, equity-free loans—a combined maximum from Futurpreneur and BDC, not a single loan—and up to two years of mentorship.
The Indigenous Startup Program (IESP) is a national financing program from Futurpreneur Canada, in partnership with the BDC (Business Development Bank of Canada). It supports Indigenous entrepreneurs who are launching or have recently launched a business.
The program provides:
This program is available across Canada and is designed for new and early-stage businesses, including those that have not made sales yet.
To apply for the Futurpreneur Canada Indigenous Startup Program, you must meet all the main eligibility requirements.
You are eligible if you:
Location note: Indigenous entrepreneurs living on reserve are eligible. Businesses can be located anywhere in Canada.
The Indigenous Startup Program offers tiered financing:
Futurpreneur loan:
BDC loan (optional, after approval):
Note: The maximum total funding available is $75,000, which is the sum of the Futurpreneur and BDC loans. These loans do not require you to give up ownership in your business. You keep full control.
The application process is clear and straightforward if you prepare well.
You need a business plan that explains:
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you find other funding programs that may work with Futurpreneur financing.
Apply directly through Futurpreneur Canada. You will need to provide:
A Futurpreneur advisor will review your application and may ask for:
If approved:
Mentorship is a key part of the Indigenous Startup Program. Once your loan is approved, you will be paired with a mentor who has business experience. Your mentor will offer advice and guidance for up to two years. This support can help you make better decisions and avoid common mistakes. You will also have access to workshops, networking events, and online business tools through Futurpreneur.
Be realistic with your numbers.
Make sure your financial projections are honest and based on research.
Show that you are the main owner.
You must own at least 51% and be involved in running the business.
Apply early.
If your business has been operating for more than 12 months, you are not eligible.
Remember, this is a loan.
The funds must be repaid with interest. Plan for regular payments in your budget.
Overestimating revenue or underestimating expenses
This often causes delays in the approval process.
Not showing active ownership
Passive investors or minority owners are not eligible.
Confusing loans with grants
The Indigenous Startup Program is a repayable loan, not a grant.
Waiting too long after launch
Businesses running for more than 12 months cannot apply.
Q: Is the Futurpreneur Canada Indigenous Startup Program a grant?
No. It is a repayable, equity-free loan. You keep full ownership, but you must repay the loan with interest.
Q: Do I need to be incorporated to apply?
Not always. Sole proprietors, partnerships, and corporations can apply. The structure must match your business plan.
Q: How long does the application process take?
Most applications take several weeks from start to approval, depending on how ready you are and if changes are needed.
Q: Is the loan taxable income?
No. Loan funds are not income. Interest payments are usually a deductible business expense.
Q: Can I combine this with other grants or loans?
Yes, in many cases. You must list all funding sources and make sure you do not claim the same expenses twice.
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