Frequently asked questions.
What makes the Fair Finance Fund different from a traditional lender?
We use a character-based lending approach that looks beyond credit scores and collateral. We focus on relationships, business potential, and community impact, and we offer flexible repayment options when challenges arise.
Where does the Fair Finance Fund get its capital?
Our loan capital comes from impact investors through community bonds. Investors receive a fair return, and their money goes directly into financing sustainable food and farm businesses.
Where does the fair finance fund work?
We currently provide loans to enterprises across Ontario, with a focus on equity-deserving communities, Northern Ontario, and businesses that strengthen local food systems. Stay tuned for some exciting news as we look to expand across Canada.
Who is eligible for a loan?
Fair Finance Fund provides loans to food and farm enterprises based within or operating within the province of Ontario, and who can demonstrate commitment to long-term community impact through their business mission. Our clients are social enterprises across the food supply chain: farms, fisheries, markets, restaurants, bakeries, breweries, wineries, suppliers, and more.
What is the minimum and maximum loan amount I can apply for?
Loan sizes range from $20,000 to $200,000. We also track and provide smaller loans under $50,000 for eligible enterprises.
What can I use a Fair Finance Fund loan for?
Loans can be used for start-up costs, business expansion, equipment purchases, working capital, and other needs that help you grow a sustainable food or farm business in Ontario.
We do not provide loans for debt financing or consolidation.
Do I need collateral to qualify for a loan?
Loans over $50,000 require collateral. For smaller loans, collateral may not be required, but we do assess business viability and repayment capacity as part of our character-based lending approach.
How do I apply for a loan from the Fair Finance Fund?
The process starts with a short preliminary application to confirm eligibility. If approved, you’ll be invited to submit a full application with financial documents and business information. We also offer optional mentorship through our Real Assist Program to help you strengthen your application.
What is a Fair Finance Fund community bond?
A community bond is an interest-bearing loan you make to the Fair Finance Fund. Your investment earns interest over a fixed term, and at maturity, you get your principal back. All capital raised goes directly into loans for sustainable food and farm businesses in Ontario.
Who can invest in the Fair Finance Fund?
Our community bonds are open to non-accredited, accredited, and institutional investors. This means individuals, foundations, and organizations can all invest.
What is the minimum investment amount?
You can invest in increments of $5,000 or $50,000. We offer a sliding-scale interest rate of 0–3% depending on the investment type and term.
Is my investment in the Fair Finance Fund RRSP or TFSA eligible?
At this time, Fair Finance Fund community bonds are not RRSP- or TFSA-eligible. However, they are impact investments that generate measurable social and environmental benefits in Ontario communities.
How is my investment used?
100% of the capital raised through community bonds goes into our loan fund, which supports food and farm enterprises that are building sustainable local food systems, climate resilience, and stronger local economies.