PAPDE is now open: up to $3M for economic development projects

The Programme d’appui aux projets de développement économique (PAPDE) is now accepting applications. This Québec government program supports projects that promote entrepreneurship, the development of strategic sectors and regions, as well as exports and foreign investment attraction. It has three streams and offers non-repayable financial contributions.

Up to $3M for a project

PAPDE can provide up to $1M per project, per year, for a maximum of $3M over three years, depending on the stream and applicant type. Assistance rates can reach 70% of eligible expenses for certain social economy enterprises. Organizations can receive up to 60%, while eligible for-profit businesses under Stream 2 can receive up to 40%. The stream dedicated to exports and foreign investment attraction offers up to $500,000 per organization, per year.

Who is it for?

The program is intended, among others, for non-profit organizations, social economy enterprises, economic development organizations, educational institutions and research centres, as well as municipalities and regional county municipalities (MRCs). Certain private businesses may also be eligible, mainly under Stream 2.

PAPDE is not a general subsidy intended to finance a small or medium-sized business’s regular investments. Projects must generally have a structuring, collective, sectoral or regional scope and align with the program’s priorities.

A project’s scope may translate into benefits for several businesses, an industry, a community or a region. Applicants should therefore be able to explain the need addressed by the project, the expected results and how the financial assistance will help achieve them.

What types of projects are eligible?

Projects may include technological, commercial or competitive positioning studies; initiatives addressing a common issue faced by several businesses; training, support or mentoring activities; and the creation of tools, platforms and resources for entrepreneurs.

The program can also support networking events, missions and promotional activities, collaborative innovation projects, support for businesses entering international markets and projects designed to attract foreign investment to Québec.

Until March 31, 2029

Applications may be submitted under the current program until March 31, 2029. Organizations should nevertheless start preparing now: each project is assessed individually and must align with government priorities and the needs of its sector or region.

Review the official program details on the Québec government website: Learn more about PAPDE.

Check my PAPDE eligibility

Before applying, confirm the stream that matches your project, your potential assistance rate, eligible expenses and the documents required. This verification will help you prepare a file that is consistent with the program’s objectives.