Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship Program
Financing and Support for Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurs
Are you an Indigenous youth ready to start or grow your business? The Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship (IYE) Program provides financing, business support, and training to help you take your business idea from concept to reality.
Early applications are encouraged due to limited funding availability.
About the Program
The IYE Program is designed to support Indigenous youth entrepreneurs between the ages of 18 and 39 who want to build, expand, or strengthen their business. Whether you are just starting out or looking to grow, we offer the tools, funding, and guidance to help you succeed.
Through this program, you will have access to:
- Financing of up to $25,000
- Business planning guidance and mentorship
- Workshops and training opportunities
- Networking and peer connections
Our goal is to help young Indigenous entrepreneurs overcome barriers, access funding, and build successful businesses that contribute to their communities and futures.
Eligibility
To qualify for the IYE Program, applicants must:
- be an Indigenous youth between the ages of 18 and 39
- own at least 51% of the business
- operate a business located in NADF's service area
What We Offer
Financing
The IYE Program is designed for Indigenous youth-led businesses that need smaller loans and may not have access to traditional financing. Whether your business is full-time, part-time, or home-based, we can help.
- Up to $25,000 in start-up or expansion financing
- Interest rate: 8.5%
- 5% equity requirement
- Repayment term: up to 5 years
Sample Financing Package:
Equity (5%) $ 1,250
Grant (45%) $11,250
Loan (50%) $12,500
Total $25,000
Business Planning Guidance & Support
Our team provides one-on-one guidance to help you:
- Develop a clear business plan
- Set strategies and objectives
- Create financial projections
- Strengthen your business readiness
Workshops & Training
Workshops are designed specifically for Indigenous youth entrepreneurs who want to take the next step in their business journey. These sessions will help you:
- Build essential business skills
- Work on strategies to grow your business
- Connect with other Indigenous entrepreneurs
Sign up for our e-newsletter to receive workshop announcements in your inbox.
Why Apply?
The Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship Program is more than financing; it is a pathway to success. Participants gain:
- Access to funding designed for youth entrepreneurs
- Support to overcome barriers and build credit
- Connections to resources, training, and networks
- Confidence to grow and lead their businesses
Questions? Contact us.