Indigenous & Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Financing

Overview of Indigenous Entrepreneurship Financing

Canada’s Indigenous entrepreneurs play a vital role in building strong local economies, creating jobs, and advancing self-determination. To support these goals, several national organizations — including Indigenous Services Canada (ISC), the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA), and the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business (CCAB) — provide specialized loan programs, grants, and capacity-building resources to help Indigenous-owned businesses start, expand, and succeed.

These programs are designed to improve access to capital and advisory services for First Nations, Métis, and Inuit entrepreneurs who may face barriers in conventional banking. They provide:

• Start-up and expansion loans with flexible terms
• Grants, contributions, and blended funding (loan plus grant)
• Mentorship and business development training
• Support for community-owned and individual enterprises

Each organization offers distinct yet complementary resources that together form a strong national network for Indigenous business development.

Who Can Apply

These programs collectively serve:

• Status and non-status First Nations, Métis, and Inuit entrepreneurs
• Community-owned enterprises and co-operatives
• Indigenous youth and women entrepreneurs
• Economic development corporations and social enterprises

Eligibility varies by program but generally requires proof of Indigenous ownership (usually 51% or more) and a viable business plan.

👉 Find Your Local Aboriginal Financial Institution (AFI)

Why Indigenous Entrepreneurs Choose These Programs

• Access to capital in communities underserved by mainstream banks
• Mentorship and business advisory support through local AFIs
• Culturally appropriate financial structures and relationship-based lending
• Partnerships with government and private-sector funders
• Support for community development, employment, and self-sufficiency

Together, NACCA, ISC, and CCAB form an ecosystem that helps Indigenous businesses grow from concept to expansion.

The Role of The Biz Plans

At The Biz Plans, we specialize in preparing Indigenous entrepreneurship business plans that meet the standards of funding bodies such as NACCA AFIs, ISC, and CCAB partner programs.

• Professional business plans and financial models that demonstrate feasibility
• Guidance on aligning your plan with funding priorities (community impact, sustainability, job creation)
• Support for funding applications, contribution agreements, and loan documentation
• Plans tailored for both community-owned and individually owned enterprises

We’ve helped clients across Canada secure funding for start-ups, expansions, and social enterprises through these programs.

How to Apply for Indigenous Entrepreneurship Financing

1. Identify your nearest Aboriginal Financial Institution (AFI). 👉 Find an AFI Near You
2. Explore government funding programs via ISC’s EBD Program.
3. Get certified and network through CCAB.
4. Prepare your business plan and financial projections (we can help).
5. Submit your application to your AFI or funding body and work with your advisor to finalize funding arrangements.

Additional Resources

• National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA)
• Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business (CCAB)