RAISE Grant Program is sponsored by Government of Ontario. RAISE Grant Program is a grant from the Government of Ontario that provides $10,000 to racialized and Indigenous entrepreneurs in Ontario through the Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs program.

Apply Now: Ontario’s RAISE Grant Program Offers $10,000 for Racialized and Indigenous Entrepreneurs - Norbram Group Insurance Benefits Apply Now: Ontario’s RAISE Grant Program Offers $10,000 for Racialized and Indigenous Entrepreneurs Ontario’s small business owners have a powerful new opportunity for growth and support through the Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs (RAISE) Grant Program .

Designed for Indigenous, Black, and other racialized entrepreneurs, this program provides not just funding, but also coaching, training, and networking to help business owners strengthen and scale their operations. Applications are open now and must be submitted by October 1, 2025 at 5:00 p. m.

EST . Because applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis , entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply early. 👉 Learn more and apply via Transfer Payment Ontario (TPON) What the RAISE Grant Provides Successful applicants will receive: Business development training to sharpen skills and strategy.

Culturally responsive business coaching tailored to the unique experiences of racialized and Indigenous entrepreneurs. Networking opportunities with peers and industry experts. A one-time grant of $10,000 to invest directly in their business.

To receive the grant payment, participants must complete the training, coaching, networking, and a Business Action Plan that is reviewed and validated by the Government of Ontario. To qualify for the RAISE program, businesses must: Be registered with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) . Employ 1–5 full-time equivalent employees (or up to 10 in the Accommodation and Food Services sector).

Operate in Ontario as of September 10, 2025. Have annual gross revenue under $750,000 . Be actively in the market with sales/revenue (not just an idea stage).

Carry commercial general liability insurance with coverage of at least $2,000,000. Be owned by an Indigenous, Black, or other racialized entrepreneur (self-identification required). Be at least 18 years of age and legally permitted to operate a business in Canada.

Applicants must also commit to completing training, networking, and a Business Action Plan (minimum 10 hours). Some businesses and applicants cannot apply. These include: Businesses that previously participated in the RAISE program.

Early development businesses (ideas not yet registered with CRA). Mature businesses planning for exit or sale. Franchises, not-for-profits, charities, or government-affiliated organizations.

Businesses involved in illegal, harmful, or exploitive activities. Property rental businesses, financial services companies, cryptocurrency traders, or investment brokers. Businesses that raise investment capital for others or have shares offered publicly.

A full list of ineligible businesses is available in the RAISE Application Guide . Grant funds must be used between March 9, 2026 and September 9, 2026 and tied to the approved Business Action Plan. Eligible expenses include: Professional third-party services (e.g., marketing agency, web design, photography).

Marketing and communications (signage, advertising, promotional materials). Digital transformation (websites, software, e-commerce tools). Small equipment, tools, or point-of-sale (POS) systems.

Knowledge development (training, certifications, conferences, tradeshows). Travel directly related to Business Action Plan objectives. Costs related to disability or accommodation supports.

Ineligible expenses include: Wages, salaries, or owner payments. Rent, utilities, and general operating costs. Inventory and generic electronics (with limited exceptions).

Land, buildings, or vehicle purchases. Hospitality, entertainment, or membership fees. Applications must be submitted through the Transfer Payment Ontario (TPON) portal.

Select the “RAISE” program card to begin the application. Fill out the required information and save drafts as needed. Submit once all information and documentation are complete.

Applicants will need to provide business registration documents, CRA number, proof of insurance, revenue details, and proof of Ontario residency/operations. Application deadline: October 1, 2025 at 5:00 p. m.

EST. Notification: All applicants will be informed in November 2025 whether they were approved. Grant distribution: Approved businesses that complete training, coaching, and their Business Action Plan will receive payment in February–March 2026 .

Reporting: Recipients must submit a final report by September 9, 2026 , showing how the grant was spent and its impact on their business. For many entrepreneurs, access to funding, training, and coaching can be the difference between struggling to stay afloat and scaling to the next level.

The RAISE Grant Program is designed not just as a financial boost but as a comprehensive support system to help racialized and Indigenous entrepreneurs build stronger, more sustainable businesses. If you’re an Indigenous, Black, or racialized entrepreneur in Ontario with a registered small business, don’t miss this opportunity.

👉 Click here to learn more and apply to the RAISE Grant Program Apply early—applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis until capacity is reached. Looking for Group Benefits? Request a Quote Today Get a customized group benefits plan tailored to your business, team size, and budget.

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