Hello,

We understand that running a business can be challenging, especially when it comes to finding the right support and resources. That's why the RAISE Grant Program is here for you. This program offers a one-time $10,000 grant designed specifically for Indigenous, Black, and other racialized entrepreneurs in Ontario. The best part? You don't have to pay it back. This grant can be a significant boost, providing you with the financial support needed to grow your business without the stress of repayment.

But there's more to this program than just the financial aspect. By participating, you'll gain access to business development training, personalized coaching, and networking opportunities. These resources are tailored to help you sharpen your business skills and expand your professional network. You'll also develop a Business Action Plan, which is a roadmap to scale your business effectively. Once your plan is approved, the grant is yours to use on eligible expenses like marketing, digital transformation, and small equipment—tools that can help your business thrive.

This program is not just about immediate financial support; it's about investing in your future. You'll gain valuable insights and meet other entrepreneurs, opening doors to new opportunities. It's a chance to build skills, make connections, and take your business to the next level. This is your opportunity to invest in your business's growth and sustainability.

This program offers a one-time grant of $10,000 to eligible business owners. This grant does not require repayment, making it a highly beneficial form of financial support for your business growth and development initiatives.

Repayment and Interest Rates:

• Since this is a grant, there are no repayment terms or interest rates applicable. This means you receive the full financial benefit without any debt obligation.

Eligible Expenses:

• The grant can be used towards costs associated with your Business Action Plan. This includes:
  • Professional services fees.
  • Marketing and communications expenses.
  • Digital transformation initiatives.
  • Necessary travel expenses.
  • Capital costs like point-of-sale systems and small equipment.
  • Business-related materials and supplies.
  • Knowledge development activities.
  • Costs related to disability or accommodation supports.

Ineligible Expenses:

• The funds cannot be used for:
  • Owner or staff wages, salaries, and other payments.
  • Ongoing operational costs like maintenance and insurance.
  • Generic electronics considered personal or operational costs.
  • Acquisition of land, buildings, or vehicles.
  • Refinancing or amortization expenses.
  • Costs of intangible assets like goodwill.
  • Hospitality or entertainment expenses.
  • Membership fees in professional bodies.
  • Lease agreement components or inventory costs.

Fees:

• There are no application or processing fees associated with this grant. This ensures that the full amount of $10,000 is utilized towards eligible expenses without any deductions for administrative costs.

• Must be an Indigenous, Black, or other racialized individual.
• Must own a small business in Ontario.
• Business must be registered with the Canada Revenue Agency.
• Business must employ 1 to 10 full-time equivalent employees, including the owner, or up to 25 employees for businesses in the Accommodation and Food Services sector.
• Business must operate in Ontario as of November 17, 2023.
• Must comply with the Ontario Human Rights Code and hate-related laws under the Criminal Code.
• Business owner must be 18 years of age or older.
• Must be legally permitted to operate a business in Canada.
• Must currently live and operate their business in Ontario.
• Must commit to participating in the training and coaching components of the program, including networking, with a minimum total time requirement of 10 hours.
• Must develop a Business Action Plan to scale their business.
• Must not have participated in the RAISE grant program in previous years.

Disqualifications:

• Business is a franchise, including those individually owned and operated.
• Business is a not-for-profit organization or charity.
• Business is a Crown corporation, government agency, public administration, or political organization.
• Business has a primary activity related to tobacco, firearms, other weapons and related equipment (unless processing/selling tobacco for traditional Indigenous purposes), or products, services, or displays of a sexual nature.
• Business is in early development (i.e., business idea only, not yet registered with the CRA) or is a mature business planning for exit through sale.

This program offers $10,000 in funding to help your business grow. It's designed for Indigenous, Black, and other racialized entrepreneurs in Ontario. The grant is a one-time opportunity, and you don't have to pay it back. It's a great way to boost your business without the stress of repayment.

To get the grant, you'll complete a training and coaching program. This includes business development training, personalized coaching, and networking. You'll also create a Business Action Plan. Once your plan is approved, the grant is yours to use. Eligible expenses include marketing, digital transformation, and small equipment. These are all things that can help your business thrive.

The program is more than just money. It's about building skills and connections. You'll gain valuable insights and meet other entrepreneurs. This can open doors and create new opportunities for your business. It's a chance to invest in your future and take your business to the next level.