First Nations Women's Entrepreneurship program (FNWE)

The First Nations Women's Entrepreneurship (FNWE) Program is an initiative designed to support First Nations women in Ontario in launching or expanding their own businesses. Through a combination of micro loans, non-repayable grants, and ongoing business support, the FNWE Program aims to help women create viable, income-generating enterprises that contribute to economic development and community well-being.

FAQs

Eligible Business Types

Start-ups with the potential to create income and employment

Expansion projects for existing businesses

Businesses in any sector across Southern Ontario

Farm and food production businesses anywhere in Ontario

Businesses operating full-time or part-time, and located on or off reserve

What the Program Offers

  • A micro loan of up to $13,800 (at a fixed 6% interest rate over 6 years, with no payments required in the first year)

  • A non-repayable grant of up to $6,200

  • A required minimum equity contribution of 5% from the applicant

FNWE Participants Can Also Benefit From

  • Workshops focused on key business topics such as marketing, bookkeeping, and business planning

  • One-on-one business coaching and mentorship

  • Networking opportunities with other Indigenous entrepreneurs and professionals

Eligible Business Types

  • Start-ups with the potential to create income and employment

  • Expansion projects for existing businesses

  • Businesses in any sector across Southern Ontario

  • Farm and food production businesses anywhere in Ontario

  • Businesses operating full-time or part-time, and located on or off reserve

Eligible Expenses

Funding can be used for a wide range of business expenses, including:

  • Purchase of machinery, equipment, renovations, or leasehold improvements

  • Inventory and working capital (excluding owner's wages or draws)

  • Marketing and promotional materials

  • Business advisory or training services

  • Legal, accounting, or technical support

Who Can Apply

To be eligible, applicants must:

Be a First Nations woman with Status

Have a business that is at least 51% owned by a First Nations woman with Status

Be 18 years of age or older

Reside in Ontario

Demonstrate that FNWE funding is required and that other sources of financing have been exhausted

Application Process

Applicants must complete and submit an FNWE application form along with:

  • A copy of their First Nations Status Card
  • A Driver's License or other form of acceptable identification
  • (Optional) Supporting documents such as a business plan or financial statements to strengthen their application

Once submitted, applications are reviewed for eligibility. If approved to move forward, the applicant will be asked to provide a business plan and financial projections. Guidance and support are available at every step of the process.

For more information, program guide, or application, please email fnwe@firstnationsag.ca or call 1-800-363-0329.

Apply Today