Deadline: October 01, 2025
The Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs 2025 – 2026 (RAISE) is a grant program that supports Indigenous, Black and other racialized entrepreneurs who live and operate their small business in Ontario.
This program focuses on business development training, culturally responsive and tailored business coaching, networking opportunities, and a one-time grant of $10,000.
The RAISE Grant Program is designed to empower Indigenous, Black, and racialized business owners by providing them with the resources and guidance needed to grow and sustain their small businesses. Eligible entrepreneurs must be 18 years or older, legally permitted to operate a business in Canada, and actively running their business in Ontario. Ownership requirements vary depending on the business structure, ensuring participants have significant control and stake in their operations.
Businesses must be registered with the Canada Revenue Agency, employ between 1 to 5 full-time equivalent employees—or up to 10 for Accommodation and Food Services businesses—and demonstrate active market participation with sales or revenue. The annual gross revenue of the business must not exceed $750,000, and applicants must hold commercial general liability insurance of at least $2 million. Participants are expected to engage in a minimum of 10 hours of training, coaching, and networking while developing a Business Action Plan to support growth.
Certain businesses are not eligible, including those that participated in prior RAISE programs, early-stage ideas not yet registered, mature businesses planning for exit, franchises, not-for-profits, government entities, or businesses involved in illegal, harmful, or socially incompatible activities. Specific restrictions also apply to industries such as property rental, cryptocurrency trading, financial services, and businesses that raise investment capital for others. Exemptions exist for traditional Indigenous cultural practices in some sectors, such as tobacco.
The program offers a combination of financial support, mentorship, and networking opportunities to help racialized and Indigenous entrepreneurs strengthen their businesses, expand their networks, and increase their economic impact in Ontario. By participating, entrepreneurs gain access to culturally informed resources and guidance tailored to their unique business needs.
For more information, visit Government of Ontario.
