Administered by Government of Alberta · Last verified: July 2026
The Indian Business Corporation is an Aboriginal Financial Institution that provides developmental lending to First Nations businesses and individuals across Treaty 6, 7, and 8 in Alberta and western Canada. It finances ventures in agriculture, transportation, hospitality, services, and other sectors where commercial credit is hard to obtain. Loans average about $70,000 and range up to $1,000,000. Its purpose is to give First Nations entrepreneurs access to capital.
Review times vary by program, from a few weeks to a few months, so check the official page for its timeline. Grant money is usually paid after you sign a funding agreement, and cost-shared programs often reimburse you once you send proof of what you spent.
Take the 3-minute quiz to find out, and see every other Canadian program you qualify for at the same time.
Check my eligibilityIndian Business Corporation Developmental Loans (Alberta) is generally open to incorporated, self-employed, partnership businesses, in Alberta. Confirm the full criteria on the official program page before applying.
The estimated value is Loans averaging $70,000, up to $1,000,000. The actual amount depends on your eligible costs, the program's budget, and approval.
1. Confirm First Nations identity and an eligible business 2. Contact an Indian Business Corporation lending officer 3. Prepare your business plan and budget 4. Submit the loan application 5. Combine with other financing if needed
Continuous intake.
Typically $1 million to $10 million per project, depending on scope
INCENTIVEUp to $75 per square foot of converted office space
INCENTIVELoans up to approximately $1,000,000 (average around $70,000)