Resources for Indigenous Entrepreneurs
Indigenous entrepreneurs represent the largest growing segment of the population*, and there are many unique resources available to support them.
*Source: Indigenous Entrepreneurship in Canada: The Impact and the Opportunity
Funding Opportunities
Support and Education
Opportunities for Indigenous Women
Our Commitment
The Hunter Hub for Entrepreneurial Thinking supports the University of Calgary’s commitment to an equitable, diverse, and inclusive campus. While we encourage all students to take advantage of the opportunities that are available for entrepreneurial thinking here at the Hunter Hub, we recognize that sometimes these aren’t enough.
We are committed to engaging with Indigenous peoples and communities in conversation and continuously working together to create new opportunities to support their entrepreneurial goals.
Contact
Hunter Hub for Entrepreneurial Thinking
403.220.4425
hunterhub@ucalgary.ca
Key Resources
Futurpreneur Canada: Supporting Indigenous Entrepreneurs
- Futurpreneur Canada has opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs aged 18-39 to apply for funding.
Aboriginal Financial Institutions
- The National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA) provides a list of institutions that provide loans and funding for First Nations, Metis, and Inuit businesses across Canada.
Alberta Indian Investment Corporation
- The Alberta Indian Investment Corporation is an Indigenous owned investment company that provides lending and business resources for Alberta’s Indigenous residents.
BDC – Business Loans for Indigenous Entrepreneurs
- BDC provides options for loans and financial advice for Indigenous entrepreneurs.
Futurpreneur Canada: Supporting Indigenous Entrepreneurs
- Futurpreneur Canada provides a suite of resources and a team of Indigenous advisors to support entrepreneurs through all stages of setting up a new venture.
Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business
- The Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business offers programs and opportunities for Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities to work together.
- The Government of Canada’s site with several resources specifically for support First Nations, Inuit, and Metis communities, including funding and social programs.
NextStep to Success: Program for Indigenous Women
- Alberta Women Entrepreneurs’ NextStep to Success in a business planning series designed specifically for Indigenous women.
Indigenous Women’s Entrepreneur Program (NACCA) (Funding Opportunities Available)
- The NACCA provide research, resources, workshops and tools specifically aimed at addressing needs of female Indigenous entrepreneurs.
Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business: Indigenous Women Entrepreneurship Fund
- This funding program is designed for Indigenous women. Currently applications are closed but there is contact information available on the site to learn more.
- A podcast hosted by Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg entrepreneur Sunshine Quem Tenasco that highlight stories of Indigenous entrepreneurs.
Contact the Hunter Hub if you have any questions about how our programming could be a good fit for you.