Waubetek Business Financing Program
by Waubetek Business Development Corporation
Also known as: Aboriginal Business Financing Program · ABFP · BFP
Waubetek's Business Financing Program, the federal Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program delivered in North-East Ontario, provides non-repayable contributions up to $99,999 for First Nation, Inuit and non-status individuals, and up to $250,000 for First Nation communities or First Nation-owned businesses. Capital projects need at least 10% equity plus commercial financing; business plans, marketing and mentorship can be covered up to 75% with 25% equity. Continuous intake, start with a Business Development Officer. Métis applicants go to MVDF instead.
Key facts
- Amount
- Up to $99,999
waubetek.com · Last verified Aug 17, 2026 · Auto-checked against official source
- Instrument
- Conditional contribution
- Status
- Open, continuous intake no fixed deadline; approvals on the funder's cycle
- Your share
- 10% matching required
waubetek.com · Last verified Aug 17, 2026 · Auto-checked against official source
- Who qualifies
- Individual entrepreneur, business, first nation community, first nation owned business
- First Nation, Inuit and non-status applicants located in North-East Ontario (on or off reserve)
- Proof of Indigenous heritage required (status card / ITK letter / genealogical documentation for non-status)
- Métis applicants must apply to the Métis Voyageur Development Fund instead
waubetek.com · Last verified Aug 17, 2026 · Auto-checked against official source
Application process
Call first. This funder expects contact with a program officer before you apply.
- Consult with a Waubetek Business Development Officer
- Prepare business plan and financing package
- Submit application; approval and contribution agreement
waubetek.com · Last verified Aug 17, 2026 · Auto-checked against official source
Common questions
How much can I get from Waubetek's BFP?
Up to $99,999 for individuals, or up to $250,000 for First Nation communities and First Nation-owned businesses, calculated as a percentage of total project costs.
Do I need my own money in the project?
Yes, a minimum 10% unencumbered equity for capital projects (plus commercial financing for the balance), or 25% equity for business planning, valuation, marketing and mentorship costs, where BFP may cover up to 75%.
I'm Métis in northeastern Ontario, can I apply?
No. Waubetek directs Métis applicants to the Métis Voyageur Development Fund (MVDF) instead.
Is there a deadline?
No fixed deadline is posted, intake is continuous. Consult a Waubetek Business Development Officer to start.
Apply
Apply on the funder’s site and confirm current terms there: