Finding Grants in Canada
When I started my business, I searched high and low for grants to allow me a bit of capital while I got situated. It was hard to find something that would fit my business and that was available to my business.
Here are some of the ways I found grants or that my clients have found grants.
Government Grants
First, we have government grants. The Canadian government offers various grants and funding programs at the federal, provincial, and territorial levels to support businesses across different industries.
These programs aim to stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and encourage innovation. Their website will ask you questions about your business, where you live, and how many employees you have.
Once those are answered, it will provide all the top grant options and then you can apply for them. As you apply for them, you’ll likely get connected with other organizations.
Community Grants
Then, we have community grants - usually funded by Futurepreneur, Community Future, or local credit unions.
Several online databases and directories are dedicated to helping Canadian businesses find grants and funding opportunities like those just mentioned. These platforms simplify the process of finding suitable grants by allowing you to search based on your business's specific needs and objectives.
Academic/Scholastic Grants
Finally, if you’re a student, sometimes you can get grants from the local entrepreneurship university or college.
There are a wide variety of grants available through your institution, with every institution having different grants specific to them. Utilise your academic support resources to research and check your eligibility and match best with a grant to apply for.
As an alumnus, there may be relevant awards or grants of recognition that you could apply for or still receive so be sure to check your alumni updates and news for opportunities.
It is important to know that as the world of business changes, business grant programs also change over time, with new opportunities emerging regularly. You can stay informed on relevant information concerning grants by subscribing to newsletters, following relevant government agencies on social media, and regularly checking their websites for updates on grants and funding programs.
To wrap up, here’s a list of a few resources for finding grants in Canada as well as some provincial options. Of course, listing academic resources would take all day but just check where you’re based.
And don’t forget - Grants are considered income.
If you have any questions about your bookkeeping or how to grow your business, book a free consult call with us today.