BDC Financing: Start-up
Get up to $150,000 in BDC financing to buy equipment, pay franchise fees, or launch marketing for your established Canadian business. This is a repayable loan with flexible terms like interest-only payments for the first 12 months.
“Get up to $150,000 to get your business moving and turn your dreams into reality.”
From the official program page
Before you spend any money
This is a loan, not a grant; you must repay the principal plus interest over time.
At a glance
Subject to program rules, available funding, and approval. Confirm current details with the official program administrator.
Is this for you?
- You have been operating your Canadian business for at least 12 months and are generating revenue.
- You need money for equipment, franchise fees, or marketing campaigns.
- You have a solid credit history and are ready to manage a repayment schedule.
Probably not the right fit if
- You are a brand new startup with less than 12 months of operating history.
- You are not currently generating revenue or have a poor credit history.
- You are looking for a grant or non-repayable funding since this is a loan that must be repaid.
How much you'd realistically get
Up to $150,000, depending on your business size and credit profile.
What may be supported
- Purchasing equipment or assets.
- Paying franchise fees.
- Investing in marketing campaigns.
- Creating or improving a website.
- Hiring consultants for business growth.
How applying works
Effort: moderateYou must submit a loan request online and speak with a BDC representative to get a tailored solution.
- 01Submit a loan request online via the BDC website.
- 02Talk to a BDC representative to discuss your needs.
- 03Provide required financial documents and business details.
- 04Receive a tailored loan solution and terms.
- 05Sign the agreement and receive the funds.
Who to ask: 1-877-232-2269; or contact form at https://www.bdc.ca/en/contact-us/contact-us-form
Documents commonly required
- Proof of business registration and 12+ months of operation.
- Financial statements showing current revenue.
- Credit history or personal/business credit report.
- Details of the assets or projects you intend to fund.
What to know before you count on it
- This is a loan, not a grant; you must repay the full amount plus interest.
- Interest rates and specific fees are not published; confirm exact terms on the official BDC page.
- You must have at least 12 months of business history and current revenue to qualify.
- The official page does not say how quickly the money is paid out after approval. Ask BDC before you apply.
What are your odds?
Approval depends on your credit history, revenue, and business plan; BDC is a lender, not a grantor.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use this loan for a brand new business idea?
No. You must have been in business for at least 12 months and be currently generating revenue.
What is the interest rate?
The interest rate is not published. Confirm the current rate and terms on the official BDC page.
How quickly do I get the money?
The official page does not say how quickly the money is paid out. Ask BDC before you apply.
Is this money taxable?
Loan proceeds are generally not taxable income, but interest payments may be tax-deductible. Consult a tax professional.
More funding by what it pays for
What you can combine it with
You can use this loan with other funding, but make sure your business can afford all the repayments.
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Worth reading before you apply
Get alerted when this changes
Programs open and close, budgets run out, rules change. We send one short email when something changes that matters for this program.
Page last updated ; status and deadline checked . Source: official program page.