If your First Nation–owned business is planning a large project in Manitoba, traditional bank financing may not cover the full cost. The Manitoba First Peoples Economic Growth Fund: Joint Venture Program offers repayable financing to support large-scale, profit-driven projects led by Manitoba First Nations. This program is for projects over $500,000 where Indigenous ownership and control are central to the deal.
The Joint Venture Program is part of the First Peoples Economic Growth Fund (FPEGF), a Manitoba-based funding organization focused on growing First Nations economies. Unlike a non-repayable grant, this program provides repayable financing to help First Nation–owned businesses participate in large commercial projects and joint ventures.
Key program facts:
Before applying, make sure your business meets all core eligibility rules. Applications that miss one requirement are often declined early.
Your business must:
Joint ventures are allowed, but First Nations ownership and control must still meet the 51% threshold.
This program targets large-scale economic development projects. It is for times when you need more money than a regular small business loan provides.
Common funded project types include:
The program will cover up to 50% of total project costs, so you must secure the remaining financing from other sources such as banks, partners, or other programs.
You can use tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher to quickly find which other Manitoba or Indigenous-focused programs may combine with this financing.
While the exact application process may vary by project complexity, most applicants follow these steps:
Prepare a detailed business plan
Include financial projections, ownership structure, and how the joint venture will generate profit.
Confirm your ownership and control structure
You will need clear documentation showing at least 51% Manitoba First Nations ownership and control.
Outline total project costs and financing sources
Show how the FPEGF financing fits within the full funding mix.
Submit your application to FPEGF
Applications are reviewed for financial viability, economic impact, and risk.
Respond to follow-up questions or due diligence
Large projects often require additional financial or legal review before approval.
Treating this like a non-repayable grant
This is repayable financing. Your cash flow and repayment plan matter.
Weak joint venture agreements
Unclear roles, ownership, or decision-making authority can stall approval.
Underestimating total project costs
Projects must exceed $500,000. Incomplete budgets raise red flags.
Missing the 51% ownership requirement
Even strong projects are declined if ownership and control do not qualify.
Q: How much funding can I receive from the Joint Venture Program?
You can receive between $200,000 and $1,000,000, up to 50% of total project costs. Projects must exceed $500,000 in total costs.
Q: Is the funding repayable or a grant?
The Joint Venture Program provides repayable financing, not a non-repayable grant. Repayment terms are assessed as part of the application.
Q: Do not-for-profit organizations qualify?
No. Projects must have a clear profit objective. Not-for-profit projects are not considered.
Q: Does my business have to operate in Manitoba?
Yes. Your business must primarily operate in Manitoba to be eligible.
Q: Is repayable financing taxable income?
Repayable financing is generally not treated as taxable income, but you should confirm accounting treatment with your advisor.
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