Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program — Access to Capital ### 📋 Eligible Entities - Aboriginal-owned businesses (First Nations, Métis, and Inuit entrepreneurs) - Sole proprietors with Aboriginal ownership - Partnerships where Aboriginal individuals hold controlling interest - Corporations with Aboriginal majority ownership - Cooperatives with Aboriginal membership and control - Businesses must be Canadian-based and operating or planning to operate in Canada ### 💰 Funding Details - Grant Amount: Up to $99,999 per applicant - Type: Non-repayable equity contribution (grant, not a loan) - Matching Requirements: Typically requires applicant or co-investor contribution (verify with program administrator) - Repayability: Non-repayable — funds do not need to be returned - Currency: Canadian dollars ### 🛠️ Approved Expenses - Business planning and feasibility studies - Business acquisitions - Business expansion (physical or operational) - Domestic marketing initiatives - Export marketing and market development - New product or process development - Research and development (R&D) - Introduction and adoption of new technologies - Working capital for eligible business activities - Equipment and infrastructure purchases (when linked to approved uses) ### ⚠️ Conditions & Milestones - Business Viability: Applicant must demonstrate a viable business plan with reasonable profit potential - Aboriginal Ownership: Proof of Aboriginal status and controlling ownership required (documentation varies by program stream) - No Existing Default: Applicant cannot be in default on previous government funding - Use of Funds: Money must be used exclusively for approved business purposes - Reporting Requirements: Recipient must provide progress reports and financial statements as requested - Timeline: Funds typically disbursed upon approval and receipt of required documentation - Restrictions: Cannot be used for personal expenses, debt repayment, or prohibited activities (e.g., gambling, alcohol production without license) - Program Access: May be delivered through Indigenous-focused financial institutions or government partners