Black Entrepreneurship Program Ecosystem Fund (Southern Ontario)

Overview of the Black Entrepreneurship Program Ecosystem Fund (Southern Ontario) program:

The Ecosystem Fund is a central component of the national Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP), an initiative designed to remove systemic barriers and expand opportunities for Black entrepreneurs in Canada. Administered by the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), the fund provides project-based, non-repayable contributions to Black-led not-for-profit organizations whose work directly supports entrepreneurship and community economic development. Projects must generate measurable results, expand the reach of entrepreneurship supports, and contribute to a stronger, more inclusive economy. Eligible initiatives include incubator or accelerator programs, mentorship networks, business advisory services, and specialized training such as financial literacy or digital skills. By funding organizations with deep community ties and Black-focused mandates, the Ecosystem Fund builds the capacity of local partners to deliver scalable programs that serve both urban and rural Black communities. It also promotes collaboration between ecosystem partners, particularly with the Federation of African Canadian Economics (FACE) and the Black Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub (BEKH). Funded organizations must share project data with BEKH and engage with FACE to coordinate support for entrepreneurs. Funding runs through 2030, ensuring continuity of services and sustainable ecosystem growth. Applicants must submit complete proposals demonstrating governance strength, fiscal responsibility, measurable outcomes, and a plan for long-term impact.

Benefits of the Black Entrepreneurship Program Ecosystem Fund (Southern Ontario) program:

• Enables Black-led not-for-profit organizations to strengthen and expand support for Black entrepreneurs.
• Provides significant grant funding up to $3 million to develop incubators, mentorship networks, and advisory programs.
• Encourages collaboration with FACE and BEKH for coordinated national support.
• Builds organizational capacity through staffing, program expansion, and infrastructure enhancement.
• Promotes inclusive economic growth by addressing systemic barriers in entrepreneurship.
• Supports training and digital literacy, financial education, and market access programs.
• Supports measurable outcomes such as job creation, business growth, and ecosystem resilience.

Eligibility criteria of the Black Entrepreneurship Program Ecosystem Fund (Southern Ontario) program:

• Eligible Applicants:
• Incorporated Black-led not-for-profit organization operating in southern Ontario.
• Must have at least two-thirds of leadership and governance positions held by individuals who self-identify as Black.
• Must have a mandate focused on supporting Black communities through business or economic development.
• Must demonstrate capacity and experience in delivering business support services.
• Eligible Activities:
• Networking and matchmaking for Black entrepreneurs.
• Business incubation or acceleration programs.
• Business advisory services to assist with planning, growth, and market access.
• Mentorship and training initiatives (e.g., digital literacy, financial management).
• Project Requirements:
• Must produce clear, measurable results (economic benefits, new jobs, enhanced services).
• Must have a detailed project plan and budget.
• Must comply with language accessibilityoffer services in English and/or French as needed.
• Must collaborate with ecosystem partners and avoid duplication of services.
• Must maintain sustainability beyond the project period.
• Ineligible Applicants/Projects:
• For-profit businesses or individuals.
• Projects duplicating existing FedDev-funded activities.
• Applications lacking the required documentation.