Métis-Dene Development Fund ### 📋 Eligible Entities - Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) operating in the Northwest Territories (NWT) - Indigenous-owned businesses (Métis, Dene, and other Indigenous peoples) - Non-Indigenous SMEs also eligible if operating in the NWT - Businesses must be legally established and operating or actively planning to operate in the NWT - Sole proprietorships, partnerships, and incorporated companies qualify - Businesses across various sectors including retail, services, manufacturing, and resource-based industries ### 💰 Funding Details - Loan Guarantees: Government-backed guarantees to reduce lender risk on commercial loans - Working Capital Loans: Short-term financing for operational needs - Lines of Credit: Revolving credit facilities for flexible access to funds - Term Loans: Fixed-term financing for capital investments and business expansion - Financing Options: Various repayment structures available depending on business needs - Matching Requirements: Specific matching ratios determined on a case-by-case basis through lender assessment - Repayability: All loans must be repaid according to negotiated terms with lending partners - Interest Rates & Terms: Determined by participating lenders; fund provides guarantee backing to improve loan accessibility ### 🛠️ Approved Expenses - Business Advisory Services: Professional consulting and mentoring support - Working Capital: Operating expenses, inventory, and day-to-day business costs - Capital Equipment: Purchase of machinery, technology, and business assets - Infrastructure: Facility improvements and business infrastructure development - Inventory & Materials: Stock and supplies for business operations - Technology & Software: Digital tools and systems for business operations - Expansion & Growth: Costs associated with scaling operations or entering new markets - Training & Development: Employee skills development and professional training ### ⚠️ Conditions & Milestones - Geographic Requirement: Business must be located in or serving the Northwest Territories - Business Viability: Applicant must demonstrate a viable business plan and ability to repay - Credit Assessment: Subject to lender credit