Indigenous Entrepreneur Startup Program (IESP)
Indigenous Entrepreneur Startup Program (IESP)
Futurpreneur empowers aspiring young Indigenous entrepreneurs on their journey to success. The Indigenous Entrepreneur Startup Program (IESP) provides start-up loan financing and up to two years of mentorship, supported by a team with lived experience, offering access to tools and networking.
Our offering
The IESP is designed and operated by an Indigenous team that understands the barriers to success faced by young and aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs. IESP provides startup loan financing and up to two years of mentorship, supported by a team with lived experience, offering access to tools and networking opportunities across Canada.
Inclusive financing
A flexible equity-free startup business loan of up to $60,000* available to entrepreneurs on reserve. *conditions apply
Mentorship
Receive up to two years of 1:1 mentorship from an experienced business leader.
Resources
From Futurpreneur’s Ohpikiwin workshop series, designed to strengthen financial empowerment through an Indigenous lens, to our helpful business planning workshops and tools.
Networking opportunities
Engage with a national network of Indigenous entrepreneurs, leaders and Indigenous-led community organizations at a range of entrepreneurial events.
Ready to start your entrepreneurial journey?
Sign up here to get connected with a dedicated team member to learn more about Futurpreneur’s loan with mentorship and resources.
Alternatively, if your complete business plan and 24 month cash flow are ready for submission to Futurpreneur, click here to get started!
Are you eligible for the Indigenous Entrepreneur Startup Program?
See here for the top level criteria you have to meet to be eligible or click the button to see the full list:
See full eligibility criteria here
You must self-identify as Indigenous
Indigenous entrepreneurs who self-identify as members of other communities are also welcome to apply for support from Futurpreneur.
You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident aged 18-39
When you apply you must be within the stated age range in order to be eligible.
You are looking to launch a business or have been operating your business for less than one year
In order to be eligible, your business must not yet be operational or can only have been operating full time for 12 months or less.