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 a dollar
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.
Not sure if you qualify?
Get a free, 2-minute read on whether this program fits your business. No obligation.
Check your fit →Is this for you?
- You have been operating your Canadian business for at least 12 months and are generating revenue.
- You need capital for tangible growth drivers like 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 upgrading 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 funds (timing not stated).
Who to ask: 1-877-232-2269; or contact form at https://www.bdc.ca/en/contact-us/contact-us-form
Before you apply
Your lender will want to see what the money buys
A written quote for the project makes your application concrete and shows the lender exactly where the money goes. BBN Labs works with you on this: we prepare a quote for the work this program funds — scope, costs and timelines you can put straight into your application. Free, no obligation.
Get my quote for this program →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.
How BBN Labs helps
- BBN builds your professional website and online store, giving you a digital storefront that captures customers 24/7.
- BBN launches targeted digital marketing campaigns, driving immediate traffic to your new site and boosting early sales.
- BBN sets up your Local SEO and Google Business Profile so local customers find you when searching online.
- BBN designs your brand identity and print materials, creating a cohesive look that builds trust with new clients.
- We track deadlines so you submit on time and avoid missing this funding opportunity.
What to know before you count on it
- This is a debt obligation; 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.
- Disbursement timing is not stated; confirm how quickly funds are released after approval on the official page.
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 disbursement timing is not stated. Confirm the payment mechanics on the official BDC page.
Is this money taxable?
Loan proceeds are generally not taxable income, but interest payments may be tax-deductible. Consult a tax professional.
Related BBN services
Digital Menu Boards & Signage Systems
Managed menu screens with cloud updates, breakfast-to-dinner scheduling and a design service. A bare TV on the wall does none of that.
Loyalty Programs & CRM
Know your customers and bring them back: databases, loyalty mechanics, email/SMS and gift cards that fit your counter.
Online Ordering, Booking & Reservations
Ordering links that skip the big delivery-app fees, plus table reservations and appointment booking wired into your site and Google.
Local SEO & Google Business Profile
Show up when nearby customers search: accurate profiles, real local content and reviews handled honestly.
What you can combine it with
You can use this loan alongside other funding sources, but ensure your debt-to-income ratio remains healthy.
Related programs
Technology Equipment Loan (BDC)
Secure the capital you need for digital infrastructure, IT equipment, and cybersecurity upgrades.
Checked today
Canada Small Business Financing Program
Up to $1,150,000
This program makes it easier to get a business loan by having the government share the lending risk with your bank or credit union.
Checked today
BDC Financing — Small Business Loan
Up to $350,000
Access flexible online financing from Canada's federal Crown corporation bank. Use these funds to scale operations, hire staff, or upgrade equipment…
Checked today
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.
Record last updated ; last verified today with the official source. Source: official program page.