Access to capital remains a significant challenge for Black-owned businesses in Northern Ontario. The Black Entrepreneurship Program Loan Fund (Northern Ontario) offers flexible, repayable loans through a national program delivered with regional partners. If you are a Black entrepreneur looking to start, grow, or scale your business in Northern Ontario, this guide explains how the program works and how to apply.
The Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP) is a federal initiative developed with input from the Black business community to help address barriers to financing and support. A key part of the program is the Black Entrepreneurship Loan Fund, which provides repayable loans to eligible Black-owned businesses across Canada, including Northern Ontario.
For Northern Ontario, the program is supported by the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario (FedNor). The loans are delivered nationally by the Federation of African Canadian Economics (FACE).
Loans are usually not taxable, but you must repay them with interest. Ask a tax professional if you are unsure.
To apply for the Black Entrepreneurship Program Loan Fund in Northern Ontario, your business must meet both ownership and business criteria.
Startups are welcome to apply, but you will need a strong business plan and realistic financial projections.
Applications for the Black Entrepreneurship Program Loan Fund (Northern Ontario) are submitted directly through FACE, not FedNor.
Before applying, gather:
Incomplete applications often cause delays.
All loan applications go through the Federation of African Canadian Economics (FACE) online portal. FACE reviews eligibility, financial strength, and risk.
FACE may ask for:
Timelines depend on how complete your application is and the size of the loan.
If your application is approved, you will get:
GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you check if this loan or other Northern Ontario programs fit your business before you apply.
Approved loan funds can be used for:
You cannot use funds for personal expenses or non-business debt.
Thinking this is a grant
The Black Entrepreneurship Loan Fund is a loan. Plan for repayment in your cash flow.
Applying without clear financial projections
FACE looks at your ability to repay. Weak or unrealistic projections lower your chances.
Missing ownership documentation
You must prove 51%+ Black ownership. Verbal confirmation is not enough.
Requesting more than your business can support
Asking for the full $250,000 without proper justification may lead to extra scrutiny.
Q: Is the Black Entrepreneurship Program Loan Fund available in Northern Ontario?
Yes. The program covers Northern Ontario, with regional support from FedNor.
Q: How much funding can I receive?
Eligible businesses can receive up to $250,000 in repayable financing, based on business needs and FACE’s assessment.
Q: Is this loan taxable income?
Usually no. Loans are not taxable, but interest and repayment terms apply. For tax advice, consult a professional.
Q: Can startups apply with no revenue?
Yes. Startups can apply, but must provide strong business plans and realistic financial projections.
Q: Who reviews my application?
The Federation of African Canadian Economics (FACE) reviews and administers applications, not FedNor.
GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant and loan programs across Canada — check which ones fit your business profile.
See also:
Applying for the Black Entrepreneurship Program Loan Fund (Northern Ontario) starts with careful preparation. Make sure your business story, numbers, and funding request all match up. GrantHub helps Northern Ontario entrepreneurs find funding programs they qualify for — and understand how they work together — so you can apply with a complete and accurate application.
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