ETA Funding Options in Canada?

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November 15, 2025

by a searcher from Queen's University in Kingston, ON, Canada

Hi Canadian Searchfunder Community, In the US the SBA structure gives a clear template for debt and equity. In Canada I have not found an equivalent program or a common playbook. For those who have closed or are actively searching in Canada: - What funding structures have you used for acquisition debt and investor equity? - Which lenders or programs have you found most supportive of self funded or traditional searches? Are there specific banks, mezz lenders, or family offices you would suggest I speak with? I would be grateful for any guidance.
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commentor profile
Reply by a searcher
from University of Toronto in Canada
If you haven't already started listening to Views from the Market podcast - it's a great one on the Canadian landscape including funders, folks to connect with, etc.
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Reply by a searcher
from Queen's University in Toronto, ON, Canada
The big Canadian banks and BDC are all active lenders for search fund size deals in Canada. We’ve seen LTV range from 60-80% depending on the lender and deal. A common structure for these loans is a###-###-#### year term loan with line of credit for working capital.
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