The Canadian Youth Business Foundation’s (CYBF) Start-up Program

provides support for Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada who are between 18 and 39 years old and who need help to get their business off the ground. Through the CYBF, these entrepreneurs may be eligible to receive up to $48,000 to launch their business. CYBF can provide up to $15,000 in start-up financing and help obtain up to another $30,000 from the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC). In addition to coaching and resources to help you create a winning business plan, CYBF also provides mentorship and post-launch services to position you and your business for long-term success. CYBF also provides similar help with taking over an existing business. Complete details of the program can be found through the CYBF & BDC Start-Up Financing Program.

Alberta Multimedia Development Fund

offers grant programs to provide wider access to the cultural industries, increase their capacity, and enhance their excellence. Screen-based media production, book publishing, magazine publishing, and sound recording are eligible for grants under the program. The grant programming is divided into two main areas—Cultural Industry (book publishing, magazine publishing, and sound recording), and Screen-based Publishing. You can consult program guidelines for program eligibility, or contact the Alberta Foundation for the arts at 780-427-9968.

Alberta Innovation Vouchers

helps small early-stage technology and knowledge-driven businesses in Alberta get their ideas and products to market faster. Pre- or low-revenue Alberta companies that are in the concept and formation stages of their business can apply for vouchers of from $15,000 to $50,000 for use with a service provider for business and technology development services. Application forms and guidelines can be found through the Alberta Innovation Vouchers program.