By H. Huffman
A new $100 million program from the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) and First Nations Bank of Canada (FNBC) offers a promising opportunity for First Nations to strengthen their economic sovereignty. The joint financing initiative aligns with the growing recognition of Indigenous leadership in economic development and responds to the urgent need for tools that support long-term, community-driven prosperity.
The initiative is designed to support the acquisition of established businesses by First Nations and provides up to 100% financing. This financing is supported by a guarantee from BDC, which means that applicants may purchase a business without providing up-front equity. There are no funding minimums or caps.
The program is open to First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, economic development groups, and organizations who would acquire at least 51% ownership of an existing business. To be eligible, the acquisition must include an operating business component—having some element of functional or existing business. The program will fund several types of businesses in the eligible industries such as manufacturing, services & retail, natural resources & energy, tourism & hospitality, and professional. The program is not open to individuals.
The program arrives at a time when many Canadian business owners are preparing for retirement, creating a unique opening for Indigenous communities to acquire businesses with established track records. With an average deal size of $5 million, the initiative is structured to support meaningful investments that can generate employment, revenue, and influence in sectors where Indigenous ownership is increasingly prioritized. For communities seeking to expand their economic footprint, this initiative offers a practical and timely pathway to ownership—one that complements existing efforts to build sustainable, self-determined economies.
At Woodward & Company, we are committed to supporting our clients in navigating opportunities like this with clarity and confidence. We understand the importance of structuring acquisitions in ways that reflect Indigenous legal traditions, governance models, and community values. Whether your Nation is exploring a first-time acquisition or expanding an existing portfolio, our team is here to assist with legal advice tailored to your goals. We encourage interested First Nations to contact us to learn more about how this initiative might support your Nation’s vision for economic development.
For More Information
BDC and First Nations Bank of Canada launch a $100M initiative to boost …
https://www.fnbc.ca/commercial/business-acquisition-loan-for-indigenous-communities