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Aboriginal Business Info-Guide

Last Verified: 2006-07-21

What is an Info-Guide?

The Canada/Manitoba Business Service Centre created Info-Guides to help you navigate through the wide range of programs and services in a specific area as well as related regulations that may affect your business venture. Info-Guides featuring other topics of interest are also available by contacting the Canada/Manitoba Business Service Centre at 984.2272 (in Winnipeg) or 1.800.665.2019 (toll free in Canada) or by e-mail at manitoba@cbsc.ic.gc.ca.

TABLE OF CONTENTS


Business Financing

Aboriginal Arts - Grant Programs
Louise Profeit-LeBlanc, Aboriginal Arts Coordinator
Aboriginal Arts Secretariat
Canada Council for the Arts
P.O. Box 1047, 350 Albert Street, Ottawa, ON K1P 5V8
Phone - Toll free: 1-800-263-5588
E-mail: info@canadacouncil.ca
Internet: http://www.canadacouncil.ca/aboriginal/

Aboriginal Peoples Collaborative Exchange - National and International Project Grants
- Assists individual artists or artistic groups from Aboriginal communities to travel to other Aboriginal communities to share traditional and/or contemporary knowledge or practices that will foster the development of their artistic practice.

Aboriginal Peoples Collaborative Exchange - National and International - Travel Grant
- Assists with Travel Costs.

For detailed information about application procedures, eligibility criteria and deadlines for the above programs or other funding programs available from Canada Council for the Arts, please contact them directly at the number listed above.

Aboriginal Business Canada
Industry Canada - IC
4th Floor - 400 St. Mary Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3C 4K5
Phone: (204) 983-7316
Fax: (204) 983-4107
E-mail: abc-winnipeg@ic.gc.ca
Internet: http://strategis.ic.gc.ca/epic/internet/inabc-eac.nsf/en/home

Aborginal Business Canada (ABC) provides support to Aboriginal entrepreneurs for a range of activities including business planning, start-up, expansion and marketing. They provide financial assistance, business information and resource materials and referrals to other possible sources of financing or business support.

Aboriginal Housing Programs and Services
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation - CMHC
600 - 175 Hargrave Street, Winnipeg, MB R3C 3R8
Phone: (204) 983-5600 or Toll free 1-888-841-4975
Internet: http://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/en/ab/index.cfm

CMHC works with Aboriginal groups to respond, where possible, with information, new financing, skill development and other initiatives that will encourage investment and solutions to housing challenges faced by Aboriginal communities across Canada.

Anishinabe Mazaska Capital Corporation
Room 811 - 294 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3C 0B9
Phone: (204) 940-5000 or Toll free 1-800-665-8935
Fax: (204) 940-5003
E-mail: info.amcc@shawcable.com
Internet: http://www.amcc.mb.ca

Loans (up to $200,000) available to any treaty or status Indian, or person eligible under Bill C31, from the First Nations of the Dakota Ojibway Tribal Council or the Southeast Resource Development Council who wishes to start, expand or acquire a commercial business, either on or off reserve. Types of loans include term loans, working capital loans, bridging loans and joint loans with other lenders. All eligible projects must demonstrate financial viability, and are subject to a minimum applicant equity contribution of 20% of the total project costs, made up of unencumbered cash or with pledged assets integral to the business.

Commercial Lending Program
Tribal Wi-Chi-Way-Win Capital Corporation
203 - 400 St. Mary Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3C 4K5
Phone: (204) 943-0888 or Toll free 1-800-568-8488
Fax: (204) 946-5318
E-mail: info@twcww.mb.ca
Internet: http://www.twcc.mb.ca/clp.html

Provides loans (up to $175,000) for the establishment, expansion or diversification of self-sustaining Aboriginal businesses in Manitoba. Direct term loans are provided for the purpose of acquiring fixed assets to be used for business purposes. Working capital loans are provided for the purpose of improving the working capital position of a business where there is securable equity in the fixed assets of the business. Bridging loans may be made available to provide bridge financing while the borrower is awaiting payment or funding from a third party. All loan applications must be accompanied by a business plan, market study (for new ventures). All loan applicants must have at least a 10% equity in the respective project. 

First Nations Farm Credit Program
Tribal Wi-Chi-Way-Win Capital Corporation
27 - 2nd Avenue, Dauphin, MB, R7N 3E5
Phone: (204) 638-6132
Fax: (204) 638-2854
E-mail: info@twcww.mb.ca
Internet: http://www.twcc.mb.ca/farm.html

To provide loans (to a maximum of $175,000) to any member of a First Nations in Manitoba wishing to start, expand or acquire a viable farm unit in Manitoba. Minimum equity required is 10%. Administration fee will be charged (minimum $200 up to 1% of the loan).

Growth Capital for Aboriginal Business
Business Development Bank of Canada - BDC
1100 - 155 Carlton Street, Winnipeg, MB R3C 3H8
Phone: 1-888-463-6232
E-mail: info@bdc.ca
Internet:http://www.bdc.ca/en/home.htm

Offers financing of up to $100,000 for existing businesses and $25,000 for start-ups to Aboriginal business people who want to start a small business or expand an existing business either on or off reserve. Loan repayments will be flexible. To be eligible, applicants must provide a solid business plan and demonstrate strong management capability, financial commitment to the business, and evidence of strong earning potential. Participants must be willing to participate in a Mentorship Program.

Louis Riel Capital Corporation
340 - 150 Henry Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3B 0J7
Phone: (204) 589-0772 or Toll free 1-800-387-6004
Fax: (204) 589-0791
E-mail: lrcc@lrcc.mb.ca

A Manitoba Metis-owned lending institution and resource centre which offers business loans, business counselling, referrals, and business planning assistance to individuals of Metis or non-status Indian ancestry who seek guidance and direction to start, acquire or expand a business. The maximum allowable financing under the Direct Capital Loans and Bridge Financing programs allows for $100,000 loans.

In order to foster business opportunities and start-ups amongst the Metis population, LRCC maintains a voluntary database register of Metis business owners and prospective owners in the province of Manitoba.

LRCC also administers a Youth Business Loan Fund, whereby a Metis or Non-Status Indian youth, aged 35 years or younger, may qualify to start, acquire, or expand a business within the province of Manitoba.

Peace Hills Trust Company
244 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3C 0B1
Phone: (204) 943-8093
Fax: (204) 943-8251
E-mail: Winnipeg@peacehills.com
Internet: http://www.peacehills.com

Serves the financial needs of the First Nations and their members, corporations, institutions, and associations both on and off reserve and also provides financial services to non-native clientele.

Taxation

Tax Information for Status Indians
Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)
325 Broadway, Winnipeg, MB R3C 2W2
Phone: Toll free 1-800-959-5525
Internet: http://www.cra.gc.ca/aboriginals/menu-e.html

An online reference for Status Indians.  Information on:

  • Benefit Programs
  • Employement Income
  • Federal Excise Tax and Duty
  • GST/HST
  • Investment Income
  • Tax Exemption
  • Business Income
  • Corporations and Trusts
  • Employer Source Deductions (Payroll)

GST/HST and Indians
Canada Revenue Agency - CRA
325 Broadway, Winnipeg, MB R3C 2W2
Phone: Toll free 1-800-959-5525
Internet: http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/tax/business/topics/gst/indian/menu-e.html

Under the Indian Act, the GST does not apply to certain goods and services.

Indian Taxation Advisory Board (ITAB)
Phone: Eastern Office (613) 954-6201
Phone: Western Office (250) 828-9857
Internet: http://www.itab.ca

Provides advice and assistance to First Nations considering real property taxation.

Business Services

Aboriginal Business Development
Manitoba Industry, Economic Development and Mines
c/o Canada/Manitoba Business Service Centre
250 - 240 Graham Avenue, P.O. Box 2609, Winnipeg, MB R3C 4B3
Phone: (204) 945-8601 or Toll free 1-800-665-2019
Fax: (204) 983-3852

Promotes entrepreneurship training, business information, seminars and counselling to Aboriginal individuals and community organizations interested in developing small business and promoting entrepreneurship.

Aboriginal Business Service Network (ABSN)
c/o Canada/Manitoba Business Service Centre
Room 250 - 240 Graham Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3C 4B3
Phone: (204) 984-2272 or Toll free 1-800-665-2019
Internet: http://www.cbsc.org/servlet/ContentServer?pagename=OpenMarket/Xcelerate/Preview&c=CBSC_WebPage&cid=1113474162483&t=CBSC_SplashPage_Temp

The Aboriginal Business Service Network (delivered through the Canada/Manitoba Business Service Centre) is committed to providing the Aboriginal business community with a wide range of information on government services, programs and regulations that are relevant, up-to-date and accurate.

Aboriginal Contract Guarantee Instrument (ACGI)
Silu' Corporation, National Aboriginal Capital Corporation Association - NACCA
Phone: (613) 688-0894
Fax: (613) 688-0895
E-mail: office@nacca.net
Internet: http://www.nacca.net

Silu' Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of NACCA, established to guarantee the work of Aboriginal contractor to project owners and managers. This is accomplished through the use of an Aboriginal Contract Guarantee Instrument, which functions like a line of credit for contractor to give performance assurances without unduly risking capital and cash flow.

Aboriginal Workforce Participation Initiative (AWPI) : AWPI Employer Toolkit
Indian & Northern Affairs Canada - INAC
Room 200 - 365 Hargrave Street, Winnipeg, MB R3B 3A3
Phone: (204) 983-4928
Fax: (204) 983-7820
Internet: http://www.ainc-inac.gc.ca/ai/awpi/index_e.html

The Aboriginal Workforce Participation Initiative (AWPI) is a national initiative designed to help employers recruit, retain and promote Aboriginal employees. The toolkit is designed to provide quick access to information geared to Aboriginal employment. Also available is the AWPI - A Practical Guide to Implementing Aboriginal Employment Partnerships.

Aboriginal Peoples Survey
Statistics Canada - SC
Suite 200 - 123 Main Street, Winnipeg, MB R3C 4V9
Phone: Toll free: 1-800-263-1136
E-mail: infostats@statcan.ca
Internet: http://www.statcan.ca:8096/bsolc/english/bsolc?catno=89-591-XIE

Statistics Canada maintains files that provide a social and economic profile of Aboriginal people. These are available in publications, microdata files and electronic products.

Assembly of First Nations
One Nicholas Street, Suite 1002, Ottawa, ON K1N 7B7
Phone: (613) 241-6789 or Toll free 1-866-869-6789
Fax: (613) 241-5808
Internet: http://www.afn.ca/article.asp?id=3

Presents the views of the various First Nations through their leaders in areas such as: Aboriginal and Treaty Rights, Economic Development, Education, Languages and Literacy, Health, Housing, Social Development, Justice, Taxation, Land Claims, Environment, and a whole array of issues that are of common concern which arise from time to time.

CIDA's Aboriginal Procurement Strategy (CAPS)
Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA)
Mr. Henry Fast, Program Officer
Box 2609, 250 - 240 Graham Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3C 4B3
Phone: (204) 983-1502 or Toll free - 1-800-665-2019
E-mail: henry_fast@acdi-cida.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.acdi-cida.gc.ca/CIDAWEB/acdicida.nsf/En/REN-218124638-P5F

Aimed at promoting Aboriginal business development through the procurement process at CIDA. Aboriginal suppliers wishing to be included in the CIDA bidding process must first make sure to register in the Aboriginal Business Directory maintained by the Industry Canada, Internet address - http://strategis.ic.gc.ca/cgi-bin/sc_coinf/ccc/index_gen/company.pl?lang=e&profileId=629_t

Canada's Virtual Aboriginal Trade Show
Government of Canada
Toll free: 1-888-399-0111
E-mail: acp@inac.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.aboriginalcanada.gc.ca/abdt/apps/vats2.nsf/splash.html

The Virtual Aboriginal Trade Show (VATS) is an innovative Internet showcase of Aboriginal entrepreneurs, products and services. To be eligible as a member, your company must meet all of the following criteria: You must be an Aboriginal entrepreneur or have at least 51% Aboriginal ownership and control of a joint venture; you must have a functional web site where your products and/or services are available to the public; your company must be actively exporting or export ready.

Canadian Bankers Association (CBA)
Toll free: 1-800-263-0231
E-mail: CBAcallcentre@cba.ca
Internet: http://www.cba.ca/en/viewdocument.asp?fl=3&sl;=89&tl;=90&docid;=450&pg;=1

Has a document entitled "Understanding the Regulatory Environment for On-Reserve Lending."

Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business
204A St. George Street, Coach House, Main Floor, Toronto, ON M5R 2N5
Phone: (416) 961-8663
Fax: (416) 961-3995
Internet: http://www.ccab.com

Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business is dedicated to promoting the full participation of Aboriginal people in the Canadian economy. CCAB's mission is to broker business relationships between the corporate sector and the Aboriginal community.

CESO Aboriginal Services
Ronald A. Scanlan, Regional Manager
Unit A - 288 Marion Street, Winnipeg, MB R2H 0T7
Phone: (204) 949-0177 or Toll free 1-888-949-0177
Fax: (204) 942-1647
E-mail: manitoba@ceso-saco.com
Internet: http://www.ceso-saco.com/english/national/aboriginal/index.php

CESO is a unique, not-for-profit organization which transfers technical and managerial expertise to Canadian Aboriginal Peoples, businesses and communities. Its mission is to support Aboriginal Peoples in achieving self-sufficiency and growth. The services provided are:

1. Business Support Services - Marketing/feasibility studies, business plans, lands and resources, funding, etc.
2. General Administration/Organizational Development - Working with communities, organizations, businesses, etc. in relation to financial and accounting systems, audits, human resource development, manufacturing quality control, etc.
3. Community Economic Development, Planning and Resource Management - Working with communities in the area of housing, community planning, land use planning, etc.
4. Governance/Leadership Workshops - Working with senior levels of Bands, Communities, Board of Directors, etc. in the areas of conflict resolution, roles and responsibilities, communications, how to govern, etc.

Fees include cost of Adviser's travel, lodging and meals, workshop materials and a minimal administrative fee.

Directory of Aboriginal Exporters
International Trade Canada - ITCan
Toll Free: 1-800-267-8376
E-mail: enqserv@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.international.gc.ca/aboriginalplanet/750/business/directory2002-en.asp

A directory of Aboriginal small - and medium-sized enterprises that are exporting, export-prepared or export-oriented. It is used by Canada's trade network at home and abroad to encourage the participation of Aboriginal companies in federal government international business development activities.

Journey to Success Aboriginal Women's Business Planning Guide
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada - INAC
Phone: 1-800-567-9604
E-mail: infopubs@ainc-inac.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.ainc-inac.gc.ca/ps/ecd/js/journ_e.pdf

Indian and Northern Affairs Canada has developed a business planning guide specifically for Aboriginal women considering starting a business. Some of the subject matter that is covered in this guide is: What do I need to know before starting a business? How do I develop my product or idea? Do I really need a business plan? How do I get money to start up? What role do governments play? How can I market my business? Should I use consultants? Should I get a mentor? Can I keep my business going and still have time to look after my family?

Native Investment and Trade Association
6520 Salish Drive, Vancouver, B.C. V6N 2C7
Phone: (604) 275-6670 or Toll free 1-800-337-7743
Fax: (604) 275-0307
Internet: http://www.native-invest-trade.com

An Aboriginal non-profit association dedicated to pursuing self-reliance through entrepreneurship. Its main activity is producing Aboriginal conferences, trade shows and business events across the nation. Through training and education, and by acting as facilitators between the Native and non-Native business world, it is providing guidance and advice to Aboriginal organizations across Canada. In particular, it works with organizations seeking to increase employment, business and related industrial or commercial opportunities.

Procurement Strategy for Aboriginal Business
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada - INAC
200 - 365 Hargrave Street, Winnipeg, MB R3B 3A3
Phone: (204) 983-2145
Fax: (204) 983-7820
E-mail: psab-saea@ainc-inac.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.ainc-inac.gc.ca/saea-psab/index_e.html

A program launched by the federal government to help Aboriginal firms become more involved in bidding on government contracting opportunities. Aboriginal Business people first register their company on the Aboriginal Business Directory (ABD). To register on the ABD, please visit: http://strategis.ic.gc.ca/cgi-bin/sc_coinf/ccc/index_gen/company.pl?lang=e&profileId;=629_t or you can call 1-800-328-6189.

Aboriginal Business Directories on the Internet

ARCnet
http://arcnet.taybridge.com

Inuit Business Directory
http://inuit.pail.ca

Aboriginal Business Directories in Print

The Native Investment and Trade Association
http://www.native-invest-trade.com/directories.html

Indiana Marketing
http://www.indianamarketing.com/anglais/lesite.html

Aboriginal Business Directory published by the Procurement Services Branch of the Manitoba Government
http://www.gov.mb.ca/gs/psb/ABR.pdf

Online Information Sources

Aboriginal Business Canada's Reports and Studies
http://strategis.ic.gc.ca/epic/internet/inabc-eac.nsf/en/h_ab00152e.html

Aboriginal Businesses: Characteristics and Strategies for Growth
http://strategis.ic.gc.ca/epic/internet/ineas-aes.nsf/en/ra01682e.html

Aboriginal Entrepreneurs in 2002
http://strategis.ic.gc.ca/epic/internet/inabc-eac.nsf/en/ab00313e.html

Aboriginal Entrepreneurs Survey, 2002
http://strategis.ic.gc.ca/epic/internet/inabc-eac.nsf/vwapj/EOnResOff8.pdf/$FILE/EOnResOff8.pdf

Eagle's Eye View: A Comprehensive Scan of the Aboriginal Community in Winnipeg
http://www.unitedwaywinnipeg.mb.ca/pdf/eagles-eye-view-2k4.pdf

Self-Employed Aboriginals Data from the 2001 Census
http://www12.statcan.ca/english/census01/products/standard/themes/RetrieveProductTable.cfm?Temporal=2001&PID=73633&APATH=3&GID=517770&METH=1&PTYPE=55496&THEME=45&FOCUS=0&AID=0&PLACENAME=0&PROVINCE=0&SEARCH=0&GC=0&GK=0&VID=0&FL=0&RL=0&FREE=0

Collection of reports and studies dealing with Aboriginal issues.

Aboriginal Planet
Foreign Affairs Canada
E-mail: aboriginalplanet@dfait-maeci.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.international.gc.ca/aboriginalplanet/

Aboriginal Planet Online Magazine reports monthly on the Canadian Aboriginal events taking place around the world and on important international Aboriginal events taking place in Canada.

Aboriginal Canada Portal
Internet: http://www.aboriginalcanada.gc.ca

The Aboriginal Canada Portal is your single window to Canadian Aboriginal on-line resources, contacts, information and government programs and services.

Aboriginal Resource Guide
Internet: http://www.aboriginalresourcenet.com/Eng/index.htm

A website which contains information and programs for Aboriginal business people in the areas of training, business plans, funding sources, business environment, and help with running a business.

Congress of Aboriginal Peoples (CAP)
Internet: http://www.abo-peoples.org

Provides information about Aboriginal peoples across Canada who live in a non-reserve setting whether urban, rural or wilderness.

Youth

First Nations and Inuit Student Summer Employment Opportunities Program
Mr. Derek Bradley
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada - INAC
Room 200 - 365 Hargrave Street, Winnipeg, MB R3B 3A3
Phone: (204) 983-2330
Fax: (204) 983-1626
E-mail: BradleyD@inac-ainc.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.ainc-inac.gc.ca/ps/ys/yth6_e.html
 
This program will financially support opportunities for career-related work experience during the summer months for in-school First Nations youth living on a reserve and in-school Inuit youth living in recognized communities. Eligible employers include First Nations and Inuit governments and organizations. Students must be between the ages of 15 and 30; be legally entitled to work in Canada and cannot have another full-time summer job. The non-profit sector is eligible to receive a contribution of up to 100% of the applicable wage and private sector is eligible to receive a contribution of up to 50% of applicable wage. Where a participant with disabilities is hired, all employers are eligible to apply for 100% of the wage. A maximum contribution of $3,000 per participant may be available, on an actual cost basis, for special equipment and facilities to accommodate the student's needs.

Young Canada Works for Aboriginal Urban Youth
Young Canada Works
Toll Free: 1-800-935-5555
E-mail: ycwcoordinator@pch.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.pch.gc.ca/special/ycw-jct/html/aboriginal_e.htm#urban

Provides summer employment to as many as 300 students, graduates or unemployed youth intending to return to school, who are between the ages of 16 and 30. Periods of employment ranging from 6 to 16 consecutive weeks, are organized through a network fo 117 Aboriginal friendship Centres and affiliated associations across Canada. These summer job opportunities will enable the participants to develop network contacts and begin to address the needs of urban Aboriginal communities.

Canada/Manitoba Business Service Centre
250 - 240 Graham Ave
P.O. Box 2609
Winnipeg, Manitoba  R3C 4B3
Canada
Telephone: 204-984-2272
Fax: 204-983-3852
Toll-free (information): 1-800-665-2019
TTY Toll-free (hearing impaired): 1-800-457-8466
TTY (hearing impaired): 1-800-457-8466
E-mail: manitoba@cbsc.ic.gc.ca
Web site: http://www.cbsc.org/manitoba
Hours of operation: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday to Friday

DISCLAIMER
Information contained in this document is of a general nature only and is not intended to constitute advice for any specific fact situation. Users concerned about the reliability of the information should consult directly with the source, or seek legal counsel.

Links Policy
Some of the hypertext links lead to non-federal government sites which are not subject to the Official Languages Act and the material is available in one language only.



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Canada Business Service Centres, 2005

Last Modified: 2006-07-21 Important Notices