Small Business Grants in Quebec in 2026
Find Quebec SME programs that match a real growth, digital, or productivity project
Quebec offers many grant, tax credit, and financing options for small businesses investing in digital tools, equipment, productivity, commercialization, export growth, training, and operational improvement. This 2026 guide helps Quebec SMEs quickly see which funding paths fit the project they want to move forward and what administrators usually expect before a file is submitted.
Whether you are improving operations, adopting technology, preparing market expansion, or structuring a growth project, the goal is to connect the right program to the right business case. Use this page to compare common funding avenues in Quebec, understand typical eligibility rules, and avoid application errors that slow down or weaken approval.
180 opportunities available
Grant and FundingOpening Soon
PSCE – Component 2
Non-repayable funding to support SMEs’ export market diversification
Grant and FundingClosed
MAPAQ — Food Processing Program — Component 2
Enhancing productivity through food industry automation assistance
Grant and FundingOpen
ESSOR – Component 1C: Support for investment projects (implementing a digital plan)
Support for investment projects in Quebec
Grant and FundingOpen
Workforce Training Measure (MFOR)
Workforce Development Program Supporting Employee Training in Québec
Grant and FundingOpen
ESSOR – Component 1B: Support for investment projects (digital diagnostics)
Support for investment projects through digital transformation
Grant and FundingOpening Soon
PSCE – Component 1
Supports Quebec businesses in strategic supply chain integration
Grant and FundingClosed
NovaScience Program — Support for the position of innovation and commercialization manager
Ministère de l'économie, de l'innovation et de l'énergie du Québec (MEIE), Government of Canada, Gouvernment of Québec
NovaScience fund supports creating innovation and commercialization roles
Grant and FundingOpen
Employment Consultation - Human Resources Management Support
HR management support through Concertation pour l'emploi initiative
Grant and FundingClosed
Economic development program to help revitalize territories (DEPART)
DÉPART supports economic diversification and growth in targeted areas
Grant and FundingOpen
Support program for the development of reserved designations and promotional terms — Component 1
Supporting development of reserved designations and valorizing terms
Grant and FundingClosed
FAQDD — Returnable Container Recycling Equipment Modernization Program
Funding for retailer recycling equipment upgrades
Grant and FundingOpen
ESSOR – Component 1A: Support for investment projects (feasibility studies)
Investment support for feasibility studies in Quebec
Grant and FundingOpen
CED — Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative
Supports AI technology development and adoption by Canadian SMEs
Grant and FundingClosed
LTI³ Project
Digital transformation for Quebec's freight transportation sector enhancement
Partnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingOpen
Call for collaborative and structuring innovation projects in Quebec's strategic sectors
Collaborative innovation funding for Quebec's strategic sectors
Grant and FundingClosed
NovaScience Program — Support for employment in research and innovation
NovaScience supports innovation job integration in Quebec businesses
Grant and FundingOpen
Novoclimat — Construction professionals — Small Multiple-Unit Buildings
Financial support for Novoclimat certified contractors
Grant and FundingClosed
MAPAQ — Ministerial initiative Proximity — Component 1
Supporting Quebec's collective market and agritourism initiatives
Grant and FundingOpen
Regional defence investment initiative (RDII) – Quebec
Supports Quebec organizations integrating into domestic and international defence supply chains
Grant and FundingOpen
Capitale-Commerce
Financial support for commercial projects improving business offerings
Grant and FundingClosed
Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI) — Quebec
Support for Quebec manufacturing SMEs impacted by international tariffs
Grant and FundingClosed
MAPAQ — Food Processing Program Component 3 — Food quality and safety management
Funding nutritious food development projects in Québec businesses
Grant and FundingArchived
Ambition-Compétences — Training for resilience and competitiveness in employment
Enhances workforce skills amid economic challenges
Grant and FundingClosed
DEL — Expertise Financing Grant
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Grant and FundingClosed
Regional partnership and digital transformation agreement for tourism 2022-2025 – Digital development of a company
Regional partnership for digital tourism development in Quebec
Find the grant that fits your business
Young enterprises, whether located in Quebec or elsewhere in Canada, play a crucial role in economic dynamism and innovation. To support their growth and development, many financing programs are accessible, offering grants, loans, and other forms of financial support.
Grant and FundingClosed
MAPAQ — Food Processing Program — Subcomponent 4.1 - Competitiveness of slaughterhouses and cheese dairies
Supports competitiveness investments for Quebec slaughterhouses and cheese dairies
Grant and FundingClosed
MT Lab — Project Financing Program — Component 2
Innovative tourism project funding program in Quebec
Grant and FundingOpen
PME MTL — Industrial and sustainable development investment fund
Financing for sustainable projects in Montreal, Quebec
Grant and FundingClosed
Innovation Program — Stream 1 – Support for innovation projects
Innovation grant for Quebec's economic advancement
Grant and FundingClosed
Support for innovation projects
Funding for product and process innovations in Quebec
Grant and FundingOpen
Canada Book Fund Publishers Business Development — Business Planning
Business planning support for publishers
Expert AdviceLoans and Capital investmentsOpen
Green Strategy Funding
Interest-free financing for small businesses adopting eco-responsible practices
Grant and FundingOpen
Social economy enterprises — Digital transformation
Supports digital transformation for social economy business growth
Partnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingSuspended
Innovation Program — Stream 1 – Support for mobilising projects
Collaborative aerospace innovation support
Tax CreditsArchived
Tax credit for retaining experienced workers (Code 107)
Tax credit for employing experienced workers in Quebec
Grant and FundingOpen
QEPD — Diversify your economy - CED (QC)
Money to develop local economy and tourism in Quebec
Grant and FundingClosed
CRIBIQ — PARTENAR-IA — Industry
Funding for Quebec innovative collaborations in AI
Grant and FundingClosed
MAPAQ — Prime-Vert — Component 3.1
Funding for experimental agroenvironmental practice development and technology transfers
Grant and FundingOpen
PME MTL — Innovation, productivity, and sustainable development fund
Subsidizes innovation and sustainability projects in Montréal businesses
Expert AdviceLoans and Capital investmentsOpen
Digital Strategy Funding
Financing and advisory support for small business digital transformation
Grant and FundingExpert AdviceOpen
Grant for a circular economy assessment
Supports businesses in Montreal adopting circular economy practices
Grant and FundingOpen
ÉcoPerformance — Simplified Implementation
Supports simplified energy transition projects reducing fossil fuel use
Grant and FundingOpen
Laval Économique — Sustainable transition
Supports sustainable business transitions in Laval with grants
Grant and FundingOpen
Indigenous Initiatives Fund IV
Supports economic, social, and community projects for Indigenous peoples
Loans and Capital investmentsOpen
MRC Témiscamingue — Business Succession Loan
Financing for business succession in Témiscamingue
Expert AdviceLoans and Capital investmentsOpen
MRC Portneuf — Joint Investment Fund FLI/FLS
Joint financing for business growth and succession
Grant and FundingLoans and Capital investmentsOpen
MRC Abitibi — The Local Solidarity Fund (FLS)
Local financing for business projects in Abitibi
Grant and FundingOpen
PME MTL — Subsidies to support social economy initiatives
Money for social economy projects in Montreal, Quebec
Loans and Capital investmentsOpen
SADC Shawinigan — Transfer Strategy Fund
Loans for business transfer projects
Discover how much grant funding is available for your business
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Use our free grant estimator to quickly identify the available grant amounts for which your company may be eligible.
Loans and Capital investmentsOpen
MRC Rivière-du-Loup — FLI/FLS Fund and FLI Succession Fund
Local financing for business investment projects
Expert AdviceLoans and Capital investmentsOpen
MRC Arthabaska - Local Solidarity Fund (LSF)
Term financing for business start-ups and expansions
Grant and FundingOpen
MRC de Mékinac — FRR Stream 2
Mékinac Regional Development Fund fosters local growth initiatives
Grant and FundingOpen
MRC Témiscamingue — Fund YOUR SME
Financial support for digital transformation and sustainable practices
Grant and FundingOpen
innovÉÉ — SI2TEC
Supports innovative industrial projects for circular economy transition
Grant and FundingOpen
Accès-Loisirs
Free recreational and cultural activities for low-income Montreal residents
Expert AdviceLoans and Capital investmentsOpen
MRC Rimouski-Neigette — Local Investment Fund
Financing for business growth and succession
Partnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed
The Quantum Technologies innovation funding program
Collaborative quantum R&D support for Quebec businesses
Grant and FundingArchived
Business Growth — Growth support vouchers
Grant program supports strategic consultancy for business growth
Grant and FundingExpert AdviceOpen
Podium Manufacturier
Enhances manufacturing SMEs' efficiency and local supply chain ties
Tax CreditsOpen
Tax Credit for Pre-Competitive Private Partnership Research
Tax relief for collaborative R&D projects
Grant and FundingOpen
MRC Collines-de-l'Outaouais — FRR Stream 3
Support for sustainable village-centre projects
Grant and FundingLoans and Capital investmentsOpen
PME MTL — New Community Businesses
Money for community-based businesses in Montreal
Other SupportExpert AdviceLoans and Capital investmentsClosed
MRC Collines-de-l'Outaouais — Local Investment Fund (FLI) and Solidarity Fund (FLS)
Financing for local business growth and succession
Researchers And FacilitiesPartnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingOpen
CQRDA — PSO-v2b
Collaborative R&D funding for aluminum innovation
Grant and FundingOpening Soon
RCM Vallée-Du-Richelieu — Programme Innovation (PI)
Supports digital transformation projects for local businesses and organizations
Grant and FundingClosed
Support fund for the development of tourism offers
$5M fund supporting Quebec tourism development initiatives
Grant and FundingClosed
Tourism Growth Program (TGP) — Quebec
Tourism Growth Program boosts Quebec's regional tourism attractions
Other SupportGrant and FundingExpert AdviceLoans and Capital investmentsOpen
MRC Caniapiscau — FDE
Funding for business development and job creation
Grant and FundingOpen
MRC Pontiac — FRR Stream 1
Support for regional development and territorial vitality in Quebec
Grant and FundingExpert AdviceOpen
MRC Pontiac — FRR Stream 2
Support for local and regional development competence
Loans and Capital investmentsOpen
MRC de Mékinac — Local Investment Fund (FLI) and Solidarity Fund (FLS)
Local Funds support sustainable business development in Mékinac
Grant and FundingOpen
MRC Papineau —Sustainable Development Fund (SDF)
Funding for sustainable business projects
Grant and FundingClosed
MRC Kamouraska — Regional Outreach Support Program (FRR-1)
Funding for regional outreach projects
Find tailored funding for your business
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Look through over 10,000 grants, tax credits, loans and more financial aid on the helloDarwin application.
Other SupportGrant and FundingExpert AdviceLoans and Capital investmentsOpen
MRC La Matanie — Local Investment Funds
Business financing for growth and succession
R
Loans and Capital investmentsOpen
Rouyn-Noranda — FLI-FLS – Entrepreneurial Succession
Financing for business succession projects
Grant and FundingLoans and Capital investmentsOpen
MRC La Matanie — FLI Succession Stream
Grant program offers financial support for business development activities
Grant and FundingClosed
MRC Bellechasse — Social Economy Enterprise Development Fund (FDEÉS)
Financial support for social economy business development in Bellechasse
Loans and Capital investmentsOpen
MRC La Jacques-Cartier — Local Investment Fund (FLI)
Financing for business growth and succession
Grant and FundingOpen
MRC Les Basques — Business Assistance Fund / FDE
Business support for startups and growth
Grant and FundingClosed
MRC L'Islet — Child development assistance measure for the south of the territory
Support for youth-focused community projects
Grant and FundingClosed
MRC Fjord-du-Saguenay — Entrepreneurship assistance and support fund (FASE)
Entrepreneurship support fund fostering economic development
Grant and FundingLoans and Capital investmentsOpen
MRC Charlevoix-Est — Local Investment Fund (FLI) and Local Solidarity Fund (FLS)
Financing for business growth and succession
Grant and FundingClosed
Group Entrepreneurship Capital Program
Supports real estate projects for Quebec social economy enterprises
Loans and Capital investmentsOpen
MRC Drummond — Local investment funds and local solidarity funds
Financing for manufacturing investment projects
Tax CreditsOpen
Tax credits for production of multimedia titles
Support for Quebec multimedia title production
Grant and FundingOpen
MRC La Vallée-de-l’Or — Regions and Rurality Fund – Component 3 – Market Gardening Program
Funding for market gardening projects in Val-d'Or region
Grant and FundingClosed
Productivity - Small commercial companies
Funding support for Canadian business innovation and growth
Loans and Capital investmentsOpen
MRC Témiscamingue — Investment Fund Loan
Financing for business growth and succession
Grant and FundingOpen
MRC Les Etchemins — Business support policy
Non-repayable financial support for eligible business projects
Loans and Capital investmentsOpen
MRC Bécancour - Local Investment Fund (FLI) - “General” component
Term financing for business growth and acquisitions
Partnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed
Innovation in Quantum Technologies — Stream 2
Support for Quebec quantum technology innovation
Grant and FundingClosed
MAPAQ — Supporting the development of greenhouse businesses
Support for greenhouse growth and modernization
Grant and FundingExpert AdviceClosed
MRC Nicolet-Yamaska — Signature project (FRR part 3)
Funding for local ecological transition projects
Grant and FundingLoans and Capital investmentsOpen
MRC Les Etchemins — Local investment fund and local solidarity fund
Financing for business growth and start-up
Frequently asked questions about small business grants in Quebec
Clear answers on project fit, eligibility, grants versus loans, and how Quebec SMEs can find current programs in 2026.
What grants are available for small businesses in Quebec in 2026?
Quebec SMEs can find funding for innovation, equipment, productivity, digital transformation, export, hiring, training, and regional development.
- Some programs are provincial, others are federal or regional.
- Eligible costs vary widely by project type and by promoter profile.
- Many programs fund only a share of the total cost and require a business contribution.
The best match depends less on the words small business and more on the project you want to fund.
How do grants help Quebec SMEs grow?
Grants reduce the upfront cost of growth projects and make it easier to move sooner on hiring, technology, or market expansion.
- They lower project risk and the cash burden on the business.
- They can unlock larger initiatives than self-funding alone.
- They work best when paired with a realistic timeline and budget.
A grant is most useful when it accelerates a project that already makes business sense.
What makes a Quebec project eligible for funding?
Eligible projects usually create a measurable economic or operational benefit and fit the rules on company size, sector, geography, and timing.
- Innovation is not always required, but measurable impact usually is.
- Quotes, budget detail, and an implementation plan matter.
- Costs incurred before approval may be excluded.
Strong applications show why this project matters now and how the company will execute it.
How do I apply for a business grant in Quebec?
Start with the project, then shortlist programs that match your size, location, and eligible costs.
- Gather financials, quotes, timeline, and company documents before you open the form.
- Tailor the application to the funder's priorities and language.
- Leave time for claims, reporting, and follow-up questions after approval.
Applying is much easier when the budget and project description are already prepared.
What is the difference between a grant and a loan for Quebec businesses?
A grant is non-repayable if you respect the agreement. A loan must be repaid, even when the terms are favorable.
- Grants are narrower, more competitive, and tied to eligible project costs.
- Loans are often faster or more flexible for cash flow.
- Many Quebec SMEs use both in the same financing plan.
The right mix depends on whether you need project support, working capital, or both.
Are there grants for startups in Quebec?
Yes, but startup eligibility depends on stage, sector, and the nature of the project. Early-stage businesses usually need a concrete product, commercialization, hiring, or technology milestone.
- Some programs target startups directly.
- Others accept young SMEs if the project is mature enough.
- Incubators, accelerators, and regional organizations can help validate fit.
The younger the company, the more important it is to show traction and execution capacity.
How do I find the right subsidies for my business in Quebec?
The fastest method is to filter by project type, region, and business profile instead of browsing every program that exists.
- Identify whether the project is digital, equipment, hiring, export, innovation, or sustainability.
- Check whether the program is current and open before spending time on it.
- Compare eligible costs, reimbursement rate, and timing before you apply.
A short list of relevant programs beats a long list of outdated ones every time.
What else should I know about Grants and Funding for Small Businesses in Quebec?
Economic Development of Businesses in Quebec
The economic development of businesses in Quebec relies on a combination of financial support, grants, and innovation programs designed to stimulate growth and competitiveness. Businesses, whether small, medium, or non-profit, can access a variety of resources to help them achieve their projects and goals.
SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises) play a crucial role in the Quebec and Canadian economies. To support their development, the Quebec government provides several financing and grant programs. For example, companies can obtain grants for innovation projects, covering costs related to the research and development of new products or services. These grants are essential for encouraging companies to innovate and remain competitive in the global market.
In Montreal (MTL), a dynamic metropolis, many initiatives are in place to support business development. Companies in the region can benefit from specific grants for digital transformation projects, productivity improvement, and commercialization. These grants aim to strengthen the local economy by helping companies modernize their operations and adopt new technologies.
Non-profit organizations are not left out. Grants are also available for these organizations to fund projects that have a positive social and economic impact. These grants help support community initiatives and strengthen the social and economic fabric of the regions.
The Quebec government, in collaboration with various economic development agencies, offers substantial financial support to encourage businesses to undertake ambitious projects. The available grants and financing programs cover a wide range of needs, from infrastructure expansion to the adoption of sustainable practices.
Financing for Innovation Projects
Financing for innovation projects is a crucial lever for businesses seeking to stand out and remain competitive in a constantly evolving economy. In Quebec, various loan and investment programs are available to support innovative initiatives, whether technological, social, or managerial.
Companies can access loans to finance digital transformation projects. These loans cover eligible costs related to the acquisition and implementation of advanced technologies. Investments in digital technologies are crucial for improving operational efficiency, increasing productivity, and opening new market opportunities. Indigenous businesses can also benefit from these programs, with specific components to support their growth and digital transformation.
In addition to loans, financial contributions are available for social innovation projects. These contributions aim to encourage initiatives that have a positive impact on society and the local economy. Eligible projects may include community services, sustainable development programs, or initiatives to improve the quality of life for vulnerable populations.
Eligible costs in these financing programs often include expenses related to research and development, the purchase of equipment and technologies, as well as employee training. The goal is to reduce financial barriers for innovative companies and facilitate their access to the necessary resources for their growth.
Innovative management projects, such as the implementation of integrated management systems or the reorganization of internal processes, can also receive financing. These projects contribute to the transformation of businesses, making them more agile and better prepared to meet market challenges.
Obtain a Grant to Transform Your Business
Transforming your business can be a crucial step to remain competitive and innovative in the current market. In Quebec, several grants are available to help companies achieve this transformation, especially in key sectors such as agri-food, commercialization, and Indigenous initiatives.
For businesses in the agri-food sector, specific grants are available for infrastructure upgrades and process optimization. These financial aids can cover costs such as purchasing new equipment, improving facilities, and implementing advanced technologies. These grants are often non-repayable, allowing companies to reduce initial expenses and focus their resources on growth and innovation.
Indigenous businesses can also benefit from specially designed grant programs to support their development and expansion. These grants may include funds for research and the commercialization of new products, as well as initiatives aimed at preserving and promoting Indigenous traditions and cultures in a modern commercial context.
Montreal, as a major economic center, offers numerous opportunities for businesses seeking transformation. Financing plans and grants are available for companies in all sectors looking to improve their operations, integrate new technologies, and train their employees. Young companies and start-ups can access dedicated resources to support their start-up and initial development, including funds for market studies, product research and development, and the implementation of strategic business plans.
Grants can also support employee training and development activities, offering funds for educational programs and skill-building workshops. These initiatives are essential to ensure that your staff is well-prepared to manage new technologies and improved processes.
Non-profit organizations and social enterprises can find grants to support their transformation projects. These grants can cover a range of activities, from strategic planning to the implementation of community programs. By investing in these initiatives, these organizations can enhance their capacity to provide essential services and achieve their social and economic goals.
Available Grants for Digital Businesses
Digital businesses play a crucial role in the modern economic landscape, and Quebec, as well as Canada, offer various grants to support their development. These financial aids are designed to encourage innovation, improve competitiveness, and facilitate the implementation of new technological projects.
Digital SMEs in Quebec can access a range of grants to help them realize their innovation projects. The government offers financing programs covering aspects such as software development, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation. These grants aim to reduce financial barriers and allow companies to invest in cutting-edge technologies.
The Digital Business Support Program (PSEN) is an excellent example of available grants. This program offers financial support for projects aimed at improving management systems, developing online platforms, and adopting advanced digital solutions. Companies can obtain grants to cover part of the costs associated with these projects, facilitating their implementation and success.
In addition to provincial programs, digital businesses can also benefit from federal grants. For example, the Canadian Digital Adoption Program (PCAN) offers grants to help companies integrate digital technologies into their daily operations. This program aims to improve productivity and increase the competitiveness of Canadian businesses on the international stage.
Grants for digital businesses are not limited to financing technological projects. They also include aids for employee training and skill development. These grants allow companies to train their staff in new technologies and work methods, ensuring a smooth transition to advanced digital practices.
Digital businesses can also benefit from grants for research and development (R&D) projects. These grants aim to encourage innovation by funding projects that explore new ideas and technologies. Financial support for R&D allows companies to take calculated risks and invest in ambitious projects that could transform their sector.
To obtain these grants, companies generally need to submit proposals detailing their projects and demonstrating their potential for success. Eligibility criteria vary by program but often include requirements such as the size of the company, the nature of the project, and development goals.
Various Financing Options for SMEs
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Quebec have several financing options to support their growth and development. Whether in Montreal (MTL) or elsewhere in the province, SMEs can access various loan, investment, and grant programs tailored to their specific needs.
Loans for SMEs
Loans are a commonly used financing option for SMEs to cover eligible costs related to expansion, equipment purchase, or the implementation of new technologies. Financial institutions and government agencies offer loans at favorable conditions for eligible companies. These loans can help finance innovation projects, digital transformation, or infrastructure improvements.
Grants for Digital Businesses
Digital businesses can benefit from specific grants to adopt new technologies and improve their competitiveness. These grants often cover eligible costs related to the implementation of advanced management systems, the creation of online platforms, and the integration of innovative digital solutions. Programs such as the Digital Business Support Program (PSEN) are designed to facilitate these transitions.
Financing for Indigenous Businesses
Indigenous businesses can access financing programs specifically designed to support their economic and social development. These programs offer loans and grants for projects aimed at promoting sustainable growth, preserving cultural traditions, and integrating modern technologies into their operations. Financial support helps cover a wide range of eligible costs, from research and development to the commercialization of new products.
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