ABOUT THE PROGRAM
First Nations women are entrepreneurs, innovators and leaders who contribute to the strength of our communities and economies.
The Province of Manitoba’s Mino’Ayaawag Ikwewag First Nations Women’s Entrepreneurship Grant Program in partnership with Treaty One helps address barriers to accessing business capital and supports opportunities for economic growth.
Through financial assistance and access to business development supports, the program aims to help First Nations women build sustainable businesses and create opportunities for themselves, their families and their communities.
FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
The program offers grants of up to $50,000, based on eligible business needs and project requirements.
Grants of $15,000 or Less
Designed for smaller-scale business projects, including:
Inventory and supplies
Business equipment
Startup expenses
Software and technology
Website development
Eligible legal expenses
Grants Over $15,000 to $50,000
Designed for larger business investments, including:
Major equipment and asset purchases
Business expansion
Storefront or workspace renovations
Larger-scale business development projects
All funding is subject to program eligibility, assessment and approval.
WHO CAN APPLY?
The program is open to First Nations women entrepreneurs across Manitoba.
To be eligible, applicants must:
Be 18 years of age or older.
Be a resident of Manitoba.
Be a member of a Manitoba First Nation.
Self-identify as a First Nations woman.
Provide a Status card or a letter from their Nation confirming membership.
Own a registered, for-profit business that is 100% First Nations women-owned.
Be pursuing an eligible business project or activity.
Consent to a credit check and not be in active bankruptcy or currently under collections.
Sole proprietors and eligible partnerships may apply.
One grant may be awarded per individual business owner.
Additional program criteria apply.
HOW TO APPLY
Follow these steps to begin the application process.
1. Complete the Intake Form
Submit the online intake form to begin the eligibility screening process.
2. Connect With the Program Team
A program representative will follow up to discuss your business, proposed project and funding needs.
3. Submit Your Documents
Applicants will be asked to provide supporting documents, including proof of First Nation membership, proof of business ownership and registration, and quotes or estimates for proposed purchases or projects.
4. Application Review
Completed applications are reviewed against program criteria and available funding.
5. Funding Agreement
Approved applicants will complete a funding agreement before receiving grant funding.
QUESTIONS OR NEED MORE INFORMATION?
Contact the program team for additional information about eligibility, funding opportunities and the application process.
Email: infomai@treaty1.ca
Phone: (431) 866-4696
