First Peoples Economic Growth Fund — Community Economic Expansion Program

📋 Eligible Entities - First Nations individuals and entrepreneurs - First Nations-owned businesses (sole proprietorships, partnerships, corporations) - First Nations communities and bands - Indigenous-controlled cooperatives and social enterprises - Businesses where First Nations members have controlling interest - New ventures and existing businesses seeking expansion or upgrades ### 💰 Funding Details - Loan Amount: Up to $300,000 (or 50% of project cost, whichever is less) - Interest Rate: 0% (interest-free) - Repayment Structure: Repayable loan (not a grant) - Matching Requirement: Applicant must cover remaining 50% of project costs - Loan Terms: Terms and repayment schedules determined on a case-by-case basis - Default Provisions: Subject to standard loan agreements and security requirements ### 🛠️ Approved Expenses - Business Start-up Costs: Capital for launching new First Nations businesses - Business Acquisition: Purchasing existing businesses or operations - Business Upgrades: Equipment, technology, and infrastructure improvements - Working Capital: Operational funds for expansion initiatives - Job Creation Activities: Investments that generate employment for First Nations members - Community Economic Development: Projects supporting broader economic growth within First Nations communities ### ⚠️ Conditions & Milestones - Matching Funds Required: Applicant must secure or contribute 50% of total project cost - Business Plan Submission: Detailed plan demonstrating viability and job creation potential - First Nations Benefit: Clear evidence of wealth and job creation for First Nations communities - Loan Agreement: Standard security and repayment terms apply - Eligibility Verification: Proof of First Nations status or community affiliation required - Reporting Requirements: Ongoing tracking of jobs created and business performance - Fund Deployment: Funds disbursed upon approval and execution of loan agreement - Default Consequences: Non-repayment triggers standard collection and legal remedies