Kakivak Association Small Tool Grants: Eligible Tools and Supplies

If you are an Inuit artist or craftsperson in Nunavut, buying the right tools can be a major barrier to earning income from your work. The Kakivak Association Small Tool Grants help cover the cost of essential tools and supplies so you can produce, improve, or expand your craft. This program offers up to $2,500 in repayable funding and is designed for hands-on, equipment-focused needs.

What Tools and Supplies Are Eligible Under the Kakivak Association Small Tool Grants?

The Kakivak Association — Small Tool Grants program supports tools and supplies directly used in artistic or craft production. The funding is not meant for day-to-day business costs or large equipment. It focuses on practical items that help you create finished products.

Eligible tools and supplies

Based on program guidance and FAQs, eligible purchases typically include:

Carving tools
- Hand chisels, knives, files, and related carving equipment
- Often capped at up to $1,000 for carving tools
Sewing and textile equipment
- Sewing machines and essential attachments
- Funding can go up to $2,500 for sewing machines
Art and craft supplies
- Materials used directly in production, such as hides, fabric, threads, or carving materials
- Supplies must be clearly tied to your craft output
Small hand tools
- Tools required for finishing, shaping, or assembling items
- Must be reasonable in size and cost for individual use

The key test Kakivak uses is purpose. If the tool or supply is essential to creating your artwork or craft products, it is more likely to be approved.

What is not covered

The Small Tool Grants program does not support:

Operating costs like rent, utilities, or internet
Large machinery or heavy industrial equipment
Marketing, advertising, or website costs
Travel or training expenses

Only tools and supplies are eligible under this program.

Who can apply

To be eligible, you must meet all of the following criteria:

You are an Inuit artist or craftsperson
You are operating in Nunavut
You have not received a Kakivak Small Tool Grant in the last five years
You understand that the funding is repayable, not a non-repayable grant

You do not need to be incorporated. Many applicants apply as sole proprietors or independent artists.

GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you quickly confirm whether this program — and others in Nunavut — fit your business profile.

How Much Funding Can You Receive?

The Kakivak Association Small Tool Grants offer:

Up to $2,500 in repayable funding
Lower limits for certain categories, such as carving tools (often up to $1,000)
Funding availability depends on program budgets and demand

Because the funding is repayable, you should ask Kakivak about repayment terms before accepting the funds.

How to Apply and Strengthen Your Application

Preparing a strong application can improve your chances of approval. Here are some steps and tips:

List every tool or supply you need
Be specific. Include make, model, and price if possible.
Explain how each item supports your craft
Write a short description of how you will use the tool or supply in your work.
Gather supporting documents
This could include quotes from suppliers, photos of your current work, or letters of support.
Double-check eligibility
Make sure you have not received this grant in the past five years and that all items are eligible.
Contact Kakivak for guidance
If you are unsure about an item, ask Kakivak staff before submitting your application.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applying for ineligible expenses
Requests for rent, marketing, or travel are usually declined. Stick to tools and supplies only.
Requesting large or industrial equipment
This program is for small tools. Oversized or commercial machinery is unlikely to be approved.
Ignoring the five-year rule
If you received this grant within the last five years, your application will not be eligible.
Not explaining how the tool will be used
Kakivak needs to see a clear link between the tool and your craft production.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who is eligible for the Kakivak Association Small Tool Grants?
Only Inuit artists or craftspeople operating in Nunavut can apply. You do not need to be incorporated to qualify.

Q: How much funding can I receive?
You can receive up to $2,500 in repayable funding. Some tool categories, such as carving tools, may have lower maximums.

Q: Is the Kakivak Small Tool Grant repayable?
Yes. This program provides repayable funding, so you are expected to pay it back under agreed terms.

Q: How often can I apply?
You can receive a Small Tool Grant once every five years.

Q: Is there a deadline to apply?
The program is currently open, but funding is limited. Applications may close once funds are fully allocated.

GrantHub tracks active grant programs across Canada — including Inuit and Northern-focused funding — so you can check which ones match your business profile.

Next Steps

If you are planning to apply for the Kakivak Association Small Tool Grants, start by listing the exact tools or supplies you need and how they support your craft. Then compare this program with other Nunavut and Indigenous-focused funding options. With GrantHub, you can see which programs align with your location, activity, and funding needs — so you can focus on applications that make sense for your business.

Kakivak Association Small Tool Grants: Eligible Tools and Supplies