Indigenous Cannabis Business Fund — Business Planning, Design, and Capital

Entering or expanding within the regulated cannabis sector can be complex, especially when it comes to licensing, facility design, and securing enough capital to move from concept to operation. For Indigenous entrepreneurs and First Nation–owned businesses in British Columbia, the Indigenous Cannabis Business Fund — Business Planning, Design, and Capital offers meaningful financial support to help turn well-developed cannabis opportunities into viable, compliant businesses. Delivered by New Relationship Trust, this stream is focused on strengthening Indigenous participation across the cannabis value chain, from production and processing to retail and related services.

This funding stream supports larger, growth-oriented projects and can provide substantial non-repayable contributions, with funding reaching up to around one million dollars for businesses that meet program requirements. Support can be used for critical early and mid-stage needs such as feasibility work, business and facility planning, licensing and permitting costs, professional advisory services, and a portion of capital expenses tied to starting, expanding, or transitioning into the regulated market. The program is designed to reduce financial barriers while encouraging strong governance, regulatory compliance, and long-term economic impact within Indigenous communities.

For Indigenous-owned cannabis businesses in BC looking to build something sustainable and community-driven, this fund can play a pivotal role in moving plans forward. Understanding how the funding works, what costs may be covered, and how projects are assessed is an important next step for any business considering this opportunity.