Administered by Government of Canada · Last verified: July 2026
The Inclusive Workplace and Supply Council of Canada is the national body that certifies veteran-owned businesses as diverse suppliers. Certification signals to corporate and public-sector buyers running supplier diversity programs that your business is at least 51 percent owned, operated, and controlled by veterans, which can open procurement doors that are otherwise hard to reach. It is a structural advantage rather than cash, and it costs a flat fee. A veteran here means any former CAF member who completed basic training and was honourably discharged.
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 eligibilityIWSCC Veteran-Owned Business Certification is generally open to incorporated, self-employed, partnership businesses, in any province or territory. Confirm the full criteria on the official program page before applying.
The estimated value is Certification costs $500 per year; opens access to corporate and government supplier diversity procurement. The actual amount depends on your eligible costs, the program's budget, and approval.
1. Confirm your business is 51 percent or more veteran-owned and operated 2. Gather ownership, registration, and veteran-status documents 3. Complete the online application through the IWSCC portal 4. Once certified, list your business and connect with IWSCC corporate member buyers