If you’re an Indigenous business owner in Canada looking for financing, the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) is a key place to start. Through the Indigenous Entrepreneur Loan, BDC offers repayable funding designed for Indigenous-owned businesses. But how much can you actually get, and what does BDC consider when deciding the amount?
With BDC’s Indigenous-focused financing, eligible businesses can access up to $350,000 in repayable funding, depending on your business needs and BDC’s assessment.
The BDC Indigenous Entrepreneur Loan is a federal loan program—not a grant. You must repay the funds under the terms agreed with BDC.
BDC decides the loan amount based on:
Not every applicant will get the maximum. Startups or early-stage businesses may qualify for smaller amounts, while established companies may access higher funding.
You can use the BDC loan for many business costs, like equipment, marketing, or working capital:
GrantHub makes it easy to compare BDC loans with Indigenous-specific grants and other business programs across Canada.
To qualify for BDC’s Indigenous Entrepreneur Loan, you must meet certain requirements.
BDC works with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit entrepreneurs. Sole proprietors, partnerships, and incorporated businesses are all eligible.
While BDC does not publicly state a fixed ownership percentage, Indigenous ownership and control are key to eligibility. BDC may ask for documents to prove this during your application.
Check Your Eligibility
Make sure your business is Indigenous-owned, located in Canada, and for-profit.
Prepare Your Documents
Gather financial statements, a business plan, and proof of Indigenous ownership.
Contact BDC
You can apply online through the BDC website or talk to a BDC advisor who works with Indigenous entrepreneurs.
Submit Your Application
Include your financials, use-of-funds plan, and any other required documents.
Wait for Assessment
BDC reviews your application, may ask for more details, and will let you know the amount you qualify for.
You can also use GrantHub to see what other Indigenous business funding options are available before or after applying for BDC financing.
This loan must be repaid. Make sure you understand the repayment terms and how they fit into your cash flow.
If you ask for $350,000 without a clear plan, your application may be weaker. Show BDC how the loan will help your business grow and how you will repay it.
BDC usually expects recent financial statements or projections. Outdated or missing numbers can slow down your approval.
In Canada, BDC loans can sometimes be combined with non-repayable Indigenous grants or provincial programs. For example, you might receive a grant from Indigenous Services Canada or a provincial Indigenous business grant and use a BDC loan for the rest of your costs. This can help reduce your overall financing burden.
Q: How much funding can Indigenous businesses get from BDC?
Eligible Indigenous-owned businesses can receive up to $350,000 through BDC’s Indigenous Entrepreneur Loan, based on business needs and BDC’s assessment.
Q: Is the BDC Indigenous Entrepreneur Loan a grant or a loan?
It is a repayable loan. The full amount must be repaid under the agreed terms.
Q: Is there a deadline to apply for BDC Indigenous financing?
No. The program is open on an ongoing basis while funding is available.
Q: Can startups apply for the Indigenous Entrepreneur Loan?
Yes. Startups may be eligible, but the approved amount depends on your financial projections, experience, and BDC’s risk assessment.
Q: Can BDC financing be combined with grants?
Yes, in many cases. For example, you can use a BDC loan with an Indigenous Services Canada grant or a provincial Indigenous business grant, if the total funding matches your business plan.
GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant and loan programs across Canada, including Indigenous-specific funding, so you can find the best fit for your business.
BDC can provide up to $350,000 in financing for Indigenous businesses, but the right mix of loans and grants depends on your stage, industry, and province. Before you apply, check which Indigenous grants and business loans are available to you. GrantHub helps you compare BDC financing with other programs across Canada, so you can plan your funding with confidence.
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