The Ontario government is investing $9.2 million to support economic development opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs and businesses.
Applications are now open for the province’s Indigenous Economic Development Fund (IEDF) and the Indigenous Community Capital Grants Program (ICCGP), which allow eligible applicants to apply for a grant and financing for projects that increase access to support for business, employment and training opportunities.
“By improving access to these programs, we are providing the opportunity for Indigenous entrepreneurs, businesses, and communities to receive the funding they need to unlock their economic potential,” said Minister of Indigenous Affairs Greg Rickford in a news release.
The IEDF will provide $3.2 million for access to skills training and other economic development initiatives that diversify Indigenous economies, support skills training, and other economic development initiatives.
The ICCGP will provide $6 million for Indigenous infrastructure projects that support the planning, renovation, or construction of buildings in First Nations and Métis communities, as well as Indigenous organizations on and off reserves.
Applications will be accepted until December 19 at 5 p.m. through Transfer Payment Ontario.