Canada is increasing investment in its defence and national security supply chain. To support this, the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) created the BDC Defence and Security Business Mobilization Platform. This is a federal initiative with $4 billion available. The program helps Canadian defence and security companies grow. It also supports modernization and attracts investment from allies.
If your business works in defence, security, or dual-use technology, this platform could offer important funding. However, the application process is different from a typical grant or subsidy.
The BDC Defence and Security Business Mobilization Platform is not a single grant. Instead, it is a program where BDC provides up to $4 billion through loans, equity investments, and advisory services.
The main goals are to:
Most funding from this platform must be repaid or involves giving BDC part ownership in your business. It is not a non-repayable grant.
Eligibility depends on your sector and how your business fits with Canada’s defence needs.
Your business may qualify if you:
Priority sectors include:
There is no set minimum or maximum revenue requirement. BDC reviews each business separately. They consider risk, potential for growth, and how your business matches their goals.
The BDC Defence and Security Business Mobilization Platform offers three main supports:
These are repayable loans. BDC sets the terms based on your business’s risk and cash flow.
Equity funding means you do not repay the money, but BDC gets a share of your business.
Funding amounts are different for each business. There is no published funding cap, since support is structured based on your needs.
There is no set deadline. You can apply at any time.
Prepare your business case
Explain clearly how your business fits with defence or security. Show your growth plan, linked to contracts or export opportunities. Gather your financial statements and forecasts.
Contact BDC
Apply through BDC’s usual financing or investment channels. Make sure to state your project is defence or security-related.
BDC due diligence
BDC checks if your business is commercially viable. They review how your business fits with security and strategic needs. They assess risks and your ability to repay.
Funding structure finalized
BDC confirms the loan terms, equity structure, or scope of advisory services. They complete legal and compliance checks.
Since this is not a grant, the quality of your preparation is important. Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you quickly find programs by province and industry, including those that mix loans and non-repayable funding.
Thinking this is a grant
Most funding is repayable or gives BDC part ownership. You need to plan for cash flow.
Weak defence or security connection
Tech companies without a clear defence or dual-use focus are not likely to qualify.
No plan to grow
BDC looks for growth linked to contracts, exports, or supply chain expansion.
Not following funding stacking rules
You can sometimes combine BDC financing with grants, but only if you structure it correctly.
Q: Is the BDC Defence and Security Business Mobilization Platform a grant?
No. It mainly offers repayable loans, equity investments, and advisory services. It is not a grant program.
Q: Can dual-use technology companies apply?
Yes. Companies with technologies used for both civilian and defence purposes are a focus.
Q: How much funding can my business receive?
There is no fixed maximum. The amount depends on your project, risk, and the type of funding.
Q: Does funding need to be repaid?
Loans must be repaid. Equity investments do not, but BDC will own a share of your business.
Q: Is this connected to Canada’s NATO commitments?
Yes. The platform helps build supply chain capacity for increased defence spending and allied demand.
Show a clear link to defence or security.
Be specific about your products or services and how they fit with Canadian or allied defence needs.
Prepare solid financials.
Up-to-date financial statements and realistic forecasts show you are ready for funding.
Have a growth plan.
Explain how the funding will help you win contracts, enter new markets, or scale your operations.
Check for other funding.
Consider combining BDC support with grants or tax credits. GrantHub can help you see what is available for your business type.
The BDC Defence and Security Business Mobilization Platform can help your business grow, especially when combined with grants, tax credits, or regional programs. To find more funding options that fit your business, visit GrantHub to match your business with relevant funding programs. For ongoing updates on new programs and tips for Canadian companies, consider signing up for GrantHub’s newsletter.
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