Canadian business grants can help businesses of all sizes get the funding they need to grow and succeed. In addition to providing financial assistance, grants can also help businesses develop new strategies, and improve their operations.
Standard government business loans or capital from banks, angel investors, and VC firms are often the funding channels of choice for Canadian entrepreneurs. However, if you are willing to invest the time, you may be able to for several Canadian business grants. These programs are offered by numerous organizations including provincial and federal governments as well as private entities like foundations. Depending on the nature of the grant and who’s offering it, these opportunities can be highly competitive or fairly easy. In some cases, you may even be able to get multiple grants to maximize your chances of receiving financial assistance.
Examples of the types of grants that you may be able to apply for in Canada:
- Startup Grants – This is one of the most common types of Canadian business grants available. Many of these programs are designed to encourage and support new businesses by providing financial and mentoring assistance. In addition, many startup grants also require that you develop a concrete business plan and present it to your local incubator or business association for approval.
- Research and Development Grants – This type of grant is often offered directly by governments but may also be offered through other organizations such as foundations and private companies. The amount of money that is awarded typically depends on the project’s overall budget.
- Business Expansion Grants – This type of grants is usually offered to existing companies. To companies who are struggling to keep up with the demand or are facing other challenges related to growth.
If you are thinking about applying for a grant in the near future, do your research ahead of a time to increase your chances to get approved. It might also be a good idea to consult with a business consultant.
The best resources for small business grants in 2022:
- Canada Startups funding database. Information and access to over 800 government grants and loans. You must pay a membership fee to search the database.
- Etools for exporting (Canada business database). A searchable database of provincial and territory-specific programs and services to help you find loans, grants, and other funding options for your small business or startup.
- Funding programs for employment and social development. A list of links to Canadian government grants and contributions that help support jobs, training, and social development.
- Fundingportal. Fundingportal helps you find funding from 11,000 government grants and business incentive programs in the U.S., Canada, and the UK.
- Futurepreneur Canada. The only national, nonprofit organization that provides financing, mentoring, and support tools to aspiring small business owners aged 18-39.
- Government of Canada business grants and financing. Gain access to information on all Canadian government grants, loans, private, and public sector financing and leveraging personal assets.
- Mitacs. You’ll find a list of programs and funds available for projects that connect Canadian academia, industry, and the world—to create a more innovative Canada.
- Indigenous small business owner funding programs. A list of Canadian government funding services for First Nations or Indigenous citizens of Canada.