Aboriginal Business Development Program (ABDP)

Overview of the Aboriginal Business Development Program (ABDP) program:

The Aboriginal Business Development Program (ABDP), managed by the Société de crédit commercial autochtone (SOCCA), aims to strengthen Indigenous entrepreneurship in Quebec by offering non-repayable financial assistance to viable projects owned by members or entities of recognized First Nations or the Native Alliance of Quebec. The program supports both private and community projects and funds a broad range of business activities, including preliminary studies, capital costs, marketing initiatives, and management support. Eligible expenditures can include costs for business plans, environmental or valuation assessments, acquisition of equipment and inventory, commercial building improvements, advertising materials, and even consulting support in human resources and management. This contribution acts as a last-resort funding option, meaning applicants must first explore all other financial sources. The amount awarded depends on project cost, the applicant’s financial contribution, and the availability of complementary financing. The goal is to empower Indigenous business owners to transform their concepts into profitable ventures while maintaining active involvement in their businesses. SOCCA’s 30+ years of experience in Indigenous economic development ensures applicants receive guidance and expertise throughout the funding process.

Benefits of the Aboriginal Business Development Program (ABDP) program:

• Eligible for a wide range of costs: feasibility studies, equipment, marketing, and operational support.
• Available to both individual and community-based Indigenous projects.
• Access to SOCCAs network and expert guidance for business development.
• Tailored support throughout the application and project realization phases.
• Encourages economic self-determination and sustainability within First Nations communities.
• Promotes entrepreneurial experience, full-time engagement, and responsible financial planning.

Eligibility criteria of the Aboriginal Business Development Program (ABDP) program:

• To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:
• The business must be majority-owned by a First Nation or the Native Alliance of Quebec.
• Applicants must provide 10%25% of the project cost from their own resources.
• The project must be financially viable and profitable.
• Applicants must have a good credit history and relevant experience/training in their business field.
• The entrepreneur must be actively involved full-time (no passive investment).
• The project must have no negative impact on competition.
• Businesses in certain prohibited sectors are ineligible, including gambling, sex industries, alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, electronic cigarettes, and cryptocurrency.
• All other funding sources must be maximized before applying (ABDP is considered a last-resort contribution).
• Costs incurred before approval are not eligible