BMO for Black Entrepreneurs
We’re committed to supporting and championing the growth of Black-owned businesses. Learn more about our comprehensive programs, partnerships and educational resources designed to help you thrive.
Expanding possibilities for Black-owned businesses
Better access to capital
Get better access to working capital with expanded criteria and competitive interest rates. footnote 1
Better access to education
We help you achieve real financial progress in your business through practical tools, webinars and coaching.
Better access to partnerships
Ask us how to take advantage of the business building support offered through our community partner, Black Opportunity Fund.
Providing better access to working capital
Our program provides loans of up to $150,000 using specialized lending criteria footnote 1 for Black entrepreneurs across Canada.
Business loans can be used for:
Capital investments such as equipment, leasehold improvements, property improvement and office equipment- Working capital, including inventory, payroll, lease payments, accounts management, rent and overhead costs
- Short-term accounts receivable financing
You are eligible to apply if:
- Your business is >50% majority-owned by a Black Canadian
- You have annual revenue <$10 million
- You are a legal resident of Canada or a legal entity owned and controlled by a Canadian citizen or citizens
- Your business is a for-profit organization
Ready to get started?
Email us at ZeroBarrierstoBusinessCA@bmo.com
Get educational resources for your business
Marketing on a budget: what to do during a cash crunch
Marketing is still a key part of running your business - even if sales are down. Get tips on how to make a big splash without a big spend.
Business cash flow – why it matters during tough times
COVID-19 has impacted cash flow for many small businesses. Read our advice on how to manage your cash during unpredicatable times.
Crisis planning guide: How to manage through uncertainty
Sourcing alternate suppliers and re-engaging with customers may be top of mind. Take action to help your business with this free downloadable guide.
Access tools and templates to help your business succeed
This professional template is designed to help you develop a well-thought-out plan.
When seeking capital, there are various factors to consider. This guide outlines a wide variety of conventional and non-traditional financing sources and how they can work for you.
Establish your financial goals and track your progress for the next five years as your business grows.
Take the time to review your marketing plan to determine what is no longer viable or new possibilities to promote your business.
Download this guide to help you prepare a financial proposal that places you and your company in the best light possible as you seek to attract debt or equity capital.
Take control of your company’s cash flow using this professional template. Although your accountant can provide assistance, it’s important that you are familiar with the process.
Learn about how the system works, what your banker expects from you and how to maintain a banker-friendly relationship.
As a business owner, you face the difficult challenge of balancing the needs of your business with the needs of yourself and your family. Learn about the strategies and solutions that are appropriate to reduce the risk to business owners in achieving business goals.
Small Business Stories
Customers share what motivated them to start a business, what success means to them and how BMO helped them along the way.
LinkedIn Canada in the Media Landscape
Learn about consumer trust and social platforms, best practices for your LinkedIn profile as well as advertising essentials and engaging your audience in the newsfeed.
Celebrating Black-owned businesses
Find out why we’re celebrating Black-owned businesses like The Villij, a wellness community driven by diversity, equity, inclusion and education.
Read thought-provoking conversations from Black female business leaders
Bold & Black is a monthly interview series conducted by entrepreneur and Canada’s Top 25 Women of Influence Honouree, Tanya Hayles. Tanya is the founder of Black Moms Connection, an online global village of almost 20,000 and a non-profit providing programs and financial tools through grant programs generously supported by BMO.
In our own words: our purpose
Our partnerships
Have questions? That’s what we’re here for.
Find a branch
And talk to us about your business.
Come talk to us
Visit a branch to get expert insight and advice.
Email us
Connect with a program specialist.
