If you run a Métis-owned business in Manitoba, the LRCC Program eligibility checklist can help you confirm if you qualify for funding. The Louis Riel Capital Corporation (LRCC) offers one of the largest Indigenous-focused business financing programs in the province. Eligible businesses may receive up to $99,999 in non-repayable grant funding and commercial loans up to $250,000.
This checklist explains the requirements so you can see if your business is a good fit and what documents you need.
The LRCC — Business Grant & Loan Program is designed to support Métis entrepreneurs with a mix of grants and repayable loans. To qualify, your business must meet all of the core eligibility conditions below.
Your business must be Métis-owned and controlled. The main criteria are:
LRCC funding supports a specific business project. The main points are:
For more details on eligible expenses, check out What Business Expenses Are Eligible Across Canadian Grants and Loans?
You must show financial commitment to your project:
If you meet the LRCC Program eligibility checklist, funding can include:
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you find other Indigenous and Manitoba-based programs quickly, so you have more than one option to consider.
LRCC needs proof of MMF citizenship when you apply. If your card is expired or pending, it can delay or stop your application.
Most projects must be over $40,000. Smaller projects may not qualify unless they are clear expansions.
Passive ownership is not enough. LRCC looks for at least one Métis owner who is involved in daily business decisions.
You must show your personal investment with clear proof, like bank records. If this is missing or unclear, your application may be declined.
Q: Who is eligible for the LRCC Business Grant & Loan Program?
Businesses must be at least 51% Red River Métis-owned, have valid MMF citizenship, and be registered and operating in Manitoba. One Métis owner must be involved in daily operations.
Q: How much funding can I receive from LRCC?
Eligible businesses can receive up to $99,999 in grant funding and up to $250,000 in commercial loans, depending on the project and business finances.
Q: Is the LRCC grant repayable?
No. The grant portion is non-repayable. Any loan funding must be paid back under commercial terms.
Q: What is the minimum project size for LRCC funding?
Projects usually need to be over $40,000, but smaller projects may be considered for expansions.
Q: Can startups apply for LRCC funding?
Yes. Startups, acquisitions, and expanding businesses are all eligible if they meet the ownership, residency, and investment requirements.
GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant and loan programs across Canada, including Indigenous-specific funding, so you can check which ones match your business profile.
If you meet the LRCC Program eligibility checklist, your next step is to gather proof of MMF citizenship, business registration, and your 10% cash contribution. Many Métis-owned businesses also qualify for other Manitoba or Indigenous funding, which can sometimes be combined with LRCC support if set up the right way.
To keep researching, check out Futurpreneur and BDC Loans for Indigenous Startups: Terms and What to Expect and How to Stack Grants and Loans Without Violating Funding Rules.
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