Futurpreneur Canada Indigenous Program ### 📋 Eligible Entities - Indigenous entrepreneurs (First Nations, Inuit, or Métis) - Age requirement: 18–39 years old - Business stage: Startup or early-stage business owners - Residency: Canadian residents - Business type: For-profit businesses in most sectors (some restrictions may apply) ### 💰 Funding Details - Loan amount: Up to $60,000 (collateral-free) - Repayability: Loan must be repaid (not a grant) - Interest rate: Competitive rates (specific terms vary by province) - Repayment period: Typically 5–10 years - Down payment: Not required - Additional support: 2 years of expert business mentoring included with loan ### 🛠️ Approved Expenses - Startup equipment and machinery - Inventory purchases - Technology and software systems - Renovations and leasehold improvements - Working capital for initial operations - Professional services (accounting, legal setup) - Marketing and branding materials - Business training and development ### ⚠️ Conditions & Milestones - Business plan requirement: Must submit a comprehensive business plan for approval - Mentor engagement: Mandatory participation in 2 years of mentoring sessions - Reporting: Regular financial reporting and business progress updates required - Loan covenants: Must maintain business viability and meet repayment obligations - Indigenous verification: Proof of Indigenous status (band membership or citizenship documents) - Business location: Must operate in Canada - Approval timeline: 6–8 weeks from application submission to funding decision - Drawdown conditions: Funds released in tranches based on business milestones and mentor approval