Backing Canadian Small Businesses Grant Program

About

The Backing Canadian Small Businesses Grant Program offers $10,000 CAD to 100 independent businesses in Canada, along with mentorship and business training to enhance their growth and community impact. This initiative, funded by American Express Canada and delivered by DMZ at Toronto Metropolitan University, aims to support local entrepreneurs in scaling their operations and strengthening local economies.

Benefits

• 💰Financial Support
  $10,000 CAD grant per business for 100 selected businesses
• 🎓Mentorship Program
  One-on-one mentoring sessions and group coaching workshops provided
• 📈Business Development Support
  Training includes sales strategies, marketing, operations, and leadership development
• 🌐Community Impact
  Strengthens local economic development and supports community-focused enterprises
• 📊Enhanced Skills
  Improves business capabilities and operational efficiency for participants

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants must be citizens, permanent residents, or legally authorized to work in Canada
• Applicants must be at least 18 years old
• Businesses must be independently owned and not a franchise
• Businesses must be incorporated in Canada and primarily operated within Canada
• Businesses must have been operating on or before January 1, 2026

Participation Commitments

• Must submit a complete application including business overview and growth plans
• Must participate in mentorship and training sessions provided by the program
• Must demonstrate community impact and readiness to scale operations
• Must confirm eligibility as both an applicant and a business

Target Sector

Small business and entrepreneurship

Target Location

Open to small businesses across Canada