Deadline: September 29, 2025
The Canadian Council for Indigenous Business (CCIB) has launched the Young Indigenous Business Grant to support young Indigenous entrepreneurs across Canada.
The grant is focused on supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs under the age of 35 operating their businesses in Canada, ensuring the business is at least 51% owned and controlled by an Indigenous (First Nations, Métis, or Inuit) youth, and requiring the business to be registered in Canada as a for-profit entity.
The Young Indigenous Business Grant, presented by Loblaw Companies Limited with contributions from Apex Distribution, will provide 18 successful applicants with $2,500 each and a one-year CCIB membership to help grow and expand their businesses. The grant is administered through CCIB’s Tools for Indigenous Business (TIB) program. Applications are now open and will close on September 29, 2025, at 5 p.m. EDT, with the 18 recipients being selected through a live draw in mid-October.
Applicants must provide proof of Indigenous ancestry, acceptable documents include an Indian status card, Métis National Council Governing Membership, Inuit Beneficiary card, or valid identification from recognized Indigenous organizations such as the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples (CAP) affiliates, Alberta Métis Settlement Members, or Northwest Territories Land Claim Settlement Beneficiaries. Proof of ownership and control is also required, demonstrating a minimum 51% Indigenous ownership through documents like a Master Business License, Articles of Incorporation, Shareholders Agreement, Shareholders Registry, Corporate Tax Return Schedule 50, or Partnership Agreement, depending on the legal structure of the business.
To complete the application, required information includes the name of the Indigenous owner holding 51% or more ownership, the legal name and establishment date of the business, legal structure, proof of ownership, number of employees, and a business description. Applicants with multiple businesses may only apply with one business, and Certified Indigenous Businesses (CIB) in good standing may upload a copy of their CIB certificate in place of supporting documents where applicable.
For more information, visit CCIB.
