Deadline: June 14, 2026
Are you a young entrepreneur in Canada looking for funding to kick-start your business idea? The RBC Rock My Business Start-up Awards 2026 is here to empower innovative youth with funding, mentorship, and resources to bring their entrepreneurial dreams to life. This exciting initiative by RBC and Futurpreneur Canada supports aspiring entrepreneurs aged 18–39 with the skills and financial boost needed to start strong.
About the RBC Rock My Business Start-up Awards 2026
The RBC Rock My Business Start-up Awards 2026 is designed to celebrate and support emerging entrepreneurs across Canada. Through this programme, eight deserving applicants will each receive CAD $10,000 in start-up funding to launch or grow their business.
This initiative forms part of RBC’s ongoing commitment to nurturing young entrepreneurs, encouraging innovation, and promoting small business development in Canada.
Award Details
- Award Amount: Eight (8) awards of CAD $10,000 each.
- Application Deadline: June 14, 2026.
- Programme Partners: Futurpreneur Canada and Royal Bank of Canada (RBC).
- Award Purpose: The funding must be used strictly for start-up business expenses — not for debt repayment or personal use.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the RBC Rock My Business Start-up Awards 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Age: Between 18 and 39 years (as of June 14, 2026).
- Citizenship: Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- Workshops: Must have completed both the Rock My Business Plan and Rock My Cash Flow workshops between July 7, 2025 and May 28, 2026.
- Application Documents: Applicants are required to submit both:
- The RBC Awards Business Plan Template, and
- The Cash Flow Projection Template by June 14, 2026.
- Futurpreneur Loan: Applicants must not have received a Futurpreneur Canada start-up loan before July 1, 2025.
- Business Stage:
- Pre-revenue, part-time, or “side hustle” ventures are eligible if they operate less than 30 hours/week and generate under $25,000 in annual sales.
- Full-time businesses already operating prior to July 1, 2025 are ineligible.
- Business Sector: The following industries are excluded from eligibility:
- Alcohol
- Tobacco
- Cannabis
- Gambling
- Gaming
- Firearms
Key Dates to Remember
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Workshop Participation Window | 7 July 2025 – 28 May 2026 |
| Application Submission Deadline | 14 June 2026 |
| Award Announcement | To be announced by Futurpreneur |
Application Process
To apply for the RBC Rock My Business Start-up Awards 2026, applicants must follow these steps:
- Complete the Required Workshops:
Participate in the Rock My Business Plan and Rock My Cash Flow workshops hosted by Futurpreneur Canada within the specified time frame. - Prepare Your Application:
- Fill out the official RBC Awards Business Plan Template.
- Complete the Cash Flow Projection Template accurately, reflecting your expected income and expenses.
- Submit Before the Deadline:
Upload all required documents by June 14, 2026 via the official application portal. Late or incomplete submissions will not be considered.
Tips for a Strong Application
If you plan to apply, consider these expert tips to make your application stand out:
- Register early for the mandatory workshops to secure your spot.
- Draft your business plan and cash flow documents early — avoid last-minute errors.
- Focus on impact: Highlight how your business contributes to community development, innovation, or sustainability.
- Be realistic: Use achievable financial projections that demonstrate solid business understanding.
- Plan fund usage wisely: Emphasise how the $10,000 award will directly accelerate your start-up (e.g. marketing, equipment, inventory).
- Check sector restrictions to ensure eligibility.
- Gather supporting documents: Include market research or proof of concept where possible.
Why You Should Apply
Winning the RBC Rock My Business Start-up Awards 2026 does more than just provide funding — it gives you access to mentorship, credibility, and a network of entrepreneurial support. With the right preparation, you can transform your idea into a thriving business venture.
🔗 Useful Links
- 👉 Click here to Apply for the RBC Rock My Business Start-up Awards 2026
- 👉 Read More about the Programme on Futurpreneur Canada
Need help with your application?
📩 Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
