Support for Entrepreneurs and Economic Development (SEED) — Business Intelligence and Networking
Highlights
This program is designed for you. It offers up to $8,000 per year to help you attend seminars and trade shows. These events are great for learning about new technologies and business opportunities. You can send up to two people from your business, with a maximum of $4,000 per person per trip.
Why Apply?
- Financial Assistance: Covers event registration fees, airfare, and accommodation.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry leaders and potential partners.
- Stay Competitive: Gain insights into cutting-edge ideas and trends.
Benefits
- Easy to Qualify: Simple application process with support from regional Economic Development Officers.
- Boost Your Business: Access valuable information and contacts to grow your business.
- Government-Backed: Reliable funding source with clear guidelines.
Applying for this program can give your business the edge it needs to thrive. Take advantage of this opportunity to expand your knowledge and network.
Financing Details
Type of Financing: Grant
Repayment Terms and Interest Rates:
- No repayment required.
- No interest rates apply.
Eligible Expenses:
- Event registration fees.
- Lowest available airfare.
- Standard accommodation.
Ineligible Expenses:
- Per diems.
- Incidentals.
- Salaries.
- Honoraria.
Fees:
- No fees associated with the program.
Qualifications
- Must be a Northwest Territories (NWT) Resident or NWT Business.
- Trip costs must exceed $1,500 per traveller.
- Eligible costs include event registration fees, lowest available airfare, and standard accommodation.
- Minimum of $500 allocated towards eligible costs for travel inside the NWT.
Minimum of $1,000 allocated towards eligible costs for travel outside the NWT.
Disqualifications:
- Expenses including per diems, incidentals, salaries, and honoraria are excluded.
Description
This program offers your business a chance to grow by connecting you with new ideas and valuable contacts. You can receive up to $8,000 per year to cover costs for attending seminars and trade shows. These events can help you learn about new technologies and business opportunities.
Eligible expenses include:
- Event registration fees
- Lowest available airfare
- Standard accommodation
To qualify, your trip costs must exceed $1,500 per traveler. You must also contribute a minimum of $500 for travel within the NWT or $1,000 for travel outside the NWT. This ensures you are invested in the opportunity.
This funding is available from April 1 to March 31 each year. It’s a great way to gain insights and make connections that can help your business thrive.
Program Steps
Contact Your Regional Economic Development Officer: Reach out to your regional Economic Development Officer to discuss your idea and get guidance on the application process.
Complete the Application Form: Download and fill out the SEED Application Form from the program's website.
Prepare Required Documentation: Gather the following documents to attach to your application:
- Business plan or proposal
- Financial statements
- Event registration details
- Travel itinerary and cost estimates
- Proof of residency or business registration in NWT
Review Equity Requirements: Ensure you meet the minimum equity requirements:
- $500 for travel inside the NWT
- $1000 for travel outside the NWT
Submit the Application: Submit the completed application form and all required documents to your regional office.
Await Approval: The regional office will review your application. They may contact you for additional information or clarification.
Receive Funding: If approved, you will receive the financial assistance to cover eligible costs associated with your trip.
Attend the Event: Use the funds to attend the seminar or trade show, gaining valuable information and contacts for your business.
Submit a Post-Trip Report: After the trip, provide a report detailing how the event benefited your business and how the funds were used.
Maintain Records: Keep all receipts and documentation related to the trip for future reference or audits.