Cassels Black-Owned Business Grant
Backing Black-owned Businesses with Capital & Counsel
| , | Program Status: Now accepting applications! Applications Open: September 15, 2026 Application Deadline: October 16, 2026 How to Apply: Visit our Application Portal (Please note: This link will open a new page on the Black Opportunity Fund website. You will be asked to register with SurveyMonkey to proceed.) |
Mission Statement
- The Cassels Black-Owned Business Grant exists to advance equity, inclusion, and long-term economic opportunity by supporting Black-owned enterprises in the communities where we work and live.
- Rooted in our belief that a diverse and inclusive business environment benefits everyone, the Grant reflects our commitment to addressing systemic funding barriers and fostering meaningful participation by Black entrepreneurs in Canada’s corporate landscape.
- Our program is differentiated by its grassroots nature. The Grant is powered by the collective contributions of Cassels firm members, who not only raise most of the funding but also lend their time, judgment, and expertise to the candidate review and selection process.
- As the program has grown, we are embracing new operational partnerships that allow us to expand the Grant’s reach while preserving its core purpose, values, and community-driven nature.
- Through continued involvement in the final review and confirmation stages, our firm members remain deeply engaged in stewarding the Grant with care and intention.
- Guided by our core values and strengthened by collaboration with our Black Affinity Group and like-minded community leaders, we aim to support businesses that will most benefit from both our legal advisory services and financial support – creating lasting impact for entrepreneurs, communities, and the broader Canadian business ecosystem.
Our Partners
For multiple years, the Cassels Black-Owned Business Grant has been generously supported by Wheaton Precious Metals. We are now excited to also be partnering with Black Opportunity Fund to maximize the impact and value of the program for applicants.
Learn More
Read a profile of one of our first grant recipients, Lola Adeyemi of It’s Souper, here.
Help Us Spread the Word!
We encourage eligible business owners — and those who know a strong candidate business — to share this opportunity within their networks. Download and share the program flyer with your network.
Questions?
Anyone with questions about the program or application process can contact our Grant Committee at grantapps@cassels.com.