Deadline Date: October 15, 2026
The Aboriginal Business Investment Fund provides support to Indigenous community-owned businesses in Alberta by funding capital costs for economic development projects that strengthen long-term socio-economic outcomes.
The program focuses on supporting the construction of buildings and infrastructure, purchase of equipment, expansion of business operations, job creation, increased community revenue, sustainable revenue streams, long-term economic sustainability, community-owned business development, and spin-off economic development opportunities. Projects must be shovel-ready within the funding year and demonstrate clear long-term economic benefits for Indigenous communities.
The Aboriginal Business Investment Fund can partially or fully fund capital costs related to Indigenous community-owned economic development projects in Alberta. Funding supports projects involving tangible capital assets such as buildings, heavy equipment, operating equipment, vehicles, information and communication technology systems, and infrastructure improvements. Eligible associated costs may also include professional services, site preparation, project-related infrastructure, and approved construction-related expenses directly connected to the project.
Grant funding ranges from a minimum of $150,000 to a maximum of $750,000. Grants may cover up to 100% of eligible project costs, provided total funding from all government and industry sources does not exceed the total eligible capital expenses. Funding consideration depends on program budget availability, alignment with program priorities, community impact, and the ability of project partners to contribute financially through other funding sources or self-funding arrangements.
The program does not support land acquisition, operating costs, business planning, financing costs, leasing expenses, training, legal fees, or passive income projects. Infrastructure projects already funded through other sources are also considered ineligible. Applicants may include eligible retroactive costs incurred within the same fiscal year if they provide supporting documentation such as invoices, receipts, proof of payment, and additional records confirming the costs are directly related to the project.
Eligible projects must focus on capital investments rather than operational expenses and involve tangible assets with a lifespan exceeding one year. Projects should be ready to begin construction or operations within the fiscal year and demonstrate long-term viability, employment creation, and increased local revenue generation for Indigenous communities.
Eligible applicants include Indigenous communities in Alberta and Indigenous community-owned corporate entities based in Alberta. Indigenous communities must own and control at least 51% of the proposed business or joint venture, while corporate entities must be in good standing. Applicants must also comply with the terms and conditions of any previous Indigenous Relations funding. Individual entrepreneurs and sole proprietors are not eligible for support under the program.
For more information, visit Government of Alberta.
