The Government of Canada has renewed its commitment to strengthening Black-led organizations and supporting Black entrepreneurs across Atlantic Canada through a major funding boost to the Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP). With an additional national investment of $189 million over five years, the initiative aims to help Black business owners access capital, scale their enterprises, and overcome systemic barriers that have historically limited growth opportunities. As part of this renewed support, the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) will deliver $6.8 million to eligible organizations in the region, enabling them to expand services, mentorship, training programs, and other resources that help entrepreneurs start and grow successful businesses.
This investment aligns with the federal government’s broader economic strategy to build a stronger, more inclusive economy by empowering underrepresented communities. Strengthening Black-led non-profit organizations and improving access to financial tools and support systems ensures that Black entrepreneurs in Atlantic Canada can better pursue new opportunities, create jobs, and contribute to regional development. The funding also reinforces efforts to address longstanding systemic challenges faced by Black business owners, including limited access to financing and reliable data.
Canada’s Black Entrepreneurship Program continues to play a critical role in advancing economic equity. It provides financing, advisory services, and research to better understand the needs and opportunities within the Black entrepreneurship ecosystem. Since its launch, the BEP has supported over 24,000 Black entrepreneurs nationwide and approved more than 800 loans totaling over $70 million, helping transform innovative ideas into thriving businesses and strengthening communities across the country.
