The Canada Small Business Financing (CSBF) Act was enacted in April 1999 to capitalize on its predecessor's success, known as Small Business Loans Act. The CSBF's objectives are to:
All profit oriented small businesses in Canada with gross annual revenues of $5 million or less are eligible for the CSBF. Farming ventures, non-profit organizations, charitable and religious organizations are not eligible for this loan program. A business is assured of loans up to $500,000 but not more than $350,000 can be spent for improving property or purchasing equipment.
Approach various financial institutions with a well thought out business plan and supporting documentation is the first step. Then, it is important to discuss your business requirements with a loan executive at any bank, caisse populaire, or credit union in Canada.
The executive will make a decision of your loan application after a thorough review of your business proposal. Once the decision is made in your favor under the program, the financial institution will register the loan with Industry Canada.
Small business loan program sources in Canada also include:
· Market Expansion Financing: You can get up to $50,000 in long term financing from the Business Development Bank of Canada to develop and expand inventory, implement expansion plans.
· Co-Vision Start-Up Financing Program: You can secure up to $100,000 from the Business Development Bank of Canada to finance your start-up. Use it as working capital to acquire various assets.
· Micro Loans: When traditional sources are unavailable, apply to a credit union or any financial institution and check if they have a micro loan program. Under this program, you can get up to $15,000.
· Community Loan Funds: Community loan funds are given by non-profit institutions, up to $150,000 as business loans. Community loan funds are spread all across Canada.