Backing Canadian Small Businesses: $10,000 CAD Grants, Apply by May 19, 2026

American Express Canada and DMZ at Toronto Metropolitan University have opened applications for the 2026 Backing Canadian Small Businesses program. The program will select 100 Canadian small businesses to receive a $10,000 CAD grant plus mentoring support.

What the Funding Covers

Selected businesses receive direct grant funding and a structured support program from DMZ.

• $10,000 CAD in grant funding per selected business
• 12 weeks of virtual mentoring support
• Small-group sessions and one-on-one coaching
• Guidance on sales, marketing, operations, and leadership
• Access to online learning resources

Who Can Apply

DMZ says applicants must operate an independent Canadian business and meet several size and ownership rules.

• Status: Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or otherwise authorized to work in Canada
• Age: 18 or older
• Business structure: Independent business, not part of a franchise
• Location: Incorporated in Canada and primarily operated in Canada
• Operating history: In operation on or before January 1, 2026
• Revenue cap: Less than $1.5M CAD in 2025 annual revenue
• Format: Physical or online businesses may apply

How to Apply

• Deadline: May 19, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. EDT
• Apply: DMZ application page
• Program focus: Businesses with clear community impact and a strong plan for using grant funds

Why It Matters

This is a solid fit for smaller Canadian businesses that want both cash and hands-on support. The combination of grant funding, mentoring, and a defined deadline makes it much more actionable than generic small-business grant roundups.

Source: DMZ – Backing Canadian Small Businesses