Canada Small Business Financing Program

    $25,000–$1,000,000ContributionFederalInnovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

    Government-backed loan guarantee program that makes it easier for small businesses to access financing from banks and credit unions. The government guarantees up to 85% of the loan, reducing lender risk. Covers equipment, leasehold improvements, and (since 2022) intangible assets and working capital.

    Deadlines

    • Intake type: Rolling — apply any time
    • Typical processing time: 2–6 weeks

    What you'll need

    • Revenue Under $10M

      Annual revenue must be under $10 million to qualify

    • Business Plan & Financials

      Business plan with financial statements or projections for lender review

    • Approach a Participating Lender

      Apply through any bank, credit union, or caisse populaire participating in CSBFP

    • Define Loan Purpose

      Equipment, leasehold improvements, intangible assets, or working capital — document the intended use

    Why applications get rejected

    1. Loan purpose is working capital or goodwill — both are explicitly excluded from the program
    2. Business annual revenue exceeds $10 million, which is above the program eligibility ceiling
    3. Loan structured as an operating line of credit rather than financing a specific asset or improvement

    Effort to apply

    • Difficulty: 2 of 5
    • Estimated time: 10–20 hrs (bank handles most of the process)
    Check if you qualify — 3 minutes

    Official program page · Details verified May 15, 2026

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