Community Futures Network of Canada - Grant Brief ### 📋 Eligible Entities - Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) located in rural communities - Self-employed individuals and sole proprietors - Partnerships operating in eligible rural regions - Agricultural businesses in rural areas - Non-profit organizations providing community services - Social enterprises in rural communities - Businesses that do not qualify for federal wage subsidy programs or other government supports - Must be located within a Community Futures region (varies by province/territory) ### 💰 Funding Details - Loan Structure: Primarily provided as repayable loans (not grants despite the name) - Loan Amount: Typically ranges from $5,000 to $250,000+ depending on business need and local CF organization - Interest Rates: Competitive rates, often lower than traditional bank financing - Matching Requirements: Varies by local Community Futures organization; some require owner equity contribution - Repayment Terms: Flexible terms typically 5-7 years (negotiable based on cash flow) - Collateral: May be required; security assessed on case-by-case basis - Repayability: Loans must be repaid; funds are not forgivable grants ### 🛠️ Approved Expenses - Operating Costs: Payroll, wages, and employee-related expenses - Inventory: Purchase of stock and materials needed for operations - Equipment & Machinery: Business equipment and tools - Technology & Software: Digital tools and systems adoption - Facilities: Lease deposits, workspace setup, or facility improvements - Working Capital: General operating expenses to maintain business continuity - Business Development: Training and skill development for employees ### ⚠️ Conditions & Milestones - Geographic Requirement: Business must operate in designated rural Community Futures region - Business Viability: Applicant must demonstrate ability to repay the loan - Documentation: Requires business plan, financial statements, and personal credit assessment - Timeline: Application processing typically 4-8 weeks; varies by local organization - Reporting: Annual financial reporting and loan covenant compliance required - **