The Professional Loan Program assists Red River Métis Citizens in establishing their professional and entrepreneurial pathways by offering access to capital for early-career and startup requirements.

The program provides access to capital to support the transition from student to professional life, as well as professionals looking to start their own practice, including expenses related to business setup and certification.

Benefits

Non repayable grant

Competitive interest rates

Interest only payments

Payment deferral

Flexible terms

Grace period

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

  • Be a verified Red River Métis Citizen.
  • Be 18 years of age or older.
  • Have completed, or be within 12 months of completing, a recognized post-secondary or professional certification program.
  • Demonstrate the ability to cashflow loan repayments through employment, contract work, or self-employment.
  • Provide a detailed plan outlining the purpose of funds and expected professional outcomes.

Priority will be given to applicants who are pursuing professional designations in the following professions:

Healthcare professionals

  • Chiropractors
  • Dentists - General Practice/Specialists/Dental Surgeons
  • Medical doctors - General/Family Practice/Specialists/Surgeons
  • Optometrists
  • Pharmacists
  • Veterinarians
  • Psychiatrists/Psychologists
  • Chiropractors
  • Physical Therapists

Business professionals

  • Architects
  • Chartered Professional Accountants (CPA)
  • Engineers, Geologists, Geophysicists, and Geoscientists
  • Lawyers
  • Starting or joining a professional practice, or transitioning from education into an independent or contract-based career.

Eligible Uses of Funds

Funding may be used for, but is not limited to:

  • Professional licensing or certification fees
  • Purchase of tools, equipment, or software required for professional practice
  • Office or workspace setup
  • Professional insurance and initial business registration costs
  • Working capital for early-stage professionals or contractors

Personal living expenses, vehicle purchases (unless directly related to professional practice), and debt consolidation are not eligible under this program.

Loan Terms

  1. Loan Amount: Up to $250,000 (exceptions may be reviewed on a case-by-case basis)

  2. Interest Rate: Competitive fixed rate, determined by LRCC's current lending policy

  3. Repayment Term: Up to 10 years (exceptions may be reviewed on a case-by-case basis)

  4. Security: Flexible security options; personal guarantees, personal assets, co-signers may be required based on risk assessment

  5. Grace Period: Up to 6 months post-graduation for first payment (subject to approval) or interest only up to 12 months post-graduation.

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit:

  • Completed LRCC loan application form
  • Proof of Red River Métis Citizenship
  • Proof of program completion or enrollment letter (if within 12 months of graduation)
  • Resume and professional plan (including business plan, or practice proposal)
  • Budget and cashflow projections

Business Application

Personal Statement of Affairs

Business Plan Template

Unite Interactive