Access to FUNDING for Black Entrepreneurs | Help Black-led Businesses |BMO

In a concerted effort to address long-standing disparities in access to capital, the Bank of Montreal (BMO) has deepened its commitment to supporting Black entrepreneurs through strategic partnerships and targeted financial programs.

At the heart of this initiative is BMO’s Black Entrepreneur Program, designed to provide funding, mentorship, and structural support to Black-owned businesses at every stage—whether they are launching, expanding, or scaling operations. A key collaboration in this mission is the alliance with Black Atlas, an organization celebrated for its work in empowering Black business leaders across Canada.

A BMO Commercial Relationship Manager emphasized the institution’s dedication to changing the narrative around financial inclusion. “One of the biggest challenges Black entrepreneurs face is access to funding,” the representative noted. “That’s why BMO launched this program—to break down those barriers and ensure entrepreneurs have the resources they need to succeed.” By connecting directly with founders at events like those hosted by Black Atlas, the bank aims to build trust, demystify banking processes, and tailor financial solutions to the unique needs of each business.

The partnership underscores a broader shift in the financial sector, where institutions are increasingly recognizing their role in advancing economic equity. The BMO representative highlighted that many Black entrepreneurs have historically relied on personal savings to finance their ventures, often missing out on institutional support that could accelerate their growth. Through its network of partner organizations, BMO now offers comprehensive assistance—not just capital, but also guidance on business planning, legal structuring, and market strategy.

This outreach effort reflects a growing acknowledgment that systemic exclusion has hindered wealth creation within the Black community for generations. “We’ve been cast aside for too long,” the BMO official said, expressing optimism about the current momentum. “It’s encouraging to see financial institutions stepping up and walking alongside the community.” The bank invites entrepreneurs to engage directly with its advisors, assuring them that support is not only available but actively being promoted as part of BMO’s corporate responsibility and growth strategy.