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The Canada Small Business Financing Program, Explained

Buying or growing a business and need to finance equipment, premises improvements, or a commercial property? The Canada Small Business Financing Program (CSBFP) is a federal program that helps small businesses borrow by having the government share the lender's risk. Here is what it covers and who it is for.

What It Can Help Finance

Commercial Property

Buy or improve land or buildings used for your business.

Equipment

New or used equipment for the business.

Leasehold Improvements

Renovations to space your business leases.

Intangibles and Working Capital

Software, franchise fees, and day-to-day costs, within program limits.

How It Is Delivered

Through a bank or credit union, with the federal government sharing the lender's risk.

The Basics

Who Qualifies

A for-profit small business or start-up operating in Canada with gross annual revenue of $10 million or less. Farming businesses and non-profits are not eligible.

What to Know

It is a loan from a financial institution, not a grant. Total borrowing is capped (up to $1.15 million per borrower), with sub-limits and program rules that can change over time.

We help you see where it fits in the bigger picture. CSBFP loans are arranged through a lender, so we help you understand whether it suits your purchase and coordinate it with the rest of the financing. See also our Buying a Business or Premises guide. Any figures are illustrative only.
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Financing a Business Purchase or Growth?

Tell us what you are buying or building, and we will weigh every angle, including programs like the CSBFP, and help you put the strongest plan together. A licensed member of our team will follow up.

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(902) 835-6420  |  contact@tmgharbourtown.ca

Information here is general and educational. It is not financial, legal, or lending advice, and it is not an offer of financing. The Canada Small Business Financing Program is a federal program delivered through financial institutions and is subject to program rules, eligibility, limits, and lender approval, all of which can change. Any figures are illustrative only. All financing is subject to lender review and supporting documentation. Submission of a form does not guarantee approval or financing.