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Business Advice, Funding

NorthWest Territories Government Funding Checklist

Download the Northwest Territories Government Funding Checklist

The Northwest Territories Government Funding Checklist is an essential tool for entrepreneurs and small business owners in the Northwest Territories seeking funding through various Canadian government programs and options. This checklist simplifies the process, ensuring that you have all the necessary information and steps to secure funding for your business.

Northwest Territories Government Funding Checklist Details

In the Northwest Territories, where business opportunities are unique and diverse, securing funding can be a critical step in starting or expanding your business. The Canadian government offers a range of resources to support business growth, job creation, and the entrepreneurial spirit in this region.

However, navigating government funding processes can be complex. This checklist, specifically tailored for businesses in the Northwest Territories, focuses on four critical areas:

  1. Your Business Plan: Developing a comprehensive business plan that outlines your business model, market analysis, and financial projections.
  2. The Funding Needs: Clearly identifying the amount of funding required and for what specific purposes.
  3. Starting the Funding Search: Knowing where to look for appropriate funding opportunities within the Northwest Territories and across Canada.
  4. The Funding Applications: Understanding the application process, including documentation and eligibility criteria.

Despite seeming straightforward, many applicants face refusals due to overlooked details in these four areas. The checklist provides detailed guidance to help you navigate each step effectively, thereby increasing your chances of successfully obtaining funding.

Get Your Free Checklist

To start the funding process for your small business in the Northwest Territories, download the checklist for free. It offers clear, step-by-step guidance to ensure you meet all the requirements and avoid common pitfalls.

Download the Northwest Territories Government Funding Checklist [FREE]

This checklist is a valuable resource for any entrepreneur or small business owner in the Northwest Territories looking to leverage the financial resources offered by the Canadian government.

Download the Northwest Territories Government Funding Checklist

Business Advice, Funding

Completing your Business Plan in 20-minutes

As you start a business in Northwest Territories, one of the more challenging steps is creating a business plan.  What to write, how to write it, what to include and what not to include – it becomes more challenging the more you think about it.

We’ve created a 20 Minute Business Plan template for you. More so, a business plan canvas that you can get done in literally 20 minutes – in order to kick start your business, apply for funding and more.

Receive the Free Business Plan Here

The 20-Minute Business Plan

If this hits home for you, take comfort in knowing you are not alone and that there is still time. Time to layout your ideas for your business, to create a plan, to figure out how you will find the money to do it, and to start applying for those funds. It is not too late to accomplish your business goals for 2018.

But you do have to start now!

Need help getting in the ‘mood’…the entrepreneurial mood, that is! We’ve got you covered.

The Business Model Canvas is just the tool you need to get your small business gears a-grinding. We call it the 20-Minute Business Plan as it will get you thinking and considering all of the most important aspects of your business, its goals and how you intend to achieve them….without getting into all of the nitty-gritty details of a traditional Business Plan.

You can complete your entire canvas on a single page, in just 9 small sections that cover all the key aspects of any business: what the business offers, its team members, its customer-base, its partnerships and revenue streams.

The Business Model Canvas you create will provide focus on what’s driving the business; flexibility to modify and try different things; as well as transparency.

Download the Free Template Now

Download your very own Business Model Canvas and dedicate 20-minutes of your time to achieving your 2024 business goals. Follow the included instructions to properly complete each section of the canvas and reveal the next steps for your small business.

Already have a Business Model Canvas? Get one of our other helpful downloads below:
Small Business Funding Course
Fishing For Funds: A Startup Funding Checklist
Funding Program Fact-Sheet: The Northwest Territories Small Business Financing Program
Business Plan Essentials

Ready to start your Business Model Canvas? If you have any questions at any point, feel free to contact us to help you get through it. Good luck!

Funding

Can You Bag a Business Grant or Loan with Bad Credit?

An Exploration for Entrepreneurs in Northwest Territories

In the competitive world of business, a common stumbling block for aspiring entrepreneurs is a bad credit score. However, the dream of securing a grant or a loan is far from impossible, as Northwest Territories offers unique opportunities to help entrepreneurs overcome financial hurdles.

A bad credit score, which usually falls under 579 on a scale of 300-850, can limit access to resources and lead to higher loan fees and interest rates. But what if there is a viable business idea at stake? Can bad credit still hold back its potential?

When it comes to grants – free funds offered by government, corporate, or non-profit entities – a bad credit score might not be as significant a setback as perceived. Unlike loans, grants are awarded based on the merit of the business plan and its potential impact, not the entrepreneur’s financial history. While precise eligibility criteria may vary, a robust business plan and a clear demonstration of financial need can go a long way.

Northwest Territories hosts numerous regional and national grant programs. These initiatives are designed to support specific industries or demographics, and they often focus less on credit scores. Entrepreneurs are advised to tap into local business networks and use online grant databases to find the best fit for their venture.

However, the route to securing loans with a bad credit score is not as straightforward. Traditional lenders such as banks usually shy away from individuals with poor credit scores. One silver lining comes in the form of government-backed loan programs. These initiatives offer more lenient credit requirements and offer lower interest rates, which could provide a lifeline for businesses in their early stages.

Secured and collateral loans represent another option for those with low credit scores. These loans use assets as a guarantee, which can offer a safety net to lenders and increase the likelihood of loan approval.

While securing financing is crucial, it’s equally important for entrepreneurs to focus on improving their credit scores. Some practical strategies include reviewing credit reports for errors, making timely payments, reducing outstanding debts, and gradually building a positive credit history. Various credit counseling agencies and credit repair services in Northwest Territories are available to offer professional assistance.

However, for those who find the traditional funding path a tough climb, there are alternative routes to consider. Crowdfunding, partnerships, or seeking investment from friends and family are just a few options that don’t always hinge on a solid credit score.

Remember, in the realm of business, every hurdle can be turned into a stepping stone with the right approach. Despite a less-than-ideal credit score, entrepreneurs in Northwest Territories have the resources and opportunities at their disposal to turn their business dreams into reality. The road to success might be challenging, but it’s never entirely out of reach.

Take the first step towards success with our Small Business Startup Platform. Collaborate with our team of experts, utilize our powerful Business Plan Builder tool, and gain access to our Funding Database to secure government funding for your NWT-based business.

Funding

Is Government Funding a Windfall for Businesses in the Northwest Territories?

The buzz around government funding has been making the rounds in entrepreneurial circles in the Northwest Territories, Canada. Is it a blessing in disguise or merely a financial instrument cloaked in the term “free money”? This article demystifies the various aspects of government funding, highlighting the opportunities and responsibilities it carries for businesses.

Government funding can take various forms – grants, loans, or tax incentives, each with its specific characteristics. While grants are funds that need not be repaid, they come with strings attached, such as fulfilling specific criteria or obligations.

Take, for instance, A Yellowknife-based tech startup. The company secured a substantial government grant for its innovative environmental monitoring technology. But this financial boon also came with a set of conditions, such as meeting project milestones and submitting regular progress reports.

On the other hand, government loans, although they offer lower interest rates, are not “free money”. They require repayment over an agreed timeframe. Tax incentives, while they result in savings, are not direct funding.

The eligibility criteria for these funding sources are quite precise. They evaluate factors such as business size, location, industry type, and project objectives. These strict guidelines ensure that funds flow to businesses contributing to economic growth or aligning with the government’s strategic goals.

When asked about the funding application process, Jim Casblon, a financial advisor based in Yellowknife, emphasized that it’s a meticulous task requiring detailed documentation. “Government funding programs see a high influx of applications. To stand out, businesses need to follow instructions carefully and present a compelling and viable proposal,” says Casblon.

Competition aside, recipients of government funding must also uphold a high degree of accountability and transparency. The misappropriation of funds or failure to meet outlined obligations can result in stiff penalties.

Despite the rigorous process and responsibilities involved, the allure of government funding remains undeniable. According to recent data, approximately 40% of new startups in the Northwest Territories sought government funding in the past year, with 25% successfully securing it.

However, the financial advisor suggests not putting all your eggs in one basket. “Government funding is just one source among many. Exploring other avenues such as bank loans, venture capital, crowdfunding, or even personal savings can provide a more diverse financial foundation,” adds Casblon.

Overall, government funding, while a potentially significant resource, is far from free money. Businesses in the Northwest Territories looking to capitalize on it must fully comprehend the eligibility criteria, the application process, and the obligations that come with it. With this knowledge in hand, businesses can judiciously leverage government funding to realize their growth ambitions.

Funding

Female Entrepreneur Grants in Northwest Territories: Empowering Women in Business

In the vast expanse of Canada’s Northwest Territories (NWT), a growing number of women are shaping the entrepreneurial landscape. These trailblazing women are contributing significantly to the territory’s economy and communities, but like any business, they need financial support to flourish. This article explores various grant opportunities in the NWT for female entrepreneurs and how they foster women’s empowerment in the business sector.

Content Overview:

Understanding the Role of CanNor in Empowering Female Entrepreneurs

Embracing Opportunities with the SEED Program

The Power of the Women’s Entrepreneurship Fund

Advantages of Community Futures’ Loans for Women

Exploring the Potential of the BDIC Support for Entrepreneurs

Tapping into Industry-specific Grants and Funding

How NWT Startups Experts can Help

Now let’s dive deeper into each of these topics.

Introduction to NWT Grants for Female Entrepreneurs

There are numerous grants available in the NWT designed to support female entrepreneurs in various sectors. These grants aim to close the gender gap in business, encouraging more women to establish businesses and help those already operating to expand. Grants offer non-repayable funds, which can significantly lower the financial risk associated with starting and growing a business.

Understanding the Role of CanNor in Empowering Female Entrepreneurs

The Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor) plays a significant role in empowering female entrepreneurs in NWT. Through programs like the Northern Aboriginal Economic Opportunities Program (NAEOP) and the Women’s Entrepreneurship Strategy (WES), CanNor provides financial support for women-led businesses, particularly those owned by Indigenous women. These programs not only provide funding but also offer a variety of resources, training, and mentoring to ensure the success of these businesses.

Embracing Opportunities with the SEED Program

The Support for Entrepreneurs and Economic Development (SEED) Program, offered by the NWT’s Department of Industry, Tourism, and Investment, provides financial support to NWT residents looking to start or expand their businesses. While not exclusive to women, the program encourages applications from female entrepreneurs and offers several funding options based on the business type and stage.

The Power of the Women’s Entrepreneurship Fund

The Women’s Entrepreneurship Fund is a national initiative that offers up to $100,000 in non-repayable contribution funding to women-owned and led businesses. The program aims to support women entrepreneurs to grow their businesses and facilitate their pursuit of opportunities in markets abroad. Women in NWT are strongly encouraged to apply.

Advantages of Community Futures’ Loans for Women

While not a grant per se, the Community Futures’ loans program is worth mentioning. These loans offer lower-than-average interest rates and flexible repayment options, often making them more accessible for female entrepreneurs. Additionally, Community Futures provides business advice, workshops, and mentorship programs to help businesses succeed.

Exploring the Potential of the BDIC Support for Entrepreneurs

The Business Development and Investment Corporation (BDIC) in NWT offers several programs that can benefit female entrepreneurs. From the Subsidiary Financing program to the Business Intelligence and Networking program, BDIC provides financial and educational resources to help businesses thrive.

Tapping into Industry-specific Grants and Funding

Various industry-specific grants and funding options are also available for female entrepreneurs. Sectors such as tourism, agriculture, arts, and technology often have specific programs to promote growth and innovation. Female entrepreneurs in these sectors should explore these opportunities.

How NWT Startups Experts can Help

Finding and applying for the right grants can be a complex process. This is where NWT startup experts can assist. They can help identify suitable funding opportunities, assist with application processes, and provide advice on business growth strategies. These professionals have in-depth knowledge of the business environment and funding landscape in NWT, making them invaluable allies in your entrepreneurial journey.

The Future for Female Entrepreneurs in NWT

In conclusion, a range of funding options is available for female entrepreneurs in the Northwest Territories. Whether it’s through direct grants like those from Can Nor and the Women’s Entrepreneurship Fund, or indirect financial support through programs like the SEED Program or the BDIC’s initiatives, women have access to the financial resources they need to succeed.

Moreover, the assistance provided by NWT startup experts ensures that women not only secure funding but also receive the necessary support to make the most of these funds. They offer guidance, insights, and expertise to help navigate the complex business and funding landscapes in the NWT.

The future is bright for female entrepreneurs in the Northwest Territories. With these financial resources and professional support systems, women in business have the tools they need to succeed. It’s an exciting time as we witness more women taking their place in the entrepreneurial landscape, enriching the NWT’s economy and communities. This continued growth and empowerment of women in business is not just good for the Northwest Territories; it’s good for Canada and, indeed, the entire world.

Funding

How to Apply for Government Grants in Northwest Territories

It can be difficult to apply for government grants if you’ve never done it before.

However, there is no cause for alarm!

Here, you’ll find a step-by-step approach to securing the capital your company need for success.

To begin, you must determine which federal funding initiatives you qualify for.

If you own a business in Northwest Territories, you may qualify for one of the many grants and programs offered by the provincial government.

Spend some time researching the many business grants and programs offered by the provincial government of Northwest Territories to determine which ones are the greatest fit for your company’s needs.

Examples of popular sources of financing are:

Government Grants:

Money from the government is given to private companies, nonprofits, and individuals to assist them meet a specific need.

Research and development, extending into new markets, and product creation are all examples of such aims.

Applicants for government grants are usually evaluated on the basis of their demonstrated merit, or ability to benefit from the grant money.

The various grant categories are as follows:

Non repayable government grants are one of the most common types of grants available.

These grants are given to businesses or individuals without the expectation of repayment, meaning that you don’t have to pay the money back once you receive it.

There are a few different types of non repayable government grants, including:

Grants for small businesses:

Government grants are available to help new and existing small enterprises get off the ground.
These funds can be put toward a number of different endeavors, including the acquisition of new tools or the hire of additional staff.

Grants for research and development: Grants for research and development are offered to businesses that are looking to conduct innovative research and develop new products or services.

This type of grant can be used to cover the costs of conducting research, such as hiring consultants or purchasing lab equipment.

Grants for women entrepreneurs: Women business owners can apply for grants to help them get started or expand their businesses. These grants can be put toward a wide range of activities, including but not limited to the following: establishing a new company, increasing production capacity, or traveling to and participating in professional development seminars for business owners.

Grants for Indigenous entrepreneurs: Natives, Inuit, and Métis business owners who are just getting started or looking to expand their operations can apply for one of many available grants for Indigenous entrepreneurs. These grants can be put toward a wide range of activities, including but not limited to the following: establishing a new company, increasing production capacity, or traveling to and participating in professional development seminars for business owners.

In addition to these, there are startup grants, business expansion grants and skills training grants.

One time and renewable government grants are another type of grant that is available.

One time grants are typically awarded for a specific project or purpose, and are not renewable once they have been used up.

On the other hand, renewable grants are ongoing and can be used for a variety of purposes over an extended period of time.

The most common type of renewable grant is a operating grant, which is given to businesses on an annual basis to help cover the costs of running their business.

Partial contribution grants are another type of grant that is available.

Partial contribution grants are typically given to businesses or individuals who are unable to fully cover the costs of a project on their own.

The Northwest Territories government will partially fund the project, and the business or individual will be responsible for covering the rest of the costs.

Matching grants are another type of grant that is available.

Matching grants are typically given to businesses or individuals who are able to raise a certain amount of money on their own.

The Northwest Territories government will then match the funds that have been raised, and the business or individual will be responsible for covering the rest of the costs.

Government Loans

Loans from the government are essentially loans from the government to private companies or people.

These loans are preferred by businesses because their interest rates are cheaper than those offered by banks.

Several distinct varieties of federal loans exist, including:

Loans for small businesses: these financing options exist to help established enterprises with limited resources grow. New machinery or personnel are only two examples of how these loans might be put to good use.

Startup loans: Lending assistance is available for new firms in the form of startup loans.
Loans of this type might be put for things like business permits and first advertising costs.

Business expansion loans: Loans for business expansion are available for companies who want to grow their operations. These loans can be used to pay for everything from the lease on a larger office to the salaries of new employees.

Skills training loans: Skills training loans are offered to businesses that are looking to provide training for their employees. These loans can be used to cover the costs of training, such as hiring instructors or purchasing educational materials.

In addition to these, there are also loans for specific business sectors, such as agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing.

Remember that government loans can often come in the form of no interest, or low-interest options, as well as government-guaranteed loans.

Government loan programs typically have more flexible eligibility requirements than traditional bank loans, making them a more accessible option for businesses.

The next step

After determining which government funding options are right for, be it a government grant or a government loan it’s time to start preparing your application.

The most important part of your application will be your business plan.

This is your opportunity to sell the government on why your business is worth investing in. Make sure to include detailed information on your business model, target market, and financial projections. If you have any existing customers or clients, be sure to mention them as well!

A good tool to use to develop your business plan is the business plan builder tool. It is created to guide you step by step based on what Northwest Territories government funding agencies want to see.

Once you’ve assembled all of the required documentation, it’s time to submit your application.

The best way to do this is online, through the government’s official website. You’ll need to create an account and fill out all of the necessary information before you can submit your application.

As each funding program/application may have a different application method – be sure to work with an expert to get help with the process.

Applying for government grants can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be! By following this simple guide, you’ll be well on your way to getting the funding your business needs to grow and succeed. good luck!

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