First Peoples Economic Growth Fund: Business Contribution Fund

Overview of the First Peoples Economic Growth Fund: Business Contribution Fund program:

The Business Contribution Fund, administered by the First Peoples Economic Growth Fund (FPEGF), is designed to help Indigenous entrepreneurs in Manitoba launch or grow their businesses by offering direct, non-repayable financial support. The program primarily targets small to medium-sized enterprises that are at least 51% Indigenous-owned. Whether launching a new venture or expanding an existing one, eligible applicants can use this funding to support capital costs, equipment purchases, and other critical components of business development. FPEGF collaborates with Aboriginal Financial Institutions (AFIs) across Canada, meaning that applicants from other provinces may access similar support through their local AFIs. However, this particular stream of the Business Contribution Fund focuses on applicants from Manitoba. Eligible businesses must demonstrate a viable business plan and contribute a minimum equity investment, either in cash or in-kind. The fund can be used to cover a portion of eligible project costs, and preference is given to businesses that are economically sustainable and create employment or economic development benefits for Indigenous communities. The program also emphasizes partnership with lending institutions. To qualify for this fund, businesses must secure a portion of their financing through commercial or Aboriginal lenders, ensuring a shared commitment to the success of the business. Overall, the Business Contribution Fund is a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening the Indigenous business sector by providing critical funding and building entrepreneurial capacity in First Nations communities.

Benefits of the First Peoples Economic Growth Fund: Business Contribution Fund program:

• Up to $99,999 in non-repayable business funding.
• Supports both start-up and expansion activities.
• Helps cover capital purchases, leasehold improvements, equipment, and other eligible business expenses.
• Requires only a partial contribution from applicants, encouraging leveraged financing with other institutions.
• Offers funding aligned with community economic development goals.
• Available year-round, giving flexibility for business planning and readiness.
• Encourages partnerships with Aboriginal Financial Institutions (AFIs) and mainstream lenders.
• Builds capacity in Indigenous entrepreneurship, especially in Manitoba.

Eligibility criteria of the First Peoples Economic Growth Fund: Business Contribution Fund program:

• Business must be at least 51% Indigenous-owned.
• Applicant must be a First Nations person residing in Manitoba.
• Business must be either a start-up or expansion of an existing venture.
• The business must be a for-profit entity.
• Applicant must contribute an equity investment, either in cash or in-kind.
• Must demonstrate commercial viability through a complete business plan.
• Requires a financial contribution from a lending institution (Aboriginal or mainstream).
• Must operate legally and follow applicable laws and regulations.
• Business types must not fall under ineligible activities (e.g., gaming or tobacco sales).