Business financing in Scarborough
Options, local help and what lenders look for in Scarborough, Toronto. Apply once and we’ll match you with one financing partner.
Short answer
Businesses in Scarborough can use the same options as the rest of Toronto: bank and credit union loans, the government-backed Canada Small Business Financing Program (up to $1.15 million), BDC loans and specialist lenders. Given what Scarborough is like, equipment financing and lines of credit come up often. Enterprise Toronto offers free advice to businesses across Toronto.
Doing business in Scarborough
Toronto’s east end, with a wide mix of detached homes, townhouses and apartments, long-established family neighbourhoods and plenty of industrial and retail space.
Neighbourhoods such as Agincourt, Malvern and the Bluffs each have their own character, from post-war bungalows to newer townhouses. Prices are often lower than in central Toronto, which draws first-time buyers and growing families.
Financing for Scarborough businesses
With industrial and trade businesses nearby, equipment financing and lines of credit are common in Scarborough. Machinery and vehicles can secure the financing, which usually means better terms and keeps your line free for payroll and materials.
Scarborough’s shops, restaurants and services often finance renovations, fit-outs and seasonal inventory. A lease with enough time left on it makes lenders more comfortable funding improvements to the space.
How NorthMerit can help
Apply once and we’ll connect you with one financing partner who works with businesses like yours. It’s free, and there’s no obligation.
Where Scarborough businesses get financing
| Option | How much | What you need | Good for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Equipment financing or leasing | Up to the full cost of the equipment | The equipment secures the loan; a quote or invoice | Machinery, vehicles, technology |
| Canada Small Business Financing Program | Up to $1.15M: $1M in term loans (up to $500K for equipment and leaseholds) plus a $150K line of credit | Revenue of $10M or less; arranged through your bank or credit union; 2% registration fee | Start-ups and businesses short on collateral |
| Bank or credit union loan | Varies with revenue and security | Usually 2+ years of statements, good credit, often a personal guarantee and collateral | Established, profitable businesses |
| Alternative and online lenders | Smaller amounts, fast decisions | Bank statements and revenue history; higher cost | Short-term needs when a bank says no |
| BDC small business loan | Up to $350K, applied for online | 24 months in business, profitable, credit score of 600+, revenue of $100K+ ($250K+ above $100K) | Working capital, growth, refinancing |
Free local help
- Enterprise Toronto: free in-person guidance from small business advisors, consultations and mentorship at the City’s small business centres. Visit
- Starter Company Plus: Ontario grants of up to $5,000, plus training and mentoring, for people 18 and older starting or buying a business, delivered through local small business centres. You contribute at least 25% of the grant amount. Ontario
Sources
We checked these figures against official sources in October 2026. Rules and rates change, so confirm the details with your mortgage professional, lawyer or the source before you rely on them.
Common questions
What financing do businesses in Scarborough use most?
Where can I get free business advice near Scarborough?
Can a new business in Scarborough get a loan?
How does NorthMerit help Scarborough businesses?
More Toronto neighbourhoods
The right financing, from the right partner.
Apply once. One financing partner who knows businesses like yours. Free, with no obligation.
