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Small Business Startup News and Resources

Read our collection of helpful small business news, resources, and guidance documents on starting or expanding a business in P.E.I and across Canada. Learn from the latest in small business startup trends, business plan techniques, and all about government funding!

Funding

Untitled document

Video 1: Canadian Government Business Funding Myths

Video 2: Levels of Canadian Government Funding
– local
– provincial
-federal

Video 3: Government Loans versus Government Grants

Video 4: Private Funding Types in Canada to Start a Small Business

Video 5: Government Funding Purposes and What You Can Get Funds For

Video 6: Funding Dos and Dont’s

Video 7: Government Funding Eligibility as a Small Business

Video 8: Government Funding Application Process

Video 9: 5 Steps to Government Funding Success As a Small Business

Video 10: Business Planning for Government Funding in Canada

Business Advice

What to Know About Government Grants

Improving My Small Business

Starting and operating a small business can be both a thrilling and challenging journey. Among the various obstacles you might face, securing sufficient funding for business improvements often stands out. In Canada, the government acknowledges the importance of supporting small businesses and offers numerous grants to aid their growth and progress. In particular, Prince Edward Island (P.E.I) provides an array of programs targeted at boosting local enterprises. Navigating the realm of government grants might seem complicated, but armed with the right knowledge, you can find and utilize these opportunities to enhance your business.

Streamline your business planning process with our Business Plan Builder tool! Create professional business plans and financial statements in minutes, getting you ready for government funding options.

Understanding Government Grants: The Basics and the Impact Government grants are non-repayable financial aids provided by federal, provincial, or municipal entities. The primary objectives of these grants are to stimulate economic growth, create job opportunities, foster innovation, and support sustainable practices. For small businesses, these grants can be instrumental in funding projects that otherwise might have been unfeasible due to budget constraints. Moreover, they can strengthen a business’s financial stability and competitive edge in the market.

Types of Government Grants: Diverse Opportunities for Your Business

  1. Research and Development (R&D) Grants: Focused on supporting innovation, these grants aim to foster the creation of novel products, services, or technologies. By covering expenses such as research costs, acquisition of advanced equipment, or hiring specialized personnel, R&D grants facilitate a business’s journey from idea conception to product launch.
  2. Expansion Grants: These grants target businesses aspiring to broaden their horizons. Whether it’s extending your operational space, developing your brand, or penetrating new markets, expansion grants provide the necessary financial cushion. They can cover a range of expenses including renovation costs, marketing campaigns, or market research efforts.
  3. Skills Development Grants: The success of a business often hinges on the skills of its workforce. With this in mind, skills development grants aim to enhance workforce proficiency by funding training initiatives, certification courses, or skill development programs.
  4. Green Initiatives Grants: In the wake of increasing environmental concerns, the Canadian government encourages businesses to adopt sustainable practices. From adopting renewable energy sources to improving waste management strategies, green initiatives grants can help make your business more environmentally friendly.

Eligibility Criteria: Ensuring You’re the Right Fit Government grants offer considerable benefits, but it’s vital to understand that not every business might qualify. While eligibility can vary with each grant, there are common factors taken into account:

  1. Business Size: Grants typically cater to small and medium enterprises. The specific definition of a small business might vary but usually encompasses considerations like annual revenue and employee count.
  2. Industry Focus: Certain grants focus on particular industries such as technology, agriculture, or tourism, aiming to stimulate economic growth and promote innovation within these sectors.
  3. Intended Use of Funds: A detailed and persuasive outline of how you plan to use the grant money is critical. You need to demonstrate the potential impact and value of your project or initiative.
  4. Location: Depending on the program, priority might be given to businesses in certain locations, such as rural areas or economically disadvantaged regions. In P.E.I, there are grants exclusive to businesses operating within the province.

How to Find Government Grants: Making the Quest Easier Locating the right grants for your small business can seem intimidating. Here are some strategies to streamline the process:

  1. Research Online Resources: Start your search by visiting government websites. The Government of Canada’s Grants and Financing portal is an excellent resource that lists available grants nationwide.
  2. Reach out to Business Support Organizations: Chambers of Commerce, Economic Development Agencies, or Small Business Centers often have information about regional and industry-specific grant opportunities.
  3. Networking and Collaboration: Attending industry-related events can offer chances to connect with peers who might have insights about grants. Collaborative relationships can lead to beneficial knowledge exchange.
  4. Consult Professional Assistance: If the grant search seems overwhelming, consider seeking the help of professionals specialized in grant applications. Their experience can prove invaluable in identifying suitable grants and crafting successful applications.

The Grant Application Process: A Step-By-Step Guide Once you’ve identified a fitting government grant, it’s crucial to understand the application process:

  1. Read the Guidelines: Ensure you’re aware of the grant’s eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and necessary documentation.
  2. Prepare a Strong Business Plan: Your business plan should effectively convey your current status, desired improvements, projected budget, and anticipated outcomes. It’s the blueprint that showcases your vision to the grant reviewers.
  3. Gather Required Documentation: Financial statements, resumes of key personnel, letters of support, or proof of registration are commonly required documents. Make sure you have all these ready beforehand.
  4. Complete the Application Form: The application should be filled out meticulously, providing clear, concise, and compelling responses. It’s essential to show how your business aligns with the grant’s objectives.
  5. Submit the Application: Send your application before the deadline, following any additional instructions given.

Grant Application Tips: Increasing Your Chances of Success Securing a government grant requires strategic planning. Here are some tips to enhance your chances:

  1. Start Early: Begin researching and preparing your application well ahead of the deadline to avoid last-minute hassles.
  2. Address Evaluation Criteria: Review the grant’s evaluation criteria and tailor your application accordingly. Demonstrating your alignment with the grant objectives is crucial.
  3. Provide Supporting Data: Include market research data, financial projections, and evidence of potential community impact to bolster your application.
  4. Seek Professional Feedback: Having your application reviewed by someone experienced can provide valuable insights and suggestions for improvement.
  5. Follow Up: After submitting, keep track of the review process timeline and be ready for any potential interviews or presentations.

Government grants can be an instrumental catalyst for your small business’s growth and improvement. With thorough research, a strong application, and a little perseverance, you can unlock these financial resources to elevate your entrepreneurial journey in P.E.I, Canada. Stay informed, stay prepared, and seize these opportunities to make your business goals a reality.

Funding

Credit Score Templates

Credit Score Templates

Certainly, let’s delve deeper into each of these strategies for improving your credit score:
* On-Time Payments: Payment history is the most significant factor in your credit score. Missing a payment can have a substantial negative impact. Automating your payments for bills, loans, and credit cards ensures you never miss a due date. This consistent payment behavior over time greatly enhances your creditworthiness.
* Credit Utilization Ratio: This ratio is a key indicator of your credit management skills. A high ratio suggests you’re overextended and may have difficulty managing your debts. Regularly paying down credit card balances, and not maxing out cards, demonstrate responsible credit use. If possible, paying off your credit card balances in full each month is ideal.
* Credit History Length: The age of your credit accounts shows lenders your experience with managing credit. Older accounts contribute to a longer credit history, which is beneficial for your score. Even if you no longer use an older credit card, keeping it open (as long as it doesn’t have high fees) can help maintain your credit history length.
* Credit Mix: This refers to the variety of credit types you have, such as credit cards, mortgage, auto loans, and personal loans. A diverse mix can show that you’re capable of handling different types of credit. However, it’s important to only take on debt that you can afford to repay.
* New Credit Applications: Each hard inquiry from applying for new credit can slightly lower your score. While one or two inquiries aren’t typically a concern, several in a short period can be problematic. Be strategic about applying for new credit and only do so when necessary.
* Review Your Credit Reports: Errors on credit reports are not uncommon and can unfairly lower your score. By law, you are entitled to a free credit report from each of the three major bureaus once per year through AnnualCreditReport.com. Review these reports for inaccuracies and dispute any errors you find.
* Debt Management: High levels of debt can negatively impact your credit score. Strategies like the debt snowball (paying off debts from smallest to largest) or debt avalanche (paying off debts with the highest interest rates first) can be effective. This not only improves your credit score but also reduces the amount you pay in interest.
* Credit Builder Loans or Secured Credit Cards: These are designed for those with no credit or poor credit. A credit builder loan doesn’t provide funds upfront. Instead, you make payments into an account, and at the end of the loan term, you receive the money back. Secured credit cards require a cash deposit that serves as your credit limit. Both options can build or improve your credit score when used responsibly.
* Limit Closing Accounts: Closing credit accounts can increase your credit utilization ratio and decrease the average age of your accounts, both of which can negatively impact your score. Only close accounts if necessary.
* Be Patient and Consistent: Building or repairing credit doesn’t happen overnight. It requires consistent, responsible financial behavior over time. Keep monitoring your credit score and credit report to track your progress and make adjustments as needed.
These strategies, when applied diligently and consistently, can lead to significant improvements in your credit score over time. Remember, in complex financial situations, personalized advice from a financial advisor or credit counselor can be invaluable.

When speaking with your credit card or loan provider about assistance with credit repair, it’s important to communicate clearly, honestly, and with a strategy in mind. Here are some key points and phrases to consider:
* Express Willingness to Pay: Start by affirming your commitment to paying your debts. Say something like, “I am committed to meeting my financial obligations and want to ensure I’m doing so in a way that also helps me repair my credit.”
* Ask for Specific Adjustments: If you’re struggling with high-interest rates or fees, ask if they can be adjusted. You might say, “I’m finding the current interest rates challenging and am seeking ways to reduce my financial burden. Are there any options for lowering my rate?”
* Request a Payment Plan: If you’re behind on payments, ask about setting up a manageable payment plan. Say, “I’d like to discuss setting up a payment plan that is realistic for my current financial situation.”
* Inquire About Hardship Programs: Many lenders offer hardship programs for temporary relief. You can ask, “Do you offer any hardship programs or temporary adjustments for customers who are experiencing financial difficulties?”
* Seek Advice on Credit Improvement: You can ask for suggestions on how to use their products to improve your credit. Try, “What are your recommendations for using this account to positively impact my credit score?”
* Negotiate for Pay-for-Delete: If you have collections, you can attempt a pay-for-delete negotiation. This is where you ask if they would consider removing the collection from your credit report upon full payment. However, be aware that not all creditors agree to this, and it’s less common now.
* Discuss Balance Transfer Options: If you have high credit card balances, ask about balance transfer options to lower interest cards. Say, “I’m interested in consolidating my credit card debt and am looking for options with lower interest rates.”
* Request a Credit Line Increase: This can help lower your credit utilization ratio. Make sure to clarify, “I’m not looking to increase my debt, but to improve my credit utilization ratio. Can we discuss the possibility of increasing my credit limit?”
* Clarify Reporting Practices: Ensure that your payments are being reported to the credit bureaus. Ask, “Can you confirm that my payments are being reported to all three major credit bureaus?”
* Express Gratitude and Openness to Solutions: Always thank them for their time and express your willingness to find solutions. You might say, “Thank you for considering my situation. I am open to any suggestions you might have.”
Remember, while these approaches can be effective, the responses you receive will depend on the lender’s policies and your specific financial circumstances. Always approach these conversations with a plan and be prepared for different outcomes. If you’re unsure about how to negotiate with creditors or manage complex credit issues, seeking advice from a credit counselor can be very beneficial.

Template 1: Request for Lower Interest Rate
Subject: Request for Interest Rate Reduction
Dear [Credit Card Company/Lender’s Name],
I am writing to discuss the interest rate on my account [Your Account Number]. I have been a customer with [Credit Card Company/Lender’s Name] since [Year] and have always strived to maintain a good payment record.
Due to [briefly state your reason – financial hardship, market rate changes, etc.], I am finding it increasingly challenging to manage the current interest rate. I would like to request a review of my account for a possible interest rate reduction. A lower rate would greatly assist me in managing my payments more effectively and continue to be a responsible account holder.
I appreciate your consideration of my request and look forward to your positive response.
Thank you for your time and assistance.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]

Template 2: Hardship Program Inquiry
Subject: Inquiry About Hardship Assistance Programs
Dear [Credit Card Company/Lender’s Name],
I am reaching out to inquire about any hardship assistance programs that might be available for customers facing temporary financial difficulties. I have been a loyal customer since [Year], but due to [briefly explain your hardship – loss of employment, medical emergency, etc.], I am currently experiencing financial strain.
I am committed to fulfilling my financial obligations and am seeking a temporary solution that will help me navigate this challenging period. Any assistance or adjustment you can offer, such as a payment plan or temporary interest rate reduction, would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you for your understanding and support. I am eager to find a mutually beneficial solution.
Kind regards,
[Your Full Name]
Template 3: Dispute of Inaccuracy on Credit Report
Subject: Dispute of Inaccurate Information on Credit Report
Dear [Credit Card Company/Lender’s Name],
I am writing to formally dispute an inaccuracy regarding my account [Your Account Number] that appears on my credit report.
Upon reviewing my credit report, I noticed [describe the inaccuracy – e.g., a late payment reported inaccurately, incorrect balance, etc.]. This information is incorrect because [provide your explanation or evidence]. Attached, you will find [mention any documents you are attaching, such as payment records, bank statements, etc.] supporting my claim.
I kindly request that you investigate this matter and correct the error as soon as possible. Accurate reporting is crucial for my credit health, and I appreciate your prompt attention to this issue.
Thank you for addressing this matter swiftly.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
Template 4: Negotiating a Payment Plan
Subject: Request for Payment Plan Arrangement
Dear [Credit Card Company/Lender’s Name],
I am writing to discuss my current financial situation and to explore options for a manageable payment plan. My account number is [Your Account Number].
Recently, I have faced [briefly explain your financial hardship or reason for difficulty in payment, like reduced income, unexpected expenses, etc.]. This situation has made it challenging for me to meet the existing payment terms.
I am fully committed to repaying my debt and am seeking your assistance in setting up a payment plan that aligns with my current financial capabilities. I am hoping we can agree on a reduced payment amount of [Proposed Payment Amount] per month for [Proposed Duration], after which I aim to resume regular payments.
Your support in this matter would be greatly appreciated and would help me maintain a positive relationship with [Credit Card Company/Lender’s Name].
Thank you for your understanding and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]

Funding

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Purpose and Scope: It defines the objectives of the process, outlining what the process aims to achieve and the scope of its application within the business.

Process Flow: This includes a step-by-step guide or a flowchart detailing each stage of the process, the sequence of actions, and how they are interconnected.

Roles and Responsibilities: Documentation specifies who is responsible for each step of the process, delineating roles and responsibilities clearly to avoid ambiguity.

Resources and Tools: It lists the resources, tools, and technology required to execute the process. This might include software systems, equipment, or specific documents.

Performance Metrics: The documentation often includes key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics used to measure the efficiency and effectiveness of the process.

Compliance and Standards: It ensures that the process aligns with legal, regulatory, and quality standards relevant to the business.

Best Practices and Guidelines: Documentation may also include best practices, guidelines, and tips to improve the effectiveness of the process.

Risks and Controls: Potential risks associated with the process and the controls put in place to mitigate these risks are often included.

Process Improvement: It should also provide information on how the process can be reviewed and improved over time.

Version Control: Business process documentation should be regularly updated and maintained, with version control ensuring that the most current process is documented.

Funding

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True or False
* Grants are the best funding programmes available.
* True
* False
Explanation: Whether grants are the “best” depends on the specific needs and circumstances of the individual or business. For some, loans might be a better option.
* All grants have conditions you must meet.
* True
* False
Explanation: Most grants come with stipulations or criteria that recipients must fulfill.
* You must already be very successful to qualify for a government grant.
* True
* False
Explanation: While some grants might require proven success, many are designed specifically to help startups or struggling businesses.
* Government loans are the most common type of government funding for businesses available.
* True (This could vary depending on the context and the country)
* False
* A business plan is not required to apply for government funding.
* True
* False
Explanation: In most cases, a business plan is necessary to show how funds will be used and the potential for success.
Multiple Choice
6. Which of the following is typically a non-repayable form of financing?
* Business Loan
* Credit Card
* Mortgage
* Grant
Explanation: Grants are typically non-repayable, given they meet all conditions.
* What primary factor differentiates a grant from a loan?
* The size of the funding
* The interest rate applied
* The need for collateral
* Repayment requirement
Explanation: The main difference is that loans need to be repaid, while grants typically do not.
* For which of the following reasons might a business prefer a grant over a loan?
* A grant always has a higher amount
* A grant typically doesn’t require repayment
* A loan has more flexibility in usage
* All businesses automatically qualify for grants
Explanation: The primary appeal of a grant is that it typically doesn’t require repayment.
* Which document might a business be asked to provide when applying for both grants and loans?
* Business Card
* Social Media Profile
* Business Plan
* Product Sample
Explanation: A business plan outlines a business’s goals and how they plan to achieve them.
* If a business fails to meet the conditions of a grant, what could be a possible consequence?
* The grant turns into a loan
* They might be required to repay the grant
* They will be awarded more funds
* The business is automatically eligible for another grant
Explanation: If the conditions of a grant are not met, the grantee might be required to repay the funds.

Funding

Book report

Book Report
Name of the book

Your Name
4th September, 20XX

________________

Introduction
1. Title
2. Author
3. Illustrator
4. Fiction or Nonfiction
5. Why did you choose this book?
Reading Rainbow Tip: Was the title interesting? Did the cover spark your curiosity? Was it something else? Talk about why you chose the book to help your classmates understand more about you!
________________
The Setting
Reading Rainbow Tip: Think about WHEN the story takes place, WHERE it all happens, and how much TIME passes from start to finish. Describe the setting so your classmates feel like they are INSIDE the story!

Reading Rainbow Tip: Find an image online that resembles the setting of this story, then replace the image above.
________________

The Characters
Reading Rainbow Tip: Who is the main character? Do they have any friends or helpers? Is there someone who challenges the main character? Instead of just naming people, talk about what makes each person memorable.

Reading Rainbow Tip: Find an image online of the main character, or an image that resembles this character in some way, then replace the image above.
________________

Plot
1. Beginning: what happened at the beginning?
2. Middle: usually the highest point of action in the story.
3. Ending: how did everything finally work out?
Reading Rainbow Tip: Think about the most important events in the story. Be careful not to re-tell the whole story but give enough detail so that the plot makes sense to someone who hasn’t read the book.
________________
Conclusion
Reading Rainbow Tip: It’s important to give your opinion! Would you recommend this book to someone else?

Funding

Book report

________________

Table of Contents
IS ENTREPRENEURSHIP FOR YOU?……………………………………………………………………(Page 2)
WHY CONSIDER ENTREPRENEURSHIP?………………………………………………………….(Page 5)
SMALL BUSINESS SURVIVAL GUIDE………………………………………………………………….(Page 10)
BUYING A BUSINESS OR STARTING YOUR OWN…………………………………………(Page 17)
DEVELOPING YOUR IDEA………………………………………………………………………………………(Page 21)
TYPE OF BUSINESS………………………………………………………………………………………………… (Page 30)
BUSINESS PLANNING……………………………………………………………………………………………..(Page 40)
FINANCING YOUR BUSINESS……………………………………………………………..……………….(Page 48)
PLANNING FOR YOUR BUSINESS………………………………………………………………………(Page 54)
BUSINESS CONTINUITY PLANNING…………………………………………………………………..(Page 73)
WRITING YOUR BUSINESS PLAN…………………………………………………..…………………..(Page 78)
FINANCING FOR YOUR SMALL BUSINESS……………………………………………………..(Page 95)
PERSONAL FINANCING………………………………………………………………………………………….(Page 98)
PRIVATE SECTOR FINANCING……………………………………………………..………………….…(Page 105)
GOVERNMENT FINANCING………………………………………………………………………………….(Page 118)

________________

The Setting
Reading Rainbow Tip: Think about WHEN the story takes place, WHERE it all happens, and how much TIME passes from start to finish. Describe the setting so your classmates feel like they are INSIDE the story!

Reading Rainbow Tip: Find an image online that resembles the setting of this story, then replace the image above.
________________

The Characters
Reading Rainbow Tip: Who is the main character? Do they have any friends or helpers? Is there someone who challenges the main character? Instead of just naming people, talk about what makes each person memorable.

Reading Rainbow Tip: Find an image online of the main character, or an image that resembles this character in some way, then replace the image above.
________________

Plot
1. Beginning: what happened at the beginning?
2. Middle: usually the highest point of action in the story.
3. Ending: how did everything finally work out?
Reading Rainbow Tip: Think about the most important events in the story. Be careful not to re-tell the whole story but give enough detail so that the plot makes sense to someone who hasn’t read the book.
________________
Conclusion
Reading Rainbow Tip: It’s important to give your opinion! Would you recommend this book to someone else?

Funding

Wah-ila-toos Application Template – June 2023 (1)

CLEAN ENERGY IN INDIGENOUS, RURAL AND REMOTE COMMUNITIES

FUNDING APPLICATION

Instructions

* This application is for federal funding for activities and projects related to reducing diesel reliance for heat and power, including capacity building, renewable energy and energy efficiency. Your application will be shared with Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), Crown-Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada (CIRNAC), Indigenous Services Canada (ISC), Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) and Infrastructure and Communities Canada (INFC).
* Program staff are available to assist you in the application development and submission process. If you have any questions or require assistance, please contact the program at [email protected] or you can follow up with your existing point of contact within the program.
* If you have any project documentation that addresses any or all of the Application Form question(s), you may attach and reference these documents instead of filling out these sections. This can include a recently submitted application form or proposal to another funding program, feasibility studies, engagement plans, project governance descriptions, work scope descriptions, project schedules, project budgets, etc.
* The level of detail in the application should be proportional to the size and complexity of the project. Please indicate if a section does not apply to your project or if you do not have a response to a section. For example, indicate “not applicable” or “This is a project idea and has not been developed further”. There will be opportunities to further provide information throughout the development and assessment process.
* If any part of this Application contains confidential or proprietary information, please write it in red font.

CLEAN ENERGY IN INDIGENOUS, RURAL AND REMOTE COMMUNITIES

FUNDING APPLICATION

1. Applicant Information
Applicant Organization
Organization Type

Mailing Address

Business Number
(if applicable)
(e.g., federal GST/CRA #)
Primary Contact

Email
Phone
Secondary Contact

Email
Phone
Is this the first time your organization has applied for federal clean energy funding?
Yes No Unsure
If no, please specify program(s) ______________

2. Project Information
Project Title

Project Location

Project Timeline
to
Total Project Cost

Total Funding Requested

Project Province/Territory (select all that apply)
BC AB SK MB ON QC NB NS PEI NL NT YT NU
Please specify region, sub-region and/or nation territory _________________
Project Description
Provide a full description of the project and key activities. Indicate the work that has been completed, is currently underway, and planned activities to advance the project. Additionally, include the following information based on type of project:

If this is a capacity-building project, please identify how it will help reduce diesel or fossil fuel reliance for power and/or heat and advance community-led clean energy opportunities.

If this is a clean energy project, please identify (if known):
* the technology being proposed (e.g. wind, solar, hydro, biomass, energy storage, energy efficiency, combinations, etc.);
* how it will help improve energy usage within the community and reduce reliance on fossil fuels for heat and power;
* the proposed system size including anticipated heat load and/or electricity demand;
* whether the project has revenue generating potential;
* the proposed plan for managing operation and maintenance costs and maintaining the renewable energy asset throughout its life cycle; and,
* whether this is a novel application of the technology, and whether it has been done elsewhere in a similar climate or remote site.

If this is a research and development project, please identify (if applicable):
* the generation technology being studied (e.g. small wind, marine, municipal waste conversion, combinations, etc.) and its deployment readiness for Canadian remote communities (e.g. theoretical, prototype, experimental, demonstration, etc.)
* scope of the study (e.g. community or industrial scale, estimating heating or electricity loads, energy storage, microgrid reliability, development of a test facility, etc.)
* non-technology project considerations (e.g. health or climate implications from diesel, barriers to uptake of renewables, use of traditional knowledge, cultural development models, etc.)

Project Benefits
Provide a description of the project overall result(s) and expected outcome(s). Include details like:

How the project is addressing community, national and/or regional electricity/renewable energy challenges.
* You may wish to include how the project responds to community needs and/or fits into a community vision/plan.
* Examples of challenges: a lack of tools or training for community action, frequent blackouts, end of equipment life, high costs of heat and power, community accessibility.

Describe the overall benefits and expected results of the project, including who will benefit and how. Please include the expected environmental, social and economic benefits of the project. What would be considered a successful project by the community?
* Examples: estimated reduction of diesel fuel (litres/year), estimated reduction in greenhouse gas emission (tonnes CO2/year), health benefits (e.g. improved air quality), number and types of jobs created and improved human resource capacity, community energy independence and resiliency, improved reliability of electricity and heat, economic/ financial benefits (e.g., operating savings, lower energy costs).
* Describe how the project will contribute to increased capacity within the community and/or region, such as increased institutional capacity and community involvement, improved energy literacy, knowledge and skills development, supporting energy champions, etc.

Where appropriate, Applicants are encouraged to consider and provide evidence of how their projects will advance the United Nations Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

If relevant, please describe any past or proposed work related to the project that advances equity, diversity and inclusion in electricity/renewable energy in Canada.

Project Governance and Team
Provide a summary of the ownership and governance structure of the project. If applicable, include details of Indigenous ownership/partnership of the project and their role in decision-making processes.

Provide a summary of the project team. E.g. Who is leading the project? Who will be hired to complete the work (project manager, local project champion, project adviser, consulting engineer, contractors, technology providers, etc.)?

In tables below, describe key team members involved in the project (e.g., their experience, role and expertise they will bring). If applicable, describe any legal background and who will retain any intellectual property for the project.

Provide sufficient detail for the program to assess whether the team has the necessary capability and capacity (e.g., management, technical, etc.) for the proposed work, but do not include resumés.

Add/delete rows as needed.
Team Member
Organization
Role
Phone Number
Email
1
Name of Project Manager

Role in organization and in project

Insert Project Manager’s experience in area of work (e.g., past positions, including key responsibilities and timeframe) and expertise they will bring to project. Can be bulleted summary.

2
Name of team member 2

Insert Team member’s experience and expertise.

3
Name of team member 3

Insert Team member’s experience and expertise.

4
Name of team member 4

Insert Team member’s experience and expertise.

3. Project Engagement
Indigenous and Community Engagement
Describe which communities will participate in the project, the level of community involvement both during the project and beyond, the ongoing relationship between you as the applicant organization with the communities, and completed and/or planned community engagement efforts. Indicate the level of support from the community(ies) and alignment with community plans and values. Include any confirmed written support, funding, leadership, etc.

What opportunities will be made to allow the views of under-represented groups (e.g. women, gender-diverse people, youth, Elders, 2SLGBTQ+, people with disabilities, etc) to be shared and incorporated into the project?
Anticipated Partners and Supporters
Please list the names of any relevant partner organizations or individuals and indicate their role in the project. This would include potential funders, governments, utilities, etc.

For projects involving the demonstration or deployment of a clean energy technology, describe the partnerships with Provincial/Territorial Government and Utility, who has been engaged and their level of support.

Example: are there memorandums of understanding (MOUs), joint ventures (JVs) or power/energy purchase agreements under development; is the project outlined in a community energy plan; are environmental assessments/permits underway; if no engagement has occurred is there an engagement plan in place?

Partner/Supporter
Description of Role

4. Project Workplan
Workplan Details
If available, please attach your detailed project plan documents (e.g. Gantt chart, project budget). You may reference these documents instead of filling out this section.

Using the table below, describe how the project will be carried out including; a list of project tasks; a high-level description for each; who is expected to complete them; what are the anticipated outputs or results (e.g. milestones); what is the timeline for each task; and the estimated cost.

If applicable, please include details on the required permits, environmental assessments and/or regulatory approvals for construction and operation of the project.

Add/delete rows as needed.

Project Task
Description
Team Member or Organization Responsible
Output/result
Start and Completion Date
Estimated Cost ($)
1

2

5. Project Risks and Mitigation
Using the table below, please describe any risks associated with the project (e.g, financial, scope, timeline, technical, consultation, market, etc.) and include the estimated likelihood (high, medium, low) and impact of the risk, as well as the mitigation measure that will be taken.
Add/delete rows as needed.
Description of Risk
Likelihood and project impact
Mitigation measure
Describe the risk to the successful execution of the project
Describe the estimated likelihood of the risk occurring and the impact to the project should it occur
Describe the mitigation measure taken and estimate the residual risk to project (low, medium, or high)

Residual Risk Level
Low
The residual risk has little potential for impact on project success. The Applicant is confident the mitigation measures in place effectively manage the risk.
Medium
The residual risk has some potential for impact on the project. With mitigation measures in place, the potential impact is not critical to project success or is very unlikely to occur.
High
The residual risk has significant potential to impact project success with outlined mitigation measures in place.

6. Additional Information (optional)
Yes No Supporting documents have been attached to this Application.

* List file names of attached documents, for example, permits, land access approvals, environmental assessments, support letters, studies, etc.

7. Project Financials:

Please provide sources of funding of the proposed project. Leave blank any sections that do not apply to you. Insert additional rows as needed. Organize by fiscal years (i.e. 2022-23 is April 1, 2022 to March 31, 2023). Please note there will be an additional Budget Template to complete at a later stage to indicate cost categories of the proposed project.

2022-2023
2023-2024
2024-2025
2025-2026
2026-2027
Total
Contributions

Program funding sought:

Other Government of Canada Funding:
* List Department or Agency

Please indicate the status of funding (applied, pending, confirmed).

Other Provincial, Municipal, Territorial or Indigenous government funding:

Applicant Organization

Funding from other sources:
* Please identify source

In-Kind:
* List organization(s)

Total contributions per year:

8. Applicant Attestation
By submitting this project application, the Applicant:

* Attests that they have read and agree to the terms and conditions in the Applicant Guide.
* Attests that it is legally registered or incorporated in Canada (does not apply to governments).
* Attests that the information provided is true and accurate to the best of their knowledge.
* Understands that any costs incurred for the submission of the Application Form are at the Applicant’s own risk.
* Understands that CIRNAC and NRCan reserve the right to alter the currently envisaged process, and deadlines, or to cancel the entire application process at its sole discretion.
* Understands that project funding decisions will only be made following receipt, review, and selection of projects and the successful completion of due diligence.
* Understands and acknowledges that no liability, commitment or obligation exists on the part of CIRNAC and NRCan to make a financial contribution to the project until a written funding agreement is signed by both parties.
* Attests that it is the owner of all information – proprietary, confidential or otherwise – provided as part of the proposal submission, or, if the information belongs to another party, that it has obtained written consent to disclose the information to CIRNAC and NRCan.
* Understands that federal reviewers are bound by the requirements of the Access to Information Act and the Privacy Act regarding the treatment of confidential information.

By checking below, the Applicant agrees that the Government of Canada may share this application and any other information provided as supplemental material with other potential funding entities in an effort to better support projects. Please indicate which of the following you consent to having your proposal shared with:
a) Other Government of Canada Departments or Agencies;
Yes No
b) Provincial, Territorial and Municipal Governments;
Yes No
) Local and/or Regional Utility; and
Yes No
e) Not-for-profit sector or foundations (e.g., Federation of Canadian Municipalities)
Yes No

9. Conflict of Interest Attestation
Definition: A person is in a conflict of interest when they exercise an official power, duty or function that provides an opportunity to further their private interests or those of their relatives or friends or to improperly influence another person’s private interests.

The following questions are to be used as guidelines to help you assess if a real, potential or perceived conflict of interest exists. If “Yes” for any of the below, the Program will contact you to discuss further (i.e. not an automatic project disqualification). To the best of your knowledge:

Are any current or former Government of Canada employees, excluding your current point of contact within the program, working or associated with the development of this proposal or project?

Will a current or former public servant or any of their relatives or friends be receiving any personal or financial benefit of any kind as a result of the Government of Canada entering into an agreement with your organization?

Have you, any individual working in your organization, your partners’ organizations, or any individual working in their organization, formerly provided consultancy services to the Minister or departments that are related to this project, particularly any services associated with developing the proposal?

Please sign below to confirm having read and understood the statements above
Signature:

Date:
Name of Duly Authorized Officer:

Title:

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