Status Entrepreneur Assistance Program
Access to Grant Funding
SEAP provides financial support to help you start, expand, or acquire your business in Alberta, giving you the equity strength & grant support you need to make your business goals achievable.
One-on-One Support
Our Grant Manager will work with you step-by-step to prepare your grant application and to understand how SEAP can work alongside AIIC loans and your own equity.
Business Plan Grant
Applicants can receive grant funding to offset the cost of professional business planning services from Winfire Business Services.
After-Care Grant
Coverage for aftercare services through Winfire Business Services , offering continued mentorship, financial management support, and business advisory assistance to ensure long-term success after receiving funding.
STRENGTHENING INDIGENOUS ENTREPRENEURSHIP ACROSS ALBERTA
The Status Entrepreneurs’ Assistance Program (SEAP) is a grant-based program that provides non-repayable equity support to help Status entrepreneurs launch, acquire, or expand their businesses.
By combining SEAP grant funding with your personal contribution and AIIC financing, you can reduce debt, strengthen ownership, and achieve sustainable business growth.
A GRANT DESIGNED TO EMPOWER ENTREPRENEURS
The SEAP grant was created to help Status entrepreneurs overcome one of the biggest barriers to business success—access to equity.
This non-repayable contribution acts as equity assistance, giving you a stronger foundation when applying for loans or building your own capital.
Through SEAP, you can access up to $99,999 in grant funding to invest in eligible business expenses and start your venture with confidence.
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Total project budget is determined (eligible costs).
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You contribute ~10% cash equity.
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SEAP grant covers up to 30% - 40% (max $99,999).
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An AIIC loan typically covers the remaining ~60%. (Grant is not stand-alone; loan + equity required.)
☐ You are a Status entrepreneur. (Proof of Aboriginal ancestry required.)
☐ You live in Alberta for at least 12 months, and the business operates in Alberta.
☐ You have 12 months of relevant industry experience. The project is a start-up or expansion or acquisition.
☐ The business is viable/sustainable and can generate at least $20,000 annual income for the owner.
☐ Majority Indigenous ownership and control (over 50%).
☐ You can provide cash equity & secure commercial financing for the remaining costs
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Non-repayable contribution to lower your borrowing and improve affordability.
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Flexible financing approach that blends your equity, SEAP grant, and AIIC lending.
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Business guidance from AIIC’s team throughout the process.
- Grant amount: up to 30% for expansions & up to 40% for start-ups of total eligible project costs (maximum $99,999).
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Funding mix: 10% applicant cash equity + ~30% SEAP grant + ~60% AIIC loan (grant is not stand-alone).
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Who it’s for: Status entrepreneurs starting or expanding an Alberta-based business.
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Separate applications: You’ll submit a grant application and an AIIC loan application.
SEAP Recipients
Business Planning & Aftercare Support
Through the Status Entrepreneurs’ Assistance Program (SEAP), applicants can receive grant funding to offset the cost of professional business planning services from Winfire Business Services.
This support helps entrepreneurs prepare comprehensive, lender-ready business plans and cash flow projections that align with SEAP and AIIC requirements—strengthening overall applications and improving funding success.
Once financing is approved, SEAP can also contribute toward aftercare services through Winfire Business Services, offering continued mentorship, financial management support, and business advisory assistance to ensure long-term success after receiving funding.
From planning to growth, SEAP ensures entrepreneurs have the professional guidance they need every step of the way.
PROGRAM CONTACT
ROXANNA HILCTON
SEAP Manager
Alberta Indian Investment Corporation (AIIC)
#103, 21553 Chief Lapotac Blvd, Enoch, AB
PO Box 790, Enoch, AB T7X 3Y3
Phone: 780-470-3600
Toll-Free: 1-888-308-6789
EMAIL: roxannabhilcton@aiicbusiness.org
