Success Stories
Our clients motivate and inspire us. Read our client stories to see how with our support, businesses like yours and entrepreneurs like you are succeeding.
The Haven Hostel - Thunder Bay
Business Plan Guidance, Financing – Grant & Loan
“The people at NADF were mentors and huge supporters. Even before I applied for financing, they helped me develop my business plan and gave me marketing pointers. Then when the right building became available for the hostel, I had an Aboriginal Business Financing Program grant in place and various loans from different programs for the mortgage and renovations. Because of my work with NADF, I was also able to secure financing for other renovations with another financial institution, after being turned down over and over again. If it weren’t for NADF, I wouldn’t be doing what I’m doing right now. They’re the ones that pulled me through.”
~Holly Watson, co-owner of The Haven Hostel, Thunder Bay
Anishinabek Dental Hygiene Clinic – Fort William First Nation
Financing - Grant & Loan
“When I was looking for different funding avenues, I met with NADF and presented my business plan. Initially, I wanted to apply for a lot more, but NADF helped me walk through how this was going to look, payment-wise. My funding was a loan and an Aboriginal Business Financing Program grant, which was great. I bought all the equipment that I needed to start up and run my dental hygiene practice. It made a huge difference. NADF was the right place to go. They hold the same values I do in supporting First Nations communities and First Nations peoples.”
~Desiree Morriseau-Shields, Owner, Anishinabek Dental Hygiene Clinic
Sunny Bunny’s - Longlac
Business Incubator Program
“NADF was a big help because they came to my community and talked about business planning. I learned how to investigate food costs and prepare my business plan for my chip stand and chip truck. I didn’t know a lot about business but the information was geared to my level, and now I feel a bit more relaxed and I’m motivated. I know I can do what I set out to do.”
~April Luby, owner of Sunny Bunny’s, Longlac and Long Lake #58 First Nation