The Business Foundations program invests in growing businesses owned by people from systemically excluded groups in B.C.’s music ecosystem, to expand and develop networks, capacity, and infrastructure.
Businesses can apply for grants up to $10,000 to support business operations, funding up to 100% of expenses.
Open for Applications
Apply now! This program launched on January 28, 2026.
The application deadline is March 25, 2026 at 4:00 pm Pacific Time.
Results will be available approximately 12 weeks after the application deadline.
An evaluation panel of industry professionals representing the groups this program is intended to serve will be established by Creative BC to determine successful projects based on business viability, impact and additional criteria as outlined in the program guidelines below.
Would you like to connect with Creative BC staff, ask questions, and learn more about this program?
Sign up for an online info session below:
In-person info sessions in Vancouver and Surrey are planned for March 2026. Details will be announced soon.
Past info sessions:
- Wednesday, February 11, 2026 – online (MS Teams) – 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
- Friday, February 6, 2026 – in-person (Cait’s Sweet Bites & Beanery, Prince George) – 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm
All info sessions are conducted in English, and occur in Pacific Time.
Searchable industry resources – vendors, grant writers, collaborators, and creative partners that can suppport your proposed project – all hosted on Creative BC’s Knowledge Hub:
If you have questions, or need assistance, please contact:
Navreet Dhaliwal | Coordinator, Music Programs
Tel: 236-455-0945
Email: ndhaliwal@creativebc.com
Book an appointment (available after February 19, 2026).
Business Foundations Guidelines 2026/27
Review these guidelines before beginning your Business Foundations application.
Application Form
Business Foundations Application Form 2026/27
Start your application here.
Business Foundations Budget Template 2026/27
Complete your Business Foundations project budget using this template. *Required.
Business Foundations Client List 2026/27
Provide your Business Foundations client list using this template. *Required.
Business Foundations Sample Application Form 2026/27
Reference the application questions, save your work, and collaborate with others using this editable form.
Profit + Loss Statement Template
Use this template of a Profit & Loss statement to provide a snapshot of your company’s finances.
Community Partnerships List
Complete this list, and add it to your application.
Business Foundations Tip Sheet + FAQ 2026/27
View frequently-asked questions about this program.
Business Foundations Scoring Sheet 2026/27
Review the Business Foundations scoring criteria here.
Business Model Canvas
Use this tool to set a visual representation of your business model.
SMART Goals
Use this tool to set your business goals and provide clarity and structure to your objectives.
SWOT Analysis
Use this tool to identify your business’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats by assessing internal and external factors affecting your venture.
The deadline for 2024/25 Business Foundations final reports is March 1, 2026.
Contact staff with any project changes prior to submitting your final report.
Business Foundations Final Report (online form)
Business Foundations Cost Report (Excel download)
Business Foundations Client List (Excel download)
Logo Use Approval Form (online form)
