Entrepreneurial and Business Development Program (EBD): How to Apply

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Entrepreneurial and Business Development Program (EBD): How to Apply

If you run an Indigenous-owned business in Yukon, finding funding can feel overwhelming. The Entrepreneurial and Business Development Program (EBD) helps Indigenous businesses in Yukon grow and improve. This program offers up to $99,999 per project in non-repayable funding, making it one of the most generous business grants in Yukon.


What Is the Entrepreneurial and Business Development Program (EBD)?

The Entrepreneurial and Business Development Program (EBD) is delivered by däna Näye Ventures. Its main goal is to help Indigenous people in Yukon become more economically independent. The program provides funding for projects that help businesses start, expand, or improve through training, planning, and market development.

How Much Funding Is Available?

  • Maximum funding: Up to $99,999 per approved project
  • Funding type: Non-repayable grant
  • Application timing: First come, first served while funds remain available

There is no minimum amount published. The funding you get depends on your project’s scope and budget.


EBD Program Eligibility Requirements

Make sure your business meets these rules before you apply.

Eligible Applicants

You may qualify if your business is:

  • Individually owned and Indigenous-owned
  • A small or medium-sized business
  • Based in Yukon

Ineligible Applicants and Costs

You are not eligible if:

  • You spent or committed project costs before submitting your application
  • Your business does not meet Indigenous ownership requirements

Many applications are declined because costs were committed too early. Timing is important.


What Expenses Does the EBD Grant Cover?

The EBD program covers many practical business costs. Examples include:

  • Business and skills training
  • Planning and feasibility studies
  • Research and product development
  • Market development and marketing activities
  • Innovation projects
  • Wages for staff working on the project
  • Equipment needed for the project

If you are unsure about a cost, tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you check which expenses are covered by programs in your region.


How to Apply for the EBD Program

Applying for the EBD program is easier than many federal grants, but you still need to follow each step carefully.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Define Your Project

Describe what you plan to do, why it is important, and what results you expect.

2. Prepare a Detailed Budget

List only future costs for your project. Do not include expenses already committed or spent.

3. Complete the Application Form

The form is straightforward and can be completed quickly if you have your information ready.

4. Submit Early

Applications are reviewed on a first come, first served basis until the funding runs out.

5. Wait for Assessment

Your application will be assessed based on eligibility, project fit, and available funds.


Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Starting your project before applying
    Costs committed before submission are not eligible, even if your project is approved later.

  2. Submitting an unclear budget
    Vague budgets can delay the review and may lower your approved funding.

  3. Assuming funding is guaranteed
    The EBD program is competitive. Funds are limited.

  4. Ignoring tax implications
    Grants are usually taxable income. Check with your accountant before spending.


Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who is eligible for the Entrepreneurial and Business Development Program (EBD)?
Only small and medium-sized individually owned Indigenous businesses in Yukon are eligible.

Q: How much funding can I receive from the EBD program?
You can receive up to $99,999 per project, based on your project’s scope and eligible costs.

Q: What expenses does the EBD program cover?
Eligible costs include training, planning, research, market development, innovation, wages, and equipment for the approved project.

Q: Can I apply if I already started my project?
No. Costs committed before applying are not eligible for funding.

Q: Is EBD funding taxable?
Usually, yes. Grant funding is considered taxable income. Ask your accountant for advice.


GrantHub tracks hundreds of grant programs across Canada. This includes Indigenous and Yukon-specific funding, helping you quickly find programs that match your business profile.


Next Steps

The Entrepreneurial and Business Development Program (EBD) is a strong choice if you are an Indigenous entrepreneur in Yukon planning a new business project. Before you apply, check your eligibility, prepare your budget, and submit your application early. If you want to compare other programs or see more funding options, GrantHub can help you discover grants based on your location, ownership, and project goals.

See also:

  • What Business Expenses Are Eligible Across Canadian Grants and Loans?
  • Repayable vs Non-Repayable Business Funding in Canada: Program Examples Explained
  • What Skills and Support Do Canadian Business Accelerator Programs Provide?

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