Access 109+ funding programs for new entrepreneurs. From $5K micro-grants to $1M+ innovation funding. Launch and scale your startup with government support.
Explore funding programs by category to find the perfect match for your new business
Futurpreneur Canada provides financing, mentoring, and support for entrepreneurs aged 18-39. Includes specialized programs for Black and Indigenous youth.
IRAP and SR&ED programs support innovative startups developing new technologies. Non-repayable contributions for qualifying R&D projects.
Canada Digital Adoption Program helps startups implement digital technologies including e-commerce, CRM, and online marketing tools.
Wage subsidies and training grants to help startups hire their first employees. Covers up to 50% of salary costs for youth hires.
Province-specific funding including Ontario's Starter Company Plus, BC's Small Business Grant, and Quebec's entrepreneurship programs.
Black Entrepreneurship Program, Women Entrepreneurship Fund, and Indigenous business support with financing and mentorship.
Follow these steps to secure funding for your new business
Most programs require a viable business plan. Conduct market research, define your target customer, and outline your revenue model before applying.
Use GrantCompass to match your startup profile with available grants. Consider your age, industry, province, and business stage when filtering.
Most programs require formal business registration. Incorporate provincially or federally, obtain a business number, and register for GST/HST if needed.
Create a detailed business plan including financial projections, market analysis, and growth strategy. Strong applications show clear path to profitability.
Apply through official portals, respond promptly to requests for information, and maintain regular contact with program officers. Be patient - approval takes 4-12 weeks.
Common questions about startup grants in Canada
Canada offers 109+ startup grant programs including Futurpreneur (up to $60K), IRAP (up to $1M), Canada Digital Adoption Program ($15K), Black Entrepreneurship Program ($250K), and provincial startup programs. Total funding exceeds $500 million annually.
Eligibility varies but most programs require Canadian business registration, viable business plan, and alignment with program goals. Specific programs target youth (Futurpreneur 18-39), women, Indigenous entrepreneurs, and Black entrepreneurs.
Startup funding ranges from $5,000 micro-grants to $1M+ for innovative technology companies. Most startups access between $15K-$100K through programs like Futurpreneur, provincial grants, and federal innovation programs.
It depends on the program. Non-repayable grants include IRAP and Canada Digital Adoption Program. Some programs like Futurpreneur and BDC offer loans at favorable terms. Tax credits like SR&ED are non-repayable but require eligible R&D expenses.
Yes! Startups can and should apply for multiple programs. Many entrepreneurs stack grants from federal, provincial, and private sources. Just ensure you meet eligibility for each and disclose other funding in applications.
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