BC PROGRAMS
BC Black Business Hub
When Small Business BC closed in December 2024, it left a gap in provincial support. BEBC Society is filling it — connecting BC's Black entrepreneurs to loans, procurement certification, training, and the BC-specific resources you need to grow.
Small Business BC closed in December 2024. If you previously accessed SBBC's workshops, consultations, or programs, BEBC Society is here to support BC's Black business community. Our programs are free or subsidized for BEBC members. Become a member →
BEBC SOCIETY
Our programs for BC entrepreneurs
BEBC's flagship programs are open to Black entrepreneurs across Canada, including BC. These are your starting points — from your first loan to full procurement readiness.
Build — BOF Business Loan
Capacity building and loan readiness for new and early-stage Black entrepreneurs. 12–18 week program covering business planning, legal structure, financial literacy, and a pathway to up to $250,000 in BOF financing.
Apply Now →Empower — Procurement Certification
Canada's only Black-owned business certification (PCRC). Verifies your business is majority Black-owned and positions you to access corporate and government procurement contracts through BEBC's network.
Get Certified →Stabilize — Financial Literacy
Foundational financial literacy training for Black entrepreneurs and community members. Covers budgeting, credit, banking, and business finance basics — available in-person in BC and online nationally.
Enrol Now →Youth Business Accelerator (BYAP)
A 12-week entrepreneurship accelerator for Black youth ages 14–25 in BC. From idea to business plan — youth receive mentorship, financial literacy training, and support launching their first venture.
Learn More →BC PARTNER ORGANIZATION
Black Business Association of BC (BBABC)
BEBC's closest BC partner. BBABC delivers specialized programs for Black-owned businesses in British Columbia — from retail readiness to international trade. 4,100+ entrepreneurs supported to date.
Entrepreneurs Academy
Structured programs to scale your business. Covers advanced growth strategies, revenue-increasing tools, and practical skills for entrepreneurs ready to level up.
Click for More Info →Procurement Masterclass
Step-by-step guidance on accessing government and corporate procurement opportunities in BC and Canada. Ideal for businesses that have completed BEBC's PCRC certification.
Click for More Info →Retail Readiness & AI Expansion Accelerator
Packaging audits, buyer pitch development, and retail shelf-readiness strategy. Includes AI-powered tools to accelerate marketing and market expansion across BC.
Click for More Info →Market Access Accelerator
Export readiness, trade mission preparation, and compliance support for BC Black businesses looking to grow beyond provincial and national borders.
Click for More Info →Mentorship Program
One-on-one mentorship connecting Black entrepreneurs with experienced business advisors across BC. Available to BBABC members and community.
Click for More Info →Youth Entrepreneurs Program
Business education and support specifically for young Black entrepreneurs in BC, helping the next generation build viable businesses and generational wealth.
Click for More Info →BC & NATIONAL PROGRAMS
More BC Black business resources
Programs and organizations serving Black entrepreneurs in BC from national Black-led organizations. BEBC partners with these organizations to connect you to the full ecosystem of support.
African Canadian Business Summits
Annual national summit creating pathways to procurement opportunities, trade dialogue, and policy engagement for African Canadian businesses. 1,000+ participants across three editions.
Click for More Info →Black Women Business Exhibit
National marketplace combining commerce, community, and collective power for Black women entrepreneurs. 175+ exhibitors, 40+ workshops, and 3,000+ attendees across editions.
Click for More Info →Representation in Banking, Finance & Tech
Advancing Black participation and leadership in financial technology through research, skills development, and ecosystem building. Includes national symposiums and a FinTech Hub.
Click for More Info →Black Entrepreneur Startup Program (BESP)
Up to $75,000 in equity-free startup financing plus up to two years of free mentorship for Black entrepreneurs ages 18–39. Backed by RBC and the Business Development Bank of Canada.
Click for More Info →Afro World Expo
BBABC's flagship annual event connecting Black businesses, buyers, investors, and community in Vancouver. A major BC marketplace for discovering and supporting Black-owned brands.
Click for More Info →Rural & Remote Business Loans
Serves entrepreneurs in rural and remote BC communities with affordable business loans, advisory services, and entrepreneurship support. Especially valuable for Black entrepreneurs outside Metro Vancouver.
Click for More Info →GOVERNMENT FUNDING
Federal programs available in BC
The Government of Canada has invested hundreds of millions in Black entrepreneurship support. These programs are available to Black business owners in BC.
PacifiCan / Government of Canada
$3.8M invested in BCBlack Entrepreneurship Program (BEP) — Ecosystem Fund
Federal investment enabling Black-led non-profit organizations in BC to provide mentorship, training, and capacity building to Black entrepreneurs. New intakes are expected periodically through 2030.
Click for More Info →Government of Canada
Up to $250,000Black Entrepreneurship Loan Fund
National loan fund providing up to $250,000 to Black business owners and entrepreneurs across Canada, including BC. Part of the $300M+ federal Black Entrepreneurship Program.
Click for More Info →Federal Crown Corporation
FlexibleBusiness Development Bank of Canada (BDC)
Financing, consulting, and advisory services for Canadian SMEs at every stage. BDC has dedicated pathways for underrepresented entrepreneurs including loans, growth capital, and venture financing.
Click for More Info →GET STARTED
BC's Black business home is here
Become a BEBC member to access our programs, get connected to our partner organizations, and be part of BC's growing Black business ecosystem.