This program is designed for small business owners like you who need a little extra funding to reach sustainability. You can receive up to $6,000 over three years to help with essential purchases. This includes tools, equipment, raw materials, and even filmmaking gear. The funding can also support other self-employment activities, making it versatile for various business needs.

Why should you apply? This program offers a unique advantage with its flexible equity requirements. Depending on your community, you may only need to cover 20-30% of the project costs. Additionally, sweat equity is accepted in certain cases, making it easier to qualify. By securing this funding, you can enhance your production quality or quantity, ultimately boosting your business's growth and sustainability.

What's in it for you? The funding can help you make critical purchases that might otherwise be out of reach. Whether you need new tools, raw materials, or equipment, this program provides the financial support to make it happen. Plus, the application process is straightforward, especially with the guidance of a regional Economic Development Officer. This is a great opportunity to invest in your business's future with minimal financial strain.

Type of Financing: Grant

Repayment Terms:

• There are no repayment terms. This is a non-repayable grant.

Eligible Expenses:

• Purchasing tools and equipment to increase the quality or quantity of production related to arts and crafts or the traditional economy.
• Purchase of raw materials for the production of traditional arts and crafts.
• Purchase of filmmaking equipment.
• Purchase of prospecting supplies, equipment, and other expenses directly related to prospecting activity.
• Other self-employment activities.

Ineligible Expenses:

• The funds cannot be used for personal expenses or any activities not directly related to the business purposes outlined above.

Fees:

• There are no fees associated with this grant program.

This program offers your business up to $6,000 over three years. You can use this money in several ways to help your business grow.

You can spend the funds on:

• Buying tools and equipment to improve the quality or quantity of your arts and crafts or traditional economy products.
• Purchasing raw materials for traditional arts and crafts.
• Getting filmmaking equipment.
• Acquiring prospecting supplies and equipment for prospecting activities.
• Supporting other self-employment activities.

You will need to cover a portion of the project costs yourself. If your business is in Yellowknife, Hay River, Fort Smith, or Inuvik, you need to contribute 30% of the project costs. For businesses in other communities within the NWT, the requirement is 20%. In some cases, sweat equity can be accepted.

Funding is available from April 1 to March 31 each year. This program is a great opportunity to get the financial support you need to take your business to the next level.