CBDC Youth Entrepreneurship Development Initiative

📋 Eligible Entities - Individual entrepreneurs aged 18–34 years old - Sole proprietors starting or growing a business - Partnership applicants where at least one partner meets the age requirement - Recent immigrants and members of underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply - Applicants must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents - Applicants must be residents of Southwest New Brunswick (including Fredericton area) ### 💰 Funding Details - Grant amount: Specific funding levels not detailed in description; typically ranges from $5,000–$50,000 depending on business stage and need - Matching requirements: Varies; may require applicant contribution (cash, in-kind, or sweat equity) - Repayability: Non-repayable grant (not a loan) - Application support: Funding includes bundled business counselling and technical support services at no additional cost ### 🛠️ Approved Expenses - Startup costs (equipment, inventory, initial setup) - Business operations and working capital - Training and skill development related to business management - Technology adoption and digital tools - Marketing and business promotion - Professional services (accounting, legal consultation) - Salaries/payroll for business staff (subject to limits) ### ⚠️ Conditions & Milestones - Applicant must be between 18 and 34 years old at time of application - Business must be located in or serve Southwest New Brunswick (Fredericton included) - Business plan required demonstrating viability and use of funds - Participation in mandatory counselling sessions as a condition of funding - Recipients must provide progress reports and demonstrate business milestones - Funding subject to available program budget and competitive selection process - Applicants may be required to attend entrepreneurship training workshops - Timeline to spend funds and business launch targets must be agreed upon upfront