Funding & Grants
Explore funding options available for newcomer entrepreneurs and secure the capital you need to launch and grow your business.
Funding Your Canadian Business
Securing adequate funding is a critical step in your entrepreneurial journey. As a newcomer to Canada, you have access to various funding options specifically designed to support immigrant entrepreneurs. This step will guide you through identifying suitable funding sources, preparing compelling applications, and developing financial projections to support your business growth.
Key Funding Sources
Non-repayable funds provided by federal, provincial, and municipal governments to support business development, innovation, and job creation.
Small loans (typically under $15,000) designed for entrepreneurs who may not qualify for traditional bank financing, often with more flexible eligibility requirements.
Individual investors who provide capital for startups, usually in exchange for equity or convertible debt, often bringing valuable expertise and networks.
Investment funds that manage pooled money from investors to provide capital to high-growth potential startups and businesses in exchange for equity.
Newcomer-Specific Funding Programs
Canada offers several funding programs specifically designed for newcomer entrepreneurs:
- Futurpreneur Canada Newcomer Program: Offers up to $60,000 in collateral-free loans for newcomers aged 18-39 who have been in Canada for less than five years.
- Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC): Provides specialized financing solutions for newcomer entrepreneurs, including working capital and equipment loans.
- Immigrant Access Fund: Offers microloans of up to $15,000 to help immigrants and refugees restart their careers or businesses in Canada.
- Start-Up Visa Program: Provides permanent residency to immigrant entrepreneurs who secure funding from designated Canadian venture capital funds, angel investor groups, or business incubators.
Funding Options at a Glance
| Type | Typical Amount | Repayment | Best For | Time to Funds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Government Grants | $5K – $500K+ | None | R&D, hiring, export | 3–6 months |
| Microloans | $500 – $50K | Yes (low rate) | Early-stage, limited credit history | 2–6 weeks |
| Bank Loans (BDC/CIBC) | $10K – $2M | Yes (market rate) | Established revenue, collateral available | 4–8 weeks |
| Angel Investment | $25K – $500K | Equity (5–20%) | High-growth startups, tech | 1–4 months |
| Venture Capital | $500K – $10M+ | Equity (20–40%) | Scalable businesses, Series A+ | 3–9 months |
| Crowdfunding | $1K – $250K | None or rewards | Consumer products, creative projects | 30–90 days |
Featured Programs for Newcomer Entrepreneurs
Collateral-free financing for newcomers aged 18–39 who have been in Canada for under 5 years. Includes mandatory mentorship through BDC.
Canada's leading business bank offers specialized financing for newcomer entrepreneurs, including working capital, equipment, and technology loans with flexible repayment.
Helps immigrants and refugees access affordable microloans to restart their careers or businesses. No credit score required — decisions based on character and business plan.
Offers permanent residency to immigrant entrepreneurs who secure backing from a designated Canadian venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator. Business must be innovative and scalable.
Guide Disclaimer
The steps, eligibility criteria, and amounts below reflect commonly published standards from federal and provincial sources. They are a starting reference, not a guarantee of approval or an official requirement. Every funding agency uses its own vetting process, and the specific criteria that apply to your application will always be stated clearly in that program's official application documents. Amounts, rates, and terms change — always verify with the funder directly before applying.
Funding Eligibility Guide
Authentic, curated information on how Canadian funding programs work — sourced from government and agency websites and written in plain language.
Estimated Time
4-8 weeks
Key Tasks
3 essential activities
Resources Available
20 guides, tools, and templates
Prerequisite
Business Plan Draft
Your Progress
Progress tracking is coming soon. Use the Tasks tab to see what to work on next.