The Funding Guide A FUNDING RESOURCE FOR BUSINESSES & NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS. Municipality of East Ferris Municipalité East Ferris

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1 The Funding Guide A FUNDING RESOURCE FOR BUSINESSES & NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS Municipality of East Ferris Municipalité East Ferris

2 Table of Contents About This Guide 1 Top 10 Tips When Preparing Funding Applications 1 Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) Northern Business Opportunity Program 2 Small Business Start-up Projects 2 Business Expansion Projects 3 New Investment Projects 3 Film and Television Industry Projects 3 Northern Ontario Internship Program 4 Futurpreneur Start-up Program 4 Newcomer Program 5 Expansion Program 5 The Prince s Operation Entrepreneur Program 6 NECO Community Futures Business Financing Program 6 Local Initiatives Contribution Fund 7 FedNor Community Economic Development 7 Business Growth and Competitiveness 8 Innovation 9 FedNor Youth Internship Program 10 Community Investment Initiative for Northern Ontario 10 National Research Council Research and Technology Development Activities 11 Youth Employment Strategy Program 11 Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sports Tourism Development Fund 12 Summer Experience Program 12

3 Ontario Arts Council Granting Programs and Awards 13 Canada Council for the Arts 14 Industry Canada Canada Small Business Financing Program (CSBF) 14 Aboriginal Affairs and Economic Development Aboriginal Business Canada 15 Métis Voyageur Development Fund 16 Waubetek Business Development Corporation Aboriginal Student Business Loans 16 Term Loans Enhanced Access to Capital 17 Bridge Financing 17 Term Loans Community Futures 18 Blue Sky Net BEAM Funding 18 The Business Centre Nipissing Parry Sound 19 Canada Business 19 The Labour Market Group 20

4 About This Guide The programs highlighted in this guide provide a general overview about the types of funding available. Specific eligibility details, program deadlines, and criteria can be found on the websites listed. The guide provides basic information about the type of programs available but should not be relied upon for a complete listing of every program. Some of the programs are national in reach while others are specific to businesses and organizations in the Nipissing and Parry Sound Districts, Please review the program criteria carefully and speak to the funding representative before completing an application. Top 10 Tips For Preparing Funding Applications Whether you own a small business or operate a non-profit organization, you are likely to come across an opportunity to apply for funding. While there are many programs available, finding one to fit can be a challenge. To be successful in accessing funding you must come up with creative, unique concepts that you can build around the funding application. To help you navigate, the following tips may prove useful. 1. Identify a variety of programs that your organization is eligible for. 2. Read through the guidelines and pay careful attention to application deadlines, eligible costs, program start/end dates and percentage of funding available (ie.50%, 90%, 100% of eligible costs.) These factors will contribute to how you develop your project scope. 3. Determine a project or activity that you can conduct with the available resources you have on hand. Ensure that your project will complement both the funding eligibility and your organizational goals. Look for ways you can showcase other initiatives you have on the go to get added exposure and value for the entire organization. 4. Contact the funding representative and ask them if they can meet with you to discuss your propsed idea. 5. Look into how the money is disbursed to ensure that you have the financial resources to carry the expenses if the funding is reimbursed after proof of purchase. There are instances when funders are willing to offer advances so be sure to look into this option should you need it. 6. When writing funding applications pay careful attention to the questions being asked and how your answers relate to the priorities of the funding agency. For instance, if the purpose of the fund is to foster community development, ensure that your answers demonstrate how your program will be able to accomplish this. 7. Do not assume that the funders know anything about your organization when preparing your application. While you may feel comfortable with the knowledge of your local funding representative has about your group and the project, this does not mean that the decision makers will. Keep in mind that often a committee of people makes the funding decisions. 8. Communicate your message in each response clearly and consistently. Always provide reasons and backup for each of your points. 9. There are times when having multiple funders involved in your project can be beneficial. For instance, if you are proposing a project to a funder at the federal government and you have provincial support committed to the project, be sure to leverage this relationship in your application. 10. If approved, ensure you carry out the deliverables indicated in your proposal. If you need to make a change to your project, communicate with your funding representative before doing so. Funding agencies have dedicated representatives who are committed to helping applicants prepare applications. Talk to these people in advance to help you prepare a successful proposal. 1

5 PROGRAMS & SERVICES Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) Northern Business Opportunity Program: Small Business Start-up Projects Summary: The Northern Business Opportunity Program supports the vision of the Growth Plan for Northern Ontario by encouraging business productivity and expansion, and global investment in northern communities. Who is eligible: New businesses in Northern Ontario that intend to commence operations in the following sectors identified and further described in the Growth Plan: advanced manufacturing; agriculture, aquaculture and food processing; arts, culture and creative industries; digital economy; forestry and value-added forestry-related industries; health sciences; minerals sector and mining supply and services; renewable energy and services; tourism; transportation, aviation and aerospace; and water technologies and services. What is eligible: Eligible project costs related to the start-up of a business that creates jobs in Northern Ontario include, but are not limited to: leasehold improvements; new or used equipment; training costs incurred with third parties; marketing costs; information and communications technology investments including, but not limited to, software. Funding: NOHFC assistance will be in the form of a conditional contribution and will generally not exceed 50% of eligible project costs up to a maximum of $200,000. Northern Business Opportunity Program: Business Expansion Projects Summary: The Northern Business Opportunity Program supports the vision of the Growth Plan for Northern Ontario by encouraging business productivity and expansion, and global investment in northern communities. Who is eligible: Existing businesses in Ontario that intend to expand and/or retain their operations within Northern Ontario to improve competitiveness, grow revenues and create jobs in the following sectors identified and further described in the Growth Plan: advanced manufacturing; agriculture, aquaculture, and food processing; arts, culture and creative industries; digital economy; forestry and value-added forestry-related industries; health sciences; minerals sector and mining supply and services; renewable energy and services; tourism; transportation, aviation and aerospace; water technologies and services. What is eligible: Eligible project costs include but are not limited to: capital construction; leasehold improvements; new or used equipment; training costs incurred with third parties; land servicing costs; information and communications technology investments including, but not limited to, software. Funding: NOHFC assistance will generally not exceed 50% of eligible project costs up to a maximum of $1 million per project. In exceptional circumstances, NOHFC may consider exceeding the $1 million maximum on a case-by-case basis. Up to 30% of the NOHFC funding may be in the form of a conditional grant with the remainder in the form of a repayable loan. Where a conditional grant is not provided the NOHFC may consider incentive term loans on a case-by-case basis. 2

6 Northern Business Opportunity Program: New Investment Projects Summary: The Northern Business Opportunity Program supports the vision of the Growth Plan for Northern Ontario by encouraging business productivity and expansion, and global investment in northern communities. Who is eligible: : Competitive businesses that currently do not have a presence in Ontario that will expand operations to Northern Ontario and create jobs. What is eligible: Preference is given to those projects that demonstrate the following: creation of new jobs; ability to become a new anchor for investments and/or support regional cluster development; alignment with the priority identified in the Growth Plan. Funding: NOHFC will provide assistance in the form of a conditional grant or a combination of a conditional grant and term loan/incentive term loan on a case-by-case basis. Northern Business Opportunity Program: Film and Television Summary: The Northern Business Opportunity Program supports the vision of the Growth Plan for Northern Ontario by encouraging business productivity, expansion, and global investment in northern communities. Who is eligible: Applicants must be the owner or co-owner of the project, control copyright and receive, subject to commitments to third-party investors, talent and deferring parties, a share of revenues from sales of the project. The following is a list of eligible projects: theatrical feature films; made-for-television movies; and television drama series. What is eligible: Eligible costs that are eligible for NOHFC funding include all costs of the production that are spent in Northern Ontario, including labour costs for Northern Ontario trainees under the Trainee Provision. Eligible costs include production goods and services and post-production costs. Funding: NOHFC provides assistance in the form of a conditional grant up to 50% of eligible costs to a maximum of $500,000. NOHFC funding is based on the project s level of spending in Northern Ontario and on employment and training opportunities for Northern Ontario residents. 3

7 Northern Ontario Internship Program Summary: The intent of the Northern Ontario Internship Program is to strengthen Northern Ontario s competitive advantage and build economic development capacity by attracting and retaining graduates in the North. The program provides recent graduates who are interested in launching and building their careers in Northern Ontario access to internships. Candidate Criteria: University and college graduates who have graduated within the last three years from an accredited college or university. Candidates must be graduates of post-secondary degree or diploma programs. The position must provide the intern with first time employment in their field of study. Candidates are only eligible to participate in the internship program one time. Candidates must be legally entitled to work in Canada. Who is eligible: Private sector, public sector, and not-for-profit organizations located in Northern Ontario that are interested in providing training and work experience to recent graduates. The organization must have been in operation for at least one year with a minimum of one full-time employee and operate in one of the sectors identified in the Growth Plan. Funding: Conditional contribution of up to 90% of a recent graduate s salary to a maximum contribution of $31,500 annually (not-for-profit or public sector organizations). Conditional contribution of up to 50% of a recent graduate s salary to a maximum contribution of $31,500 annually (private sector organizations) Futurpreneur Start-up Program Summary: Futurpreneur understands young and emerging entrepreneurs, and we have been working together to help increase their chances of success since Our innovative and flexible services are designed to address the common challenges entrepreneurs may face in the early stages, and we provide the vital support and guidance needed for long-term success. This program offers start-up resources, financing, mentoring and expertise and resources available to clients. Who is eligible: Applicants must be between years of age with a new business or in operation for less than one year. You must also be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada to qualify for the loan. Applicants must be prepared to work with a mentor for 2 years and have a viable business plan (Futurpreneur will work with you to develop a business plan.) Funding: The maximum amount of financing available through Futurpreneur is $15,000; however applicants could apply for up to $45,000 through a partnership with Business Development Bank of Canada. This loan is over a five-year term, with CIBC s interest rate being the basic prime rate plus 3% for Futurpreneur and BDC s interest rate being BDC Basic floating rate plus 5%. Applicants must have a minimum of 10% investment into the project. 4

8 Newcomer Program Summary: Our innovative and flexible services are designed to address the common challenges entrepreneurs may face in the early stages, and we provide the vital support and guidance needed for long-term success which includes helping you better understand Canadian business customs and overcoming language and cultural challenges. Who is eligible: Applicants must be between years of age and has lived in Canada for 60 months or less. You must also be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada to qualify for the loan. Applicants also can t be full time students. Applicants must be prepared to work with a mentor for 2 years and have a viable business plan (Futurpreneur will work with you to develop a business plan.) Funding: Futurpreneur has teamed up with the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) to provide newcomers who have credit history with up to $45,000 in start-up financing. Newcomers who do not have any Canadian credit history may be eligible for up to $15,000 from Futurpreneur and the BDC. This loan is over a five-year term, with CIBC s interest rate being the basic prime rate plus 3% for Futurpreneur and BDC s interest rate being BDC Basic floating rate plus 5%. Applicants must have a minimum of 10% investment into the project. Expansion Program Summary: You received CYBF or Futurpreneur support in the early stages of your business and now you are ready for some additional support to help grow your business. Futurpreneur s Expansion Program supports entrepreneurs who meet the criteria. Who is eligible: Applicants must be between years old and a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada. They must have received the initial CYBF or Futurpreneur loan 36 to 60 months ago (through the CYBF or Futurpreneur Start-up, Newcomer or Spin Master Innovation Fund Programs) and the business has been operating continuously since then. Entrepreneurs who are still repaying their initial loan or who have completed repayment on that loan are eligible. Applicants must be employed full-time in the business they are applying for additional funding for. Repayments of the initial CYBF or Futurpreneur loan are up-to-date and loan proceeds may NOT be used for refinancing existing debt. Funding: Applicants are able to receive up to $10,000 under our standard program that is amortization over 51 months with an interest rate of CIBC s prime rate plus 3%. BDC can double the Futurpreneur approved Expansion Program loan, not exceeding $30,000 when added to the amount received by BDC through the Startup or Newcomer Programs. Applicants must show a minimum investment of 10% of total value of the project. 5

9 The Prince s Operation Entrepreneur Program Summary: The Prince s Operation Entrepreneur is a national program for transitioning Canadian Forces members interested in realizing their dreams of entrepreneurship. This uniquely Canadian program offers the men and women who have bravely served our country the education, financing and mentoring needed to start and sustain their own successful business. Who is eligible: Applicants are either Canadian Citizens or a permanent resident of Canada and not a full time student. They are medically released/releasing or within 12 months of voluntary release or up to 24 months postvoluntary release. Have a business idea that creates full-time sustainable employment for the applicant; and agrees to work with a mentor. Funding: The maximum amount of financing available through Futurpreneur is $15,000; however applicants could apply for up to $45,000 through a partnership with Business Development Bank of Canada. This loan is over a five-year term, with CIBC s interest rate being the basic prime rate plus 3% for Futurpreneur and BDC s interest rate being BDC Basic floating rate plus 5%. Applicants must have a minimum of 10% investment into the project. NECO Community Futures Business Financing Program Summary: To support micro & small business development through financial investment services and advisory/ consulting services. Who is eligible: To apply for a loan, you must be ineligible for conventional bank financing and be planning to locate, start or expand business operations in the areas serviced by NECO. Applicants must show contributions to the economic growth in the NECO area. This would include but would not be limited to job creation and/or job maintenance. Eligible Costs: Loan applications will be considered for businesses that are in start-up stages or expansion stages. Applicants must have a minimum of 10% equity contributions (based on amount of funding.) Funding: No grants or forgivable loans available. The maximum loan amount is $150,000 per business for startup, expansion or stabilization. Loans up to $500,000 will be considered on an exceptional and limited basis. 6

10 Local Initiatives Contribution Fund Who is eligible: First Nation, municipalities or other non-profit community organizations operating within the boundaries of NECO CFDC stretching from Novar in the South, Tilden Lake in the North, Mattawa in the East and Loring/Port Loring in the West. Eligible Costs: Eligible projects may include the following: pre-feasibility studies, capital purchase smallscale capital projects, community ICT strategies/projects, Projects to promote innovation and new technology, e-commerce promotion, development of on-line business services, feasibility /business plan, research projects, Environmental assessment reports, leadership/capacity building (seminars/workshops) Community tourism events, project implementation, marketing/promotional activities and Other community-based economic development projects. FedNor Community Economic Development Summary: Recognizing the unique challenges facing Northern Ontario communities, many of which are small, rural and remote, FedNor will target its support to help them create the conditions necessary for economic growth and development. Eligible activities are related to community economic development, including those that leverage key economic sectors, such as mining and forest industries, tourism, agri-food, information and communications technology, renewable energy and manufacturing. Who is eligible: Not-for-profit organizations in Northern Ontario, such as community economic development, Aboriginal and Francophone organizations, industry and business associations, networks, or alliances. Also municipalities that include; municipal organizations; and First Nations in Northern Ontario. Eligible Costs: Eligible costs include all expenses directly related to the project and deemed reasonable and necessary for its execution. Non-capital costs may include: fees for professional and technical services, including project implementation, engineering services; costs related to community engagement and planning, such as facilitation, rental of facility; costs related to producing and disseminating results of studies/plans; marketing costs, including design, promotional materials, advertising, product demonstrations and participation at trade shows; and travel expenses and labor costs. Capital costs may include: servicing of industrial lands; waterfront development; leasehold improvements; and machinery, equipment and technology. Funding: Assistance available from FedNor includes repayable and non-repayable contributions. Contributions will normally be repayable where proposed projects generate profits for the eligible applicant. Generally, FedNor will support up to 33% of eligible capital and up to 50% of eligible non-capital costs. Eligible applicants are expected to contribute a minimum of 10% of project costs. 7

11 Business Growth and Competitiveness Summary: This program is committed to fostering economic growth and increased competitiveness of Northern Ontario s businesses by working with community and industry stakeholders to invest in projects that improve productivity, reach new markets, facilitate access to capital, foster investment, encourage entrepreneurship and cultivate industry collaboration. Who is eligible: Not-for-profit organizations in Northern Ontario, such as community economic development, Aboriginal and Francophone organizations, industry and business associations, networks, or alliances. Also municipalities which include; municipal organizations; and First Nations in Northern Ontario. As well as small/ medium enterprises with fewer than 500 employees within Northern Ontario who are seeking youth internships. Eligible costs: Eligible costs include all incremental expenses directly related to the project and deemed reasonable and necessary for its execution. Non-capital costs may include: fees for professional and technical services, including market, trade and export expertise; costs related to business management training; costs related to producing and disseminating results of studies/plans; marketing costs, including design, promotional materials, advertising, product demonstrations and participation at trade shows; as well as travel expenses and labor costs. Capital costs may include: servicing of industrial lands; leasehold improvements; and machinery, equipment and technology. Funding: Assistance available from FedNor includes repayable and non-repayable contributions. Contributions will normally be repayable where proposed projects generate profits for the eligible applicant. Generally, FedNor will support up to 33 percent of eligible capital and up to 50 percent of eligible non-capital costs. Eligible applicants are expected to contribute a minimum of 10 percent of project costs. 8

12 Innovation Summary: This program is committed to supporting Northern Ontario s economy by encouraging communities and businesses to become more innovative, productive and competitive through the adoption, adaptation and commercialization of new technologies, fostering technology linkages between business and institutions, advancing technological research and development, and promoting community innovation initiatives. Who is eligible: Not-for-profit organizations in Northern Ontario, such as community economic development, Aboriginal and Francophone organizations, industry and business associations, networks, post-secondary institutions, research centers or alliances. Also municipalities; municipal organizations; and First Nations in Northern Ontario. As well as small/medium enterprises with fewer than 500 employees in Northern Ontario, including corporations, partnerships, cooperatives, proprietorships, trusts or consortia. Eligible costs: Eligible costs include all expenses directly related to the project and deemed reasonable and necessary for its execution. Non-capital costs may include: fees for professional and technical services, including technology implementation, engineering services; costs related to training on new technology; costs related to securing intellectual property, licensing and patent registration; costs related to producing and disseminating results of study/plans; marketing costs, including design, promotional materials, advertising, product demonstrations and participation at trade shows; and travel expenses and labor costs. Capital costs may include: applied research and development needs, such as a laboratory modification; servicing of industrial lands; leasehold improvements; and machinery, equipment and technology. Funding: Assistance available for small/medium enterprises is repayable. Assistance available for not-for-profits includes repayable and non-repayable contributions. Contributions will normally be repayable where proposed projects generate profits for the eligible applicant. Generally, FedNor will support up to 33 percent of eligible capital costs and up to 50 percent of eligible non-capital costs up to a maximum contribution of $500,000. Eligible applicants are expected to contribute a minimum of 10 percent of project costs. 9

13 FedNor Youth Internship Program Summary: This program is designed to encourage employers to provide young northerners with educationrelated job experience, ideally leading to a permanent full-time employment within Northern Ontario. Eligible Applicants: Young people being considered for a youth internship must: be unemployed or underemployed youth (persons aged 30 and under); have graduated within the last three years with a degree, diploma or certificate from a recognized post-secondary institution; be legally entitled to work in Canada; have not previously participated as a youth intern in FedNor s Northern Ontario Development Program or in any other federal or provincial internship program with pay for a period of six months or more; and not be related to the directors, officers or managers of the organization. Funding: Not-for-profit organizations: FedNor will contribute up to 90 percent ($31,500 per year) for the eligible costs of salary and employee benefit expenses in a full-time position for the internship period. Small/medium enterprises: FedNor will contribute up to 50 percent ($31,500) for the eligible costs of salary, employee benefit expenses, and professional and business skills development and associated travel costs for a period of 12 months in a full-time position. Community Investment Initiative for Northern Ontario Summary: This program enables communities and First Nations to increase the number of community and/or regional economic development initiatives implemented leading to increased business investment; job creation; and increased regional collaboration and partnerships among communities. Eligible Applicants: Rural municipalities and first nation communities in Northern Ontario. Community Futures Development Corporations and Tribal councils can apply on behalf of several communities. Eligible Costs: Salary and benefits and travel. Applicants are expected to pay administrative costs. Funding: FedNor will contribute up to 90% of eligible costs to a maximum of $100,000 annually for 3 years. It may be increased to $170,000 depending on number or partners and geographic coverage. 10

14 National Research Council Research and Technology Development Activities Summary: This program provides financial support to qualified small and medium-sized enterprises in Canada to help them undertake technology innovation. Who is eligible: To be eligible under this program you must be a be a small and medium-sized enterprise in Canada, incorporated and profit-oriented; have 500 or fewer full-time equivalent employees; and have the objective to grow and generate profits through development and commercialization of innovative, technologydriven new or improved products, services, or processes in Canada. The potential client must contact one of our industrial technology advisors who will assist them with their projects. Eligible Costs: : In order to be considered for possible financial support, both the firm and the project are assessed by IRAP. Specifically, the due diligence process assesses: the business and management capabilities of the firm and the company s potential to achieve the expected results and outcomes associated with the proposed project; the financial capabilities of the firm and its plan to commercialize the developed technologies; and the technical aspects of the project and its potential impact on the firm. Youth Employment Strategy Program Summary: This program delivered under the Youth Employment Strategy which provides small and medium-sized enterprises with financial assistance to hire highly skilled post-secondary graduates. Small and medium-sized enterprises benefit from the knowledge of freshly minted minds while graduates gain valuable work experience that will open doors to the future. Who is eligible: Organization: To be eligible for financial assistance under the Youth Employment Program, your small and medium-sized enterprise must: be incorporated and for-profit; have 500 or less full-time equivalents; and be ready to enhance their innovation capacity, and willing to establish a trusting relationship with IRAP. Graduates must: be Canadian citizens, permanent residents or persons who have been granted refugee status in Canada; be between 15 and 30 years old; have graduated from a post-secondary institution; not be in receipt of Employment Insurance benefits; be legally entitled to work according to relevant provincial legislation and regulations; and be a first-time youth participant in a placement of the Career Focus Program of the Youth Employment Strategy. Eligible Costs: This Program provides financial assistance to innovative small and medium-sized enterprises in Canada to hire post-secondary science, engineering, technology, business and liberal arts graduates. Funding: The Program will cost-share a portion of the salary costs of a post-secondary graduate, but the small and medium-sized enterprise is responsible for other expenses such as fringe benefits and overhead costs. 11

15 Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sports Tourism Development Fund Summary: The Tourism Development Fund supports projects that encourage tourism investment, tourism product development and industry capacity building. Eligible Applicants: Applicants must be either federally or provincially incorporated; or First Nations in the province of Ontario; or established by or under legislation. This can include but not limited to Tourism associations, economic development corporations, municipalities, tourism businesses and organizations interested in undertaking tourism-related initiatives that support industry development and increased visitation. Eligible Costs: Including consulting services, research, seminars, training, workshops, conference speakers or tourism related programs, regional or sector strategic tourism planning, feasibility assessments for tourism projects, organizational development, project management, and business plan support. Summer Experience Program Summary: The Summer Experience Program provides not-for-profit organizations, municipalities and Aboriginal/ First Nations communities with funding to create meaningful summer employment opportunities for students. Who is eligible: Organizations: Eligible applicants for Summer Experience Program funding include: not-for-profit organizations, municipalities, Aboriginal organizations and First Nations. Eligible organizations must be legally incorporated or be band councils established under the Indian Act, Canada. Students: All students must be currently enrolled in a secondary, or post-secondary institution or within six months of graduation and have reached the age of 15 and not yet reached the age of 25 upon commencement of employment or up to 29 years for persons with a disability. Eligible Costs: Wages, 4% vacation pay and other benefits are covered under this program, overtime however is not. Funding: Organizations can pay the employee(s) more than minimum wage at their own expense, provided the wage rate is relative to other summer contract positions, and follows human resource policies or collective agreements in place within the organization. Summer Experience Program funding will be calculated using a rate of $10.25 per hour. 12

16 Ontario Arts Council Granting Programs and Awards Project Grants Summary: Project grants provide funding for an artist or group to do an art project or arts activity. OAC offers project grants in different arts areas, like theatre or music, and arts activities, like professional development. We also have grants for Aboriginal artists, francophone artists, artists of color and artists in Ontario regions north of Parry Sound. Information given for individual artists also applies to organizations seeking project funding. Organizations applying for project grants must describe themselves, their project, their budget and plans, and submit support material. Who is eligible: An artist, a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, and/or living in Ontario a minimum of 8 months of the year. Operating Grants Summary: Operating grants provide ongoing assistance to arts organizations towards their operating expenses and are awarded on an annual or multi-year basis. Operating grants cannot be used to fund capital projects, programs that are part of an accredited college or university, fundraising, or events or projects that have already taken place. Who is eligible: Organizations requesting operating grants must: be actively producing or helping to bring the work of professional Ontario artists to communities; be incorporated as not-for-profit and have been programming for at least two years 13

17 Canada Council for the Arts Summary: The Canada Council provides grants and services to professional Canadian artists and arts organizations in: dance, inter-arts, media arts, music, theatre, visual arts, writing and publishing. Who is eligible: Organizations: An applicant organization must be staffed by arts professionals who create artistic works, or present them to the Canadian public. Each program has its own eligibility criteria, but examples of eligible organizations are: theatre companies, art museums, public galleries, artist-run centers, dance companies, orchestras and film co-operatives. Professional publishing houses are also eligible for grant support, through the Writing and Publishing Section. Grants offered include: Operating funds, organizational development assistance, project assistance, and presenting and dissemination assistance. Artists: Generally you must be a professional artist and a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada to apply. A professional artist is someone who; has specialized training in the field (not necessarily in academic institutions), is recognized as such by peers (artists working in the same artistic tradition), and has a history of public presentation or publication. Many grant programs are for individual artists. The most common types of grants for individuals are: creation/ production, professional development, residency, and travel. Industry Canada Canada Small Business Financing Program (CSBF) Summary: Industry Canada partnered up with financial institution to provide this unique type of funding for small businesses. Who is eligible: Most existing for-profit small and medium size businesses or start-ups in Canada with gross revenues or projected revenues of $5 million or less are eligible to apply for loans under this program. Such businesses can be corporations, sole proprietors, partnerships or cooperatives. Farming businesses, not-forprofit organizations, or charitable and religious organizations are not eligible under this program. Eligible costs: Purchasing or improving land and buildings used for commercial purposes; purchasing new or existing renovations to premises occupied by the business as a tenant; purchasing or improving new or used equipment (including commercial vehicles) Funding available: The maximum loan amount a borrower can access under this program is $500,000. $350,000 can be used to finance the purchase or improvement of equipment and the purchase of leasehold improvements. 90% of the assets acquisition and/or improvement can be financed from an institution. 14

18 Aboriginal Affairs and Economic Development Aboriginal Business Canada Summary: Aboriginal Business Canada is a program of Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC). The aim of the program it to work with clients and partners, provide a range of services and support that helps to promote the growth of a strong Aboriginal business sector in Canada. Who is eligible: Clients must be individuals of Canadian Aboriginal heritage; Status or Non-status Indian (on or off-reserve), Métis or Inuit; or a majority-owned Aboriginal business, financial organization, or development corporation. To be eligible for support, clients should also be involved full-time with the proposed business in a management capacity and must be able to provide some level of cash equity to support the project. Eligible costs: Many Aboriginal entrepreneurs and communities can qualify for business development support. Depending on the nature of your project, you may be able to obtain funding to assist with a wide range of activities, including: business planning, establishment (capital) costs, business acquisitions, business expansions, marketing initiatives that are local, domestic, or export oriented, new product or process development, adding technology to improve operations and competitiveness, operating costs in association with capital costs, financial services, business support, business-related training, and mentoring services. Funding available: Individual Aboriginal entrepreneurs may receive up to $99,999 in funding assistance. For community-owned businesses, this assistance can be up to $1 million. The level of support for your business project will depend on a number of factors that you will need to discuss with your Aboriginal Business Canada Development Officer. The minimum level of equity for each project depends on the following factors: For youth applicants (over 18 and under 36), the minimum equity requirement is 10 per cent of eligible capital costs. For applicants who are 36 years of age or older, the minimum equity requirement is 15 per cent of eligible capital costs. For applicants applying as a legal entity, the minimum equity requirement is 15 per cent of eligible capital costs. 15

19 Métis Voyageur Development Fund Summary: The MVDF is an independent Métis owned and controlled corporation founded in 2011, that provides funding and support for resource or related sector Métis businesses. Our mandate and structure permits us to provide more financing, at lower interest rates and with fewer restrictions than commercial lenders such as banks and credit unions. We also offer on-going support for developing business plans and accessing professional assistance and on-going training and skills. Who is eligible: Businesses where at least one of the owners self-identifies as Métis and holds 50% or more of the business can access support through the MVDF. We can only finance businesses engaged in or related to the resources sector, start-ups and expansions. Funding available: The maximum amount of financing available through MVDF is $500,000. MVDF offers reduced equity requirements, limited or no collateral, low interest rates and flexible payment schedules. In addition to financing your business, MVDF can also provide non-repayable contributions towards the development of a business plan and for aftercare. Waubetek Business Development Corporation Summary: The Waubetek Business Development Corporation is an Aboriginal-owned and controlled organization that delivers business financing and economic development services to First Nations and Aboriginal entrepreneurs in North-Eastern Ontario. Our goal is to assist in strengthening the economies of the local First Nations, as well as this whole region of Ontario, through business and community development. Aboriginal Student Business Loans Summary: The Aboriginal Student Business Loans (ASBL) Program provides loan financing of up to $1,500 for new or existing student businesses. This program is generally for those students who wish to create their own summer business or become self-employed. Who is eligible: These student business loans are currently available to Aboriginal youth 15 to 25 years of age who is a member of one of the First Nations within Waubetek s service area. All applicants must be returning to school as a full-time student in the fall of the same year. Funding available: The maximum loan available per business is $1,500 with an interest rate of 2%-5% above the prime-lending rate. All applicants are required to contribute 10% towards the total cost of their project up front as a cash equity investment. Applicants under 19 years of age will require a guarantor on each loan. 16

20 Term Loans- Enhanced Access to Capital Summary: Through the federal government s access to capital initiative, Waubetek delivers the Enhanced Access Program that provides commercial loans to Aboriginal people who are in an area not currently served by Aboriginal Capital Corporations or Aboriginal Community Futures Development Corporations. Who is eligible: The Enhanced Access to Capital Loan Program is eligible to Aboriginal Businesses located in the region of northeastern Ontario bounded by Sault Ste. Marie East to Mattawa, and Temagami, south to Georgina Island (excluding Sagamok and First Nations on Manitoulin Island). For businesses located on First Nations, Waubetek requires a Band Council Resolution providing authority to Waubetek to conduct business in that community; The applicant must contribute a minimum of 10% cash equity to the eligible project costs; and The business must be commercially viable. Waubetek may waive the 10% client equity contribution for Aboriginal businesses that have successfully operated for more than 3 years. Funding available: The maximum loan amount is $ 500,000 per business for businesses located in Waubetek s service area north of Muskoka, and $250,000 for Waubetek s service area between Barrie and Muskoka. Flexible repayment terms are available through Waubetek. Interest rates are compounded semi-annually at the Prime rate plus 2% to 5%; depending on your risk assessment. Bridge Financing Summary: Waubetek provides loans to Aboriginal businesses to bridge costs associated with the establishment or expansion of a business as a temporary advance of money until other sources of confirmed funds are received. In other words, a bridge financing loan is used to cover costs that are being financed by other sources where the funds will not be immediately received or where the client must cover the cost first and then be reimbursed. This financing allows the project to proceed immediately. Who is eligible: Applicants must meet the same eligibility requirements as for Waubetek s commercial loan fund or the Enhanced Access to Capital Fund. The approved financing that is to be provided from other sources, to which the bridge-financing loan is being applied, must be confirmed. Funding available: The maximum loan amount is $150,000 per business (inclusive of both the commercial loan and bridge financing loan). Applicant s equity requirement is 10%. Daily interest will be calculated at the annualized rate of Prime rate plus 2% to 5% based on risk. 17

21 Term Loans Community Futures Summary: Waubetek has an Investment Fund, which is used to provide commercial loans to Aboriginal businesses to finance costs associated with either the establishment or expansion of a business. Who is eligible: Access to our commercial loan services of up to $500,000 to First Nations their registered First Nation community members (including micro-loans not normally provided my conventional lenders) /First Nation who have provided the annual contribution; The project must be commercially viable. Funding available: The maximum loan amount is $500,000 per business. Applicants must contribute a minimum of 10% cash equity to the eligible project costs. However, Waubetek may waive the 10% client equity contribution for Aboriginal businesses that have successfully operated for more than 3 years. Interest rates are compounded semi-annually at the Prime rate plus 2% to 5%; depending on your risk assessment. Blue Sky Net BEAM Program Summary: The BEAM program is a FedNor funded initiative which assists businesses develop their capacity for E-business and in effect their ability to compete and thrive in the digital age. The BEAM process helps small businesses define objectives to ensure that the right technology is implemented to achieve the desired outcomes. Eligible costs: Funding is available for the cost of creating a web presence for your business including, but not limited to, website development, website design, and Search Engine Optimization (SEO) - Maximum of $2,000. Funding can also be used to develop responsive sites for smartphones/mobile devices - Maximum $1,000. Eligible costs may also include the design, development, and implementation of BEAM components such as e-commerce, customer relationship management, project management, analytics, and social media optimization -Maximum of $2,000. Content Writing and production, graphic design, photography services are not eligible costs. Site maintenance and ongoing costs are not eligible. Who is eligible: Businesses operating on a full-time basis for a minimum of one year, with a valid Canadian business number and established seasonal businesses. Business must be located in Northeastern Ontario within the Blue Sky Net service region *Hobby and part-time businesses are not eligible. Municipalities and Not-for-Profit organizations are not eligible to apply for funding. Funding available: BEAM will reimburse 75% of eligible costs up to $5,000 upon completion of project, production, professional development, residency, and travel. 18

22 BUSINESS SUPPORT SERVICES The Business Centre Nipissing Parry Sound Inc. The Business Centre Nipissing Parry Sound Inc. is a partnership between the City of North Bay, the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade, the Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, and Forestry, and various partners. The office assists in the start-up of new and the expansion of existing businesses. Services Included: One-on-one consultations; Review of business plans; Assistance with market research; Provision of relevant and timely business information Mentoring and networking opportunities; Internet and computer access for business research & planning; Professional advisor referrals; Import and export information; and Youth programming Visit for more information about the available programs & services. Canada Business Canada Business provides businesses with the resources they need to grow and prosper, including a wide range of information on government services, programs and regulations. Canada Business promotes entrepreneurship and innovation, and provides assistance through an organized network of service centres across Canada. Canada business reduces the complexity of dealing with multiple levels of government by: Consolidating business information in one convenient service; Enabling businesses to make well-informed business decisions in a global economy; and Contributing to business success through sound business planning, market research and the use of strategic business information. Visit for more information about the available programs & services. 19

23 The Labour Market Group The Labour Market Group is a community resource for local labour market information, collecting and disseminating statistical products and facts for the districts of Nipissing and Parry Sound. We work with employers to determine what their workforce development needs and challenges are, and then implement a plan to rectify these challenges by partnering with community agencies in the region. We work with a variety of community stakeholders to collect and disseminate relevant information to develop a better understanding of workforce issues and their impacts, generate awareness of existing workforce trends and increase capacity for planning, collaboration and partnerships. Through evidence-based research, LMG engages communities in a local labour market planning cycle that includes consultations, planning, implementation and monitoring. This process allows us the opportunity to gather pertinent labour force data, work with stakeholders to develop strategies and implement the actions identified. This information is presented in the annual Local Labour Market Plan and is made accessible to stakeholders throughout the region. The Labour Market Group is one of 26 Workforce Planning boards across Ontario funded by the Ontario Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities and is part of the Employment Ontario network. Visit for more information. 20