Backing Canadian Small Businesses

Overview of the Backing Canadian Small Businesses program:

The Backing Small Businesses Grant Program, a partnership between American Express Canada and DMZ (Toronto Metropolitan University), aims to empower small business owners from underrepresented groups across Canada. The program will award ten small businesses with $10,000 CAD each, accompanied by a 6-month growth accelerator program offering personalized mentorship, growth planning, and access to industry experts. The initiative is designed to help small businesses scale their operations, increase visibility, and strengthen sustainability. A second component of the program is its focus on inclusive economic participation, particularly targeting entrepreneurs who face systemic barriers—such as Black, Indigenous, People of Colour, immigrants, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, and persons with disabilities. Through a competitive selection process, 10 businesses will be chosen based on their innovation, potential for impact, and how well they align with the values of inclusion and growth. Each recipient receives both financial backing and strategic support over six months. The DMZ, known for its global entrepreneurship accelerator programs, will provide resources such as one-on-one mentorship, virtual learning modules, and networking opportunities to strengthen the foundational aspects of each awarded business. This program demonstrates a strong commitment to inclusive entrepreneurship and small business sustainability in Canada.

Benefits of the Backing Canadian Small Businesses program:

• $10,000 CAD grant (non-repayable)
• Access to a 6-month virtual growth accelerator
• Personalized one-on-one mentorship
• Workshops and virtual learning opportunities
• Guidance in business scaling, marketing, and financial management
• Access to a network of entrepreneurs, industry professionals, and DMZ experts
• Visibility and potential media exposure through program partnership

Eligibility criteria of the Backing Canadian Small Businesses program:

• To be eligible, applicants must:
• Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
• Be at least 18 years of age
• Own a business that:
• Is registered and based in Canada
• Has been operating for at least 1 year
• Has no more than 20 employees
• Is at least 51% owned by individuals from underrepresented groups, including:
• Black, Indigenous, People of Colour (BIPOC)
• Immigrants and newcomers
• Members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community
• Persons with disabilities
• Women
• Demonstrate business viability and plans for scaling
• Commit to participating in the 6-month DMZ program