Question 1

What is CEDF Business Loans (Communities Economic Development Fund (CEDF) Business Loans Program) and who is it for?

Accepted Answer

Flexible, repayable business loans from the Communities Economic Development Fund (a Manitoba Crown corporation, operating as Look North) for northern and Indigenous enterprises where traditional financing may be limited. Up to $2 million in financing, with no minimum amount, for launching or expanding a venture. Relaunched April 2023; supports Indigenous partnerships, infrastructure, natural-resource industries (mining, forestry, commercial fishing), local business growth, and supply-chain/service providers. Typical applicant: A northern Manitoba or Indigenous-owned business (corporation, partnership or sole proprietor) needing repayable financing that a conventional lender may not provide

Question 2

Who qualifies for CEDF Business Loans?

Accepted Answer

Any Indigenous entity or partnership that promotes and/or enhances Indigenous economic development outside the City of Winnipeg, OR a business operating north of Manitoba's 21st township Corporation, limited or general partnership, or sole proprietor Up to $2 million in financing; no minimum amount required Eligible projects: Indigenous partnerships/joint ventures, infrastructure, natural-resource industries, local business growth, supply chain and service providers Repayable loan (not a grant); a separate Commercial Fishing Loans Program exists for that sector

Question 3

Is CEDF Business Loans currently open for applications?

Accepted Answer

Repayable loan from a provincial Crown corporation (CEDF / Look North), not a grant. Even businesses that don't meet every criterion are encouraged to apply — CEDF will refer to a partner lender if it isn't the right fit.