Announcing the New Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurs (IYE) Program
Announcing the New Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurs (IYE) Program
We are excited to launch the Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurs (IYE) Program, a groundbreaking initiative that empowers young Indigenous entrepreneurs in Alberta to start, grow, and succeed in business.
Delivered locally through the Alberta Indian Investment Corporation (AIIC) and funded by NACCA, the IYE Program is designed to break down barriers and provide the support, capital, and training Indigenous youth need to thrive.
Why the IYE Program Matters
Many young Indigenous entrepreneurs face unique challenges: limited access to capital, few mentorship opportunities, and complicated application processes. The IYE Program is here to change that.
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Access to Financing — Up to $25,000 available in a mix of loans and grants.
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One-on-One Support — Dedicated Business Services Officers guide you through every step.
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Skills & Training — Hands-on workshops, business planning, and financial literacy training.
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Connections & Networks — Build relationships with mentors, peers, and industry leaders.
This program is about more than funding—it’s about building confidence, capacity, and long-term success.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for the IYE Program, you must:
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Be 18–39 years old
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Be a Status First Nation member residing in Alberta for at least one year
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Hold 51% or more ownership in the business
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Be actively involved in day-to-day operations
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Have credit in good standing (no outstanding collections)
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Submit a business plan and one-year cash flow forecast
👉 Download the application package here
Program Financing at a Glance
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Loan + Grant Mix: Minimum 50% loan financing, plus up to 45% non-repayable grant funds
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Equity: 0–10% cash or in-kind equity may be required
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Terms: Flexible repayment terms up to 60 months
The Bigger Picture
Supporting Indigenous youth entrepreneurship doesn’t just create individual success—it strengthens entire communities.
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In Alberta, Indigenous businesses contributed $9.2 billion to the provincial economy in 2023.
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Across Canada, the Indigenous economy now exceeds $56 billion annually—and it’s growing.
The IYE Program is part of this movement, helping youth entrepreneurs unlock opportunities and create ripple effects of growth and prosperity.
Start Your Journey Today
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Download the application package
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Submit your completed documents to youth@aiicbusiness.org
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Connect with a Business Services Officer
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Launch your entrepreneurial journey with funding, training, and mentorship
📞 Call: 780-470-3600
📧 Email: youth@aiicbusiness.org
🌐 Visit: aiicbusiness.org/indigenous-youth-entrepreneurs
📅 Schedule your call today: Book a time on Calendly
The IYE Program is more than just financial support—it’s about empowering the next generation of Indigenous entrepreneurs to dream bigger, build stronger, and create lasting impact.
