Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP)
Federal program providing loans, ecosystem grants, and knowledge support to Black-led businesses across Canada including in Ontario.
About this program
The Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP) is a federal initiative led by ISED in partnership with Black-led business organizations and financial institutions. It has three pillars: the National Ecosystem Fund (grants to Black-led non-profits delivering business support), the Black Entrepreneurship Loan Fund (loans of $10,000-$250,000 to Black entrepreneurs delivered by partner lenders), and the Black Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub (research and data on Black entrepreneurship in Canada).
Eligibility
Black-led for-profit businesses in Canada (majority owned by Black Canadian, residents, or eligible newcomers). For ecosystem grants: Black-led non-profit organizations. Specific eligibility varies by partner.
Requirements
- For business owners: identify a participating Black Entrepreneurship Loan Fund lender (FACE Coalition is a primary delivery partner)
- Apply for the loan via the partner lender
- Provide business documentation including ownership and Black ownership attestation