Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP) Ecosystem Fund
The Ecosystem Fund is a key component of the Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP), a national initiative to break down barriers and create opportunities for Black entrepreneurs. It strengthens the Black entrepreneurship ecosystem by supporting Black-led, not-for-profit organizations to deliver high-impact business services from mentorship and networking to training, outreach and capacity building.
The Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor) is delivering up to $1.2 million over four years, starting in 2026-2027, to support organizations in Nunavut, the Northwest Territories and the Yukon to help Black entrepreneurs access the resources they need to start, grow and succeed.
Who can apply?
Eligible recipients under the Ecosystem Fund are incorporated Black-led not-for-profit organizations that:
- have at least two-thirds of leadership and governance self-identify as Black;
- focus their mission, programming, and outcomes on supporting Black communities; and
- have the capacity and experience to deliver high-impact business support.
What types of activities are eligible for funding?
Eligible activities include, but are not limited to:
- incubator and accelerator programs;
- networking, matchmaking and mentorship opportunities;
- community outreach and capacity-building;
- initiatives to support the participation of the Black community in entrepreneurship; and
- other activities that support the objectives of the BEP Ecosystem Fund.
How to apply?
For more information on this program, contact operations@cannor.gc.ca or reach out to your CanNor Regional Office.