Resources
Tools to Support Indigenous Investment
AIOC Produced Resources
AIOC Loan Guarantee Program Self-Assessment
Complete this questionnaire to determine if you meet initial eligibility requirements before proceeding.
AIOC Capacity Grant Overview Document
Overview of the Capacity Grant program.
AIOC Capacity Grant Application Form
Complete this form to apply for capacity funding on a project eligible for an AIOC loan guarantee.
Roles and Responsibilities Guideline
Review a complete overview of the loan guarantee process.
External Resources
AIOC may not be a fit for all projects. If you wish to explore funding for an initiative and your project is not a fit under our mandate, please consider some external resources. Note – AIOC is not responsible for the content or accuracy shared below:
Funding & Financing for Large Projects
Support for Indigenous Nations and groups, and Nation- or community-owned business entities advancing major economic development and clean energy projects.
Aboriginal Business Investment Fund (ABIF)
Provides capital funding for Indigenous community-owned businesses to advance large-scale economic development projects that generate long-term community benefits.
Alberta Indigenous Clean Energy Initiative (AICEI)
Supports Indigenous-led clean energy projects across Alberta, including renewable generation, energy-efficiency initiatives, and capacity development related to clean energy planning.
Canadian Indigenous Loan Guarantee Corporation (CILGC)
Federal program offering project-based funding to support the early planning, development, and implementation of Indigenous community economic development initiatives.
Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways Program (SREPs)
Provides funding for renewable energy and grid modernization projects, including streams dedicated to Indigenous-led initiatives and community energy planning.
Prairies Canada – Tourism Growth Program (TGP)
Invests in tourism infrastructure and business development, including Indigenous tourism initiatives that strengthen local economies and visitor experiences.
CIB & First Nations Bank of Canada (FNBC) Partnership Lending Program
A partnership model that blends CIB financing with FNBC lending tools to support Indigenous equity ownership in major infrastructure projects. Recently demonstrated through Indigenous participation in solar and renewable energy projects.
Supports for Indigenous Entrepreneurs
Programs below are designed for private Indigenous-owned businesses. AIOC loan guarantees are exclusively for Indigenous Nations and groups, and Nation- or community-owned entities, but these resources can support individuals seeking business development, training, or financing.
Business Link – Indigenous Entrepreneur Services
Provides one-on-one coaching, business planning tools, training, and navigation supports tailored to Indigenous entrepreneurs across Alberta.
Alberta Indian Investment Corporation (AIIC)
Offers loans, grants, and business supports to Indigenous entrepreneurs, with a focus on fostering long-term economic participation and business sustainability.
National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA)
A national network of Indigenous Financial Institutions that provides loans, entrepreneurship programs, and training for Indigenous business owners.
Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) – Indigenous Entrepreneur Loan
Financing solutions designed for Indigenous entrepreneurs to support start-up costs, business expansion, or operational needs.
First Nations Bank of Canada (FNBC) – Small Business Financing
Small business credit products tailored to Indigenous entrepreneurs and enterprises, offered through a bank that is majority Indigenous-owned and governed.
BMO Indigenous Banking
Provides business financing, advisory services, and banking solutions for Indigenous entrepreneurs and Indigenous businesses.
ATB – Canada Small Business Financing Program Loan
Financing available to Alberta entrepreneurs for starting, expanding, or improving small businesses, including Indigenous-owned businesses.
Federal Multi-Program Resource Hub
Indigenous Services Canada – Economic Development Programs
A centralized list of federal programs supporting Indigenous Nations, groups, and individuals in areas including economic development, entrepreneurship, business planning, community infrastructure, and skills training.