Deadline: October 1, 2025
The RAISE Grant Program 2025-2026 (Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs) is now open for applications. This initiative is designed to support Indigenous, Black, and other racialized entrepreneurs in Ontario, Canada, by providing business development training, culturally responsive coaching, networking opportunities, and a one-time grant of CAD $10,000.
Through this program, entrepreneurs gain not only financial support but also the tools, mentorship, and connections needed to scale their businesses successfully.
What the RAISE Grant Program Offers
Successful applicants to the RAISE Grant Program 2025-2026 will receive:
- Business Development Training – tailored workshops and learning opportunities.
- Culturally Responsive Coaching – one-on-one support adapted to the needs of racialized and Indigenous entrepreneurs.
- Networking Opportunities – access to business networks to foster growth and collaboration.
- One-Time CAD $10,000 Grant – financial support to strengthen and expand operations.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the RAISE Grant Program 2025-2026, businesses must meet the following conditions:
- Be registered with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
- Employ between 1–5 full-time equivalent employees, or up to 10 employees in the Accommodation and Food Services sector.
- Operate in Ontario, having been active from at least September 10, 2025, and continue to operate there throughout the program.
- Have annual gross revenue of CAD $750,000 or less.
- Be market-ready, with proven sales or revenue (ideas or untested concepts are not eligible).
- Hold valid commercial general liability insurance of at least CAD $2 million.
Ownership and Participation Requirements
- The owner must be Indigenous, Black, or racialized, aged 18 or older, and legally able to operate a business in Canada.
- The entrepreneur must reside in Ontario and operate their business there.
- Ownership rules apply by structure: sole proprietors must own their business; corporations/partnerships require at least 50% ownership by eligible individuals.
- Commitment to the program’s training, coaching, and networking sessions is mandatory, including at least 10 hours of participation.
- A Business Action Plan must be developed as part of scaling efforts.
Ineligible Businesses
The following types of businesses are not eligible for the RAISE Grant Program 2025-2026:
- Businesses that participated in past RAISE programs.
- Unregistered businesses or those still at the idea stage.
- Mature businesses seeking exit through sale.
- Franchises.
- Not-for-profit organisations and government agencies.
- Businesses engaged in illegal, harmful, or restricted activities (e.g., weapons, tobacco except for traditional Indigenous practices).
Application Deadline
- Deadline: October 1, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. EST.
- Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis until program capacity is reached.
How to Apply
Applicants are encouraged to prepare early as demand for the RAISE Grant Program 2025-2026 is expected to be high.
👉 Click here to apply now
👉 Read more about the programme
For expert assistance with proposal drafting, refining, and review, contact us today.
