March 2026 | Economic Empowerment | Black Entrepreneurship
During Black History Month, the Government of Canada reaffirmed its commitment to advancing economic inclusion through continued investments in the Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP), a national initiative that has supported more than 24,000 Black entrepreneurs since 2021.
As a previous fund recipient, the Federation of Black Canadians (FBC) has played a critical role in strengthening this initiative by supporting Black-led organizations, increasing access to resources, and advocating for equitable economic opportunities for Black entrepreneurs across the country. This renewed federal investment of $189 million represents a continued commitment to addressing systemic barriers and building a stronger, more inclusive Canadian economy.
Key Highlights
Over 24,000 Black Entrepreneurs Supported
The Black Entrepreneurship Program has provided mentorship, training, and financing to more than 24,000 Black entrepreneurs nationwide, enabling business owners to launch new ventures, grow their operations, and expand into new markets.
Through its national network and partnerships, the Federation of Black Canadians has contributed to strengthening this ecosystem by supporting community-based organizations that deliver business development services, mentorship, and capacity-building opportunities to Black entrepreneurs.
$70 Million in Financing Approved
Through the Black Entrepreneurship Loan Fund, more than $70 million in financing has been approved across over 800 loans, helping Black-owned businesses overcome historic barriers to accessing capital.
Access to funding remains one of the most significant challenges facing Black entrepreneurs. The Federation of Black Canadians has played an important role in advocating for equitable access to capital and ensuring that Black entrepreneurs are connected to funding opportunities and financial support programs.
$189 Million Federal Investment Renewed
The federal government’s renewed $189 million investment ensures continued support for Black entrepreneurs and reinforces the importance of long-term economic inclusion strategies.
The Federation of Black Canadians continues to work closely with partners across the country to strengthen the Black entrepreneurship ecosystem by:
- Supporting Black-led organizations that deliver entrepreneurship programming
- Amplifying the voices and needs of Black entrepreneurs at the national level
- Promoting access to mentorship, funding, and training opportunities
- Advocating for policies that advance economic equity and inclusion
What Next?
For Black Serving Organizations:
Join our Black Builders Network to join a community of like minded groups to gain resources on how to grow your capacity, develop programming and attain sustainable funding.
Learn more about the Black Innovation Zone and how you can leverage the black community to get your entrepreneurs access to Networking, pitch competitions, major visibility and more!
For Black Entrepreneurs
Take our free on demand version of our previous Black Entrepreneurship Program with more news to come on future pitch competitions and mentorship! Or Join our Black Builders Network to get the last info on funding opportunities and free tickets to networking events.
Building a Stronger, More Inclusive Economic Future
Black entrepreneurs continue to play a vital role in driving innovation, creating jobs, and strengthening Canada’s economy. Investments through the Black Entrepreneurship Program, combined with the leadership and advocacy of organizations like the Federation of Black Canadians, are helping to create more equitable pathways to economic success.
The Federation of Black Canadians remains committed to advancing economic empowerment and ensuring Black entrepreneurs across Canada have the resources, opportunities, and support they need to succeed.
