Applications closed, monitoring for reopening
Applications are not open right now. Many programs like this reopen, so we re-check and update this page.
● Still available
4 other programs are open, with financing up to $150,000
- Starter Company PlusOntario's Small Business Enterprise Centres offer up to $5,000 plus training to people starting,…Grant · OntarioUp to $5,000
- BDC Financing: Start-upGet up to $150,000 in BDC financing to buy equipment, pay franchise fees, or launch marketing for your…Loan · Canada-wideUp to $150,000
- Retail Modernization Project Grant (RMPG)Get 50% back, up to $5,000, on modern store technology for your Ontario shop: POS, inventory tracking,…Grant · OntarioUp to $5,000
- Technology Equipment Loan (BDC)BDC's technology equipment loan is for businesses with at least 12 months of revenue that need…Loan · Canada-wide
Want to know the moment this reopens?
We re-check this program regularly. Leave your email and we'll tell you as soon as applications open again.
Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs (RAISE)
Get a one-time $10,000 non-repayable grant to grow your Ontario business, but note the portal is currently closed and reopening dates are unconfirmed. Applications are closed right now and we watch for reopening.
Before you spend any money
You must complete the training and coaching and get your Business Action Plan approved by the Province before the grant is disbursed.
At a glance
Subject to program rules, available funding, and approval. Confirm current details with the official program administrator.
Is this for you?
- You are an Indigenous, Black, or racialized entrepreneur running a business in Ontario.
- Your business generates under $750,000 in annual revenue and has 1 to 5 full-time equivalent employees, or up to 10 if you are in Accommodation and Food Services.
- You need funds for digital tools, professional services, marketing, or capital costs like POS systems and equipment.
Probably not the right fit if
- You operate a franchise, not-for-profit, charity, government agency, or property rental business.
- You only have a business idea, not an active business, or you have already received RAISE funding.
- Your business involves tobacco, firearms, or sexually exploitative activities.
How much you'd realistically get
A fixed one-time grant of $10,000.
What may be supported
- Professional services and expertise fees
- Marketing and communications
- Digital transformation including website, software, and digital marketing
- Travel tied to Business Action Plan objectives
- Capital costs such as POS systems, equipment, and tools
- Business supplies and materials
- Training and certifications
- Disability or accommodation support costs
What's excluded or restricted
- Businesses that previously participated in RAISE
- Early-development businesses with only a business idea
- Franchises
- Not-for-profits / charities / government agencies
- Tobacco/firearms businesses
- Sexually exploitative activities
- Property rental businesses
How applying works
Effort: moderateYou must complete the required training and coaching modules and develop a detailed Business Action Plan before applying for the funds.
- 01Verify you meet all eligibility criteria, including revenue caps and insurance requirements.
- 02Complete the required business-development training and culturally tailored coaching.
- 03Develop a Business Action Plan that outlines how you will use the funds for eligible expenses.
- 04Submit your application online via the TPON portal or via the fillable PDF alternative.
- 05Provide required documents including CRA registration, proof of insurance, and revenue details.
- 06Wait for approval and validation by the Government of Ontario before receiving the funds.
Who to ask: Email: raise@ontario.ca; Phone (toll-free): 1-888-975-5502
Documents commonly required
- Business registration documents
- Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) business number
- Proof of commercial general liability insurance (minimum $2,000,000)
- Revenue details and proof of Ontario residency or operations
What to know before you count on it
- The grant is taxable income, so ask your accountant how this affects your tax return.
- The program is selective and competitive, requiring validation of your Business Action Plan by the Government of Ontario.
- You must carry commercial general liability insurance of at least $2,000,000 to qualify.
- The most recent intake closed on October 30, 2024, and the next opening date is not yet confirmed.
What are your odds?
Selection is discretionary based on the validation of your Business Action Plan and adherence to eligibility criteria, with no guarantee of approval.
Frequently asked questions
Is the RAISE grant repayable?
No, it is a non-repayable grant, but it is considered taxable income.
When will the next intake open?
The official page does not give a reopening date. The last intake closed on October 30, 2024. Check the official page for updates.
Can I use the grant for staff salaries?
The program's published eligible costs cover professional services, marketing, digital transformation, travel, capital costs, supplies and training. Staff salaries are not on that list. Confirm with the program before counting on them.
Do I need to be registered with the CRA?
Yes, you must be registered with the Canada Revenue Agency and have a valid business number.
More funding by what it pays for
Funding for Online Ordering and Booking
Grants and loans may help pay for online ordering, booking and reservation systems.
Funding for E-commerce
Grants and loans to help you launch or improve your online store.
Funding for Retail POS
Grants and loans that may help pay for point-of-sale systems and other store technology.
What you can combine it with
You cannot stack this with previous RAISE participation, but it may complement other provincial or federal grants if you meet separate eligibility rules.
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.