The Fourth Component of ESSOR: Support for Business Internationalization
What is the ESSOR program?
What projects are covered by the fourth component?
Which companies can benefit?
What assistance is available?
How to take part?
Highlights of the fourth phase of ESSOR
- Eligible projects: The fourth component covers a wide range of export-related projects, including the acquisition of goods transit facilities, the formation of foreign joint ventures, the acquisition of international distribution networks, the acquisition of businesses outside Quebec, and the opening of commercial offices abroad.
- Business eligibility: For-profit businesses, cooperatives and social economy enterprises are eligible for these measures, with the exception of certain excluded sectors.
- Types of financial assistance: Companies can benefit from various types of financial assistance, including repayable contributions in the form of loans, loan guarantees and equity investments, as well as non-repayable contributions (grants).
- Participation process: To participate, it is essential to verify your company's eligibility, identify a relevant internationalization project, and contact 1 844 474-6367 for further information and guidance on the steps to follow.
- Support for international growth: By supporting the internationalization of businesses, the fourth component of ESSOR helps to strengthen the Quebec economy by opening up new international business opportunities.
About the author
Émile Audet
Frequently asked questions about ESSOR
What is the ESSOR program?
The ESSOR program is an Investissement Québec initiative designed to help and support Quebec companies in their growth. By focusing on digital transformation, the program aims to improve the competitiveness and development of businesses. The program contains four distinct components covering important aspects of the economic future of companies and of Quebec.
Who is eligible for ESSOR?
For-profit companies, cooperatives and collective enterprises operating in Quebec are eligible for the program. All sectors are eligible for the diagnosis and implementation of a digital plan, and can then access the projects covered by the first component. However, companies in certain sectors are not eligible to participate in the different components of the program. See our articles on Components 1, 2, 3 and 4 to learn more.
What kind of project are covered by ESSOR?
The projects covered by ESSOR aim to accelerate the growth and development of companies in Quebec. The first component covers the realization of investment projects, notably through the analysis, evaluation and implementation of digital plans. The second covers projects that improve productivity through expansion, new business creation, capacity enhancement and modernization. The third component supports projects that reduce the environmental footprint and, finally, the fourth component targets internationalization and expansion outside the Quebec market.
What type of help is offered by ESSOR
The ESSOR program offers several types of assistance. Investissement Québec supports Québec companies by offering repayable loans, loan guarantees and equity investments of less than 50%. In addition, subsidies may be offered to companies. Assistance amounts vary according to project size, type and corresponding component.
Why take part of the ESSOR program?
Participating in the ESSOR program enables companies to pursue their growth and development, while also benefiting from help with their digital transformation, an essential factor in today's environment.