BDC founder funding: Inclusive Loan status, Thrive and LIFT
The Inclusive Entrepreneurship Loan is closed to applications. Understand how current loan and investment routes serve different capital needs.
Inclusive Entrepreneurship Loan: applications are closed
BDC’s current English product page states that applications for the Inclusive Entrepreneurship Loan are now closed. Older descriptions of its ownership requirements and loan terms should not be read as an available application offer. Existing borrowers should follow their agreements and contact BDC about servicing questions.
Thrive is an investment platform
BDC Capital’s Thrive platform supports women-led businesses through investment initiatives including venture capital, Thrive Lab and entrepreneurship through acquisition. It is not a general-purpose AI implementation loan. Whether it fits depends on the business, growth model, investment route and the relevant fund criteria.
LIFT finances a defined adoption investment
LIFT is debt for eligible digital, AI, cybersecurity or equipment projects. It has revenue, financial and planning requirements and requires Canadian suppliers. Founder identity does not replace those requirements. Use the current LIFT comparison before asking BDC about a particular project.
Choose by capital need
- If you need financing for an operating business, ask BDC or your lender about currently available loans.
- If you are building a high-growth company and considering investment, investigate the specific Thrive route and its investment terms.
- If the work is a technology innovation project, discuss IRAP rather than assuming a loan or equity program is the only route.
Prepare the business model, ownership, revenue, capital required, use of proceeds and repayment or growth case. Ask the administrator to identify the active route. A closed program page remaining online is not evidence that applications have reopened.