Business Contribution Fund

Overview of the Business Contribution Fund program:

The Business Contribution Fund (BCF) is one of the key funding programs administered by the First Peoples Economic Growth Fund (FPEGF), designed to assist Manitoba-based Indigenous entrepreneurs and First Nation-owned businesses. This fund offers non-repayable financial support to offset project costs related to launching a new business, acquiring an existing one, or expanding current operations. The primary goal of the BCF is to encourage sustainable economic development, increase Indigenous business ownership, and stimulate job creation within First Nations communities and across the province. Applicants must contribute a portion of the project’s total cost and demonstrate that they have explored other financing options (e.g., commercial loans or equity investment). The fund supports a broad range of costs such as capital assets, equipment, leasehold improvements, working capital, and business plan development. The funding is non-repayable, which makes it particularly attractive for projects that are ready to proceed but need a final injection of capital to move forward. All applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis, considering business viability, economic impact, and community benefit. This program is intended to complement other forms of financing and is often stacked with loans or equity to complete a funding package. Applicants are expected to present a sound business plan and show a strong commitment to long-term business success. Priority is often given to projects that create employment and build capacity within Indigenous communities.

Benefits of the Business Contribution Fund program:

• Contributions may be made towards a start-up, expansion, or acquisition of a viable business.
• If you are requesting a non-repayable contribution towards an acquisition of a business, we will require three years of historical financial statements and an independent Business Valuation which must be done by a Certified Business Valuator. We can provide up to 75% of the Business Valuation cost as a non-repayable contribution.

Eligibility criteria of the Business Contribution Fund program:

• To be eligible for the Business Contribution Fund, applicants must meet the following criteria:
• Location: Business must be located in Manitoba
• Applicant Status:
• Must be First Nation (Status) individuals, or
• A majority-owned First Nation business, or
• A First Nation community-owned business
• Business Stage:
• Startup
• Business acquisition
• Business expansion
• Equity Requirement:
• Applicant must contribute a minimum 10% equity to the total project cost
• Other Financing:
• Must show that additional financing (e.g., commercial loans) has been secured or is being pursued
• Business Plan:
• A complete business plan must be submitted with the application
• Plan must include financial projections and demonstrate business viability
• Eligible Costs:
• Capital assets
• Equipment
• Leasehold improvements
• Business planning and development
• Working capital
• Ineligible Uses:
• Personal expenses
• Operating costs unrelated to growth
• Refinancing existing debt