Non-repayable small-business grants in Canada are limited and tightly targeted to specific sectors (arts, publishing, music), communities (Indigenous, territorial) or activities (new farmer supports, regional sustainability). Most government support is delivered as loans, tax measures or repayable contributions. Applicants should check eligibility on official sites, tailor proposals to program objectives, and use local business and Indigenous support centres for guidance.

Grants are limited and targeted

Canada does offer non-repayable grants for businesses, but they are relatively scarce and tightly targeted. Most federal and provincial support for small businesses takes the form of loans, tax credits, wage subsidies, or repayable contribution programs rather than unrestricted "free money." When grants exist, they usually target specific sectors, communities or applicant groups (for example: arts and culture, Indigenous entrepreneurs, new farmers, or region-specific economic development).

Common types of support you'll find

  • Arts and culture: Federal programs and arms-length agencies (for example, the Canada Council for the Arts, the Canada Music Fund and the Canada Book Fund) provide project and operating grants to creators and cultural organizations.
  • Indigenous entrepreneurship: Indigenous Services Canada and some provincial agencies run contribution programs and business supports for First Nations, Inuit and Métis entrepreneurs.
  • Sector or region-specific funds: Provincial and territorial governments and regional development agencies operate small grant programs focused on local economic priorities, innovation, or environmental improvements.
  • Agriculture: Provinces commonly have start-up or young-farmer supports. These programs often require proof of farm planning and a business plan, plus minimum ownership or on-farm-work requirements.

What to expect when applying

Eligibility criteria vary widely. Many grants require a clear business plan, a demonstrated market or community need, and some applicant investment (cash or sweat equity). Applications are competitive and assessed on criteria such as feasibility, economic benefit, and capacity to deliver.

You can submit multiple grant applications where programs allow it, and most government programs do not charge an application fee. However, submitting better-targeted, well-written proposals typically improves your odds more than sending many low-quality applications.

How to find the right programs

Start at Canada.ca and your provincial or territorial government website for official program listings. Also contact local economic development offices, community business hubs, and Indigenous business centres - they can point you to smaller regional or sector programs and often offer free application coaching.

Practical tips for stronger applications

  • Read program guidelines closely and confirm eligibility before you spend time on the full application.
  • Tailor your proposal to the fund's stated objectives and use measurable outcomes.
  • Attach a concise business plan and realistic budget.
  • Keep copies of supporting documents and follow submission instructions exactly.

Examples and regional notes

There are longstanding federal cultural funds (music, publishing, arts) and provincial/territorial supports for small businesses and new farmers. Specific program names, eligibility rules and funding levels change frequently, so verify current details on official program pages before applying.
  1. Verify current federal and provincial program names and eligibility details for territorial small-business grants (examples referenced historically for Northwest Territories).
  2. Confirm up-to-date names and eligibility rules for Quebec's young/new farmer support programs.
  3. Confirm whether a 'Toronto Region Sustainability Program' or comparable municipal/regional sustainability grant with the described funding level still exists and its current name/parameters.
  4. Check that the listed federal cultural funds (Canada Music Fund, Canada Book Fund) remain active under those names and note any recent replacements or program changes.

FAQs about Canadian Business Grants

Are small-business grants common in Canada?
No. Pure non-repayable grants are limited and often targeted. Most public support is loans, tax credits, wage or repayable contribution programs.
Who typically qualifies for grants?
Grants tend to target specific groups (artists, Indigenous entrepreneurs, youth/new farmers) or geographic priorities (provincial/territorial initiatives or regional development programs).
Can I apply to multiple grant programs?
Yes, where program rules allow. There is usually no application fee, but focus on quality and alignment with each program's goals.
Where do I find current program details?
Start at Canada.ca and your provincial/territorial government sites. Local economic development offices and Indigenous business centres can also point you to applicable programs and offer application help.
What improves my chances of getting a grant?
Submit a clear, tailored application: a concise business plan, measurable outcomes, a realistic budget and evidence you can deliver. Follow guidelines exactly.