Grant and Funding Programs Offered by City of Montreal (MTL)

Montreal stands as a leading North American metropolis, renowned for its economic dynamism and thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.1 The City of Montreal is firmly committed to supporting its businesses, from innovative startups to established SMEs, recognizing their indispensable role in the city's vitality and prosperity. This commitment is materialized through the implementation of a multitude of support programs and financial aid.1

With an estimated population of 4,377,000 in 2025, the Montreal agglomeration offers a vast market and considerable growth potential for businesses operating there.3 This figure underscores the importance of robust economic support for a metropolis of this scale. The City of Montreal's approach to business support is not limited to a simple distribution of funds; it is part of a deliberate strategy aimed at directing economic development towards key sectors. This intervention is designed to foster a resilient and avant-garde ecosystem, with an emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and commercial vitality. Grants are thus perceived as powerful levers to shape Montreal's future economy, ensuring that public investments contribute to targeted and significant growth.

Whether it's to boost a startup, accelerate growth, stimulate innovation, or support the transition to more sustainable practices, the City of Montreal, in collaboration with its strategic partners, deploys concrete measures to offer a Montreal business grant or Montreal business financial aid specifically adapted to a diversity of entrepreneurial needs.1 At the heart of this support system is PME MTL, the City of Montreal's economic development and business support network. PME MTL plays a central and multifaceted role, not only in granting loans and subsidies, but also in offering free and personalized Montreal SME financing support, essential for navigating the funding landscape.1 The recurring mention of PME MTL as the main network indicates a centralized yet flexible approach to business support. This simplifies the journey for entrepreneurs by offering them a single point of entry for various forms of aid, and the fact that PME MTL has experts suggests a willingness to provide integrated, high-quality service, thereby reducing complexity for applicants and potentially increasing the success rate of funded projects through informed advice.

PME MTL is the cornerstone of business support in the Montreal territory. Structured as a network of decentralized service hubs, its fundamental mission is to stimulate entrepreneurship, foster the creation and retention of sustainable jobs, and actively contribute to the overall economic development of the metropolis.6

The network offers comprehensive Montreal SME financing support, covering all stages of a company's life cycle: from initial startup to growth, including the complex challenges of business transfer. This support is characterized by its free and personalized nature, provided by dedicated specialists who guide entrepreneurs in validating their concept, optimizing their business plan, analyzing their financial forecasts, and identifying the most relevant funding opportunities.1 The emphasis on free and personalized support, consulting services, and a vast business network reveals that PME MTL is not limited to simply distributing funds. It acts as a true ecosystem facilitator, providing crucial non-financial support, often as vital as capital for a business's success. This holistic approach indicates a recognition that financial aid alone is not enough; businesses need advice, mentorship, and connections to thrive. This implies a long-term investment in the overall health and resilience of Montreal's entrepreneurial landscape.

Beyond access to grants, PME MTL enhances its offering with information workshops, online resources and advice, and strategic guidance towards specialized partners. Their experts are invaluable allies for structuring a project's financial package and successfully navigating the intricacies of the application process.6 PME MTL manages and distributes several investment funds and grants, making it the primary channel for accessing a diverse PME MTL funding program adapted to Montreal's entrepreneurial realities.4

The funds managed by PME MTL are specifically designed to create and support viable businesses, finance their startup, expansion, acquisition, and consolidation. The ultimate goal is to accelerate employment development and strengthen businesses' contribution to Montreal's economic dynamism.6 PME MTL's stated objectives, such as accelerating employment development and contributing to Montreal's economic development, demonstrate that funding and support are not arbitrary but aligned with the City's broader economic development goals. By focusing on viable businesses and different stages of their life cycle, PME MTL ensures that its investments generate positive and sustainable economic impacts, rather than short-term gains. This reflects a sophisticated understanding of economic levers and a commitment to fostering a robust and diversified economy.

The City of Montreal, primarily through its PME MTL network, offers a wide range of grants, each designed to meet specific business needs. These aids target innovation, sustainable development, commercial revitalization, social economy support, and much more. Each PME MTL grant program is structured to maximize its impact on the dynamism and growth of Montreal's entrepreneurial ecosystem.1

The multiplicity and specificity of grant programs reveal a highly diversified funding strategy. This indicates that the City of Montreal recognizes the varied needs of its business community and aims to provide tailored support rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. This diversification allows for precise interventions in sectors deemed strategic for the city's economic health and social development, such as promoting innovation, supporting local commerce, and strengthening the social economy.

Here is an overview of the main grant programs available, facilitating the search and identification of the most relevant funding opportunities for entrepreneurs:

Grant for business matching: This program aims to support the commercialization of innovations by encouraging partnerships between emerging businesses and large organizations. It can offer a grant of up to $50,000 to cover costs related to the development and implementation of matching projects. Emerging businesses developing a matching project are eligible.

Innovation, productivity, and sustainable development fund: This fund aims to catalyze Montreal business innovation grants, improve productivity, and integrate the circular economy. It can award a grant of up to $50,000, covering up to 80% of the project cost. To be eligible, a business must be legally incorporated in Montreal, present a business plan, financial forecasts, a sustainable development approach, and a 20% equity contribution. Eligible expenses include innovation commercialization, technological equipment, clean technologies, and sustainable development practices.

Open innovation grant for emerging businesses: This program facilitates collaborations between startups and established organizations to develop innovative solutions. The grant can reach $50,000, representing 50% of the project cost. Startups less than 5 years old, with annual revenue under $2 million, at least two employees, majority Canadian capital, and a partnership with a large organization (which must contribute 10% of the cost) are eligible. Eligible expenses include staff remuneration, professional fees, equipment purchase or rental, and certification fees. This program is a concrete example of a Montreal open innovation grant.

Commerce-Montreal program: This program encourages the renovation of commercial premises and aims to stimulate the local economy. It can cover 40% of the cost of eligible works, up to a maximum of $50,000. Owners and tenants of businesses in Montreal are generally eligible, with certain exclusions (e.g., industrial buildings or businesses with more than 5 branches). Additional points are awarded for projects that aim to occupy vacant premises, facilitate universal accessibility, or concern new food businesses in underserved areas. Eligible works include interior and exterior renovations (roofing, framework, plumbing, electricity, accessibility). This program is a form of Montreal commercial accessibility grant.

Social Economy Development Fund (FDÉS): This fund offers financial support to social economy enterprises and non-profit organizations for their startup, growth, and consolidation. The grant can range from $5,000 to $50,000. Social economy enterprises or non-profit organizations based in Montreal, with self-financed revenues (at least 20%), creating or maintaining jobs, and providing a 20% equity contribution are eligible. Eligible expenses include capital expenditures, technology acquisition, working capital, and professional fees.

Grant for works in buildings occupied by social economy enterprises: This program supports the acquisition, construction, renovation, or expansion of buildings for social economy enterprises. It can cover 40% of the project cost, up to a maximum of $400,000. Social economy enterprises are eligible, and costs related to real estate acquisition, construction, renovation, and expansion are eligible.

Commercial Entrepreneurship Fund: This fund aims to stimulate the development of projects in the retail sector. Financial aid of up to $25,000 can be allocated, not exceeding 80% of the total project cost. Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or CSQ holders, whose business is legally incorporated in Montreal, with a business plan and a 20% equity contribution, and who add value to the commercial offering, are eligible. Expenses are generally related to startup and commercial development costs.

Youth Business Fund (JE): This grant is intended for business startup or expansion and must be combined with a loan from the PME MTL Fund. It is a non-reimbursable contribution of a maximum of $15,000. Businesses less than 5 years old located on the island of Montreal, presenting a viable business plan and whose entrepreneur works full-time (minimum 35 hours per week) are eligible. Eligible expenses include equipment purchase, leasehold improvements, marketing, and working capital. This program is an example of a Montreal emerging business support program.

Collective Youth Businesses: This program offers funding for the creation of new collective businesses (less than 5 years old). It provides a minimum funding of $23,000 in the form of a scholarship, grant, and loan. To be eligible, the business must be a new collective business less than 5 years old on the island of Montreal, be a member of Caisse d'économie solidaire Desjardins, and present a viable project.

INNOGEC Fund: This fund is designed to cover a portion of the fees for management and governance consultants for collective businesses. It can award a non-reimbursable contribution of a maximum of $15,000, covering up to 40% of the total cost of fees. Collective businesses in Montreal, supported by a PME MTL center, with a strategic intervention project and complementary financial resources, are eligible.

Grant for the rehabilitation of contaminated land: This program aimed to finance the decontamination of private and municipal land. It could cover 15% to 75% of eligible expenses, up to a maximum of $500,000. Projects had to comply with Quebec laws, provide for complete rehabilitation, use a traceability system, and prioritize in situ treatment. Eligible expenses included off-site transport and disposal, on-site treatment, and in situ treatment. It is important to note that this program no longer accepts new applications as of December 31, 2023.12

The recurring presence of terms such as "sustainable development," "circular economy," "clean technologies," and "sustainable industrial buildings" forms a strong thematic thread across these programs.1 This means that the City not only promotes growth but sustainable growth. Businesses that align with environmental responsibility and innovative, resource-efficient models are clearly prioritized. This reflects a broader global trend towards green economies and positions Montreal as a leader in promoting environmentally friendly business practices. The concept of a Montreal sustainable industrial building grant is integrated into broader sustainable development objectives, highlighting the city's holistic approach.

Programs like the Montreal open innovation grant and the Business Matching Grant 1 highlight a deliberate strategy to foster collaboration between emerging businesses and large organizations. This suggests a recognition that innovation often thrives at the intersection of startup agility and the resources and market access of established companies. By incentivizing these partnerships, Montreal seeks to accelerate the commercialization of new ideas and address complex urban challenges, thereby creating a virtuous cycle of innovation and economic impact. This also implies a forward-looking approach to maintaining the city's competitive advantage in key sectors. These initiatives are a concrete example of a Montreal emerging business support program.

Dedicated funds such as the Social Economy Development Fund and the Grant for Works in Buildings Occupied by Social Economy Enterprises 4 demonstrate that the social economy is considered a distinct and important sector by the City. This is not merely a subcategory of general business support; it is a recognition of the unique social and economic contributions of cooperatives and non-profit organizations. This indicates a commitment to a more inclusive and community-oriented economic development model, where social impact is valued as much as financial viability.

It is crucial to note the evolving nature of grant programs. For example, the Contaminated Land Rehabilitation Grant has not accepted new applications since December 31, 2023.12 Similarly, the Commerce-Montreal Program has specific eligibility periods.13 This means that funds are limited and programs may be adjusted or closed. Therefore, entrepreneurs must stay informed and act quickly when opportunities arise. This highlights the importance of consulting the most recent information and points to a potential challenge for applicants if they do not regularly engage with PME MTL.

While each PME MTL grant program has its specificities, several Montreal business grant eligibility criteria are recurrent and form the basis of any Montreal business financial aid application to the City or PME MTL. Understanding these requirements is the crucial first step towards obtaining a Montreal business grant.

Here are the common requirements and key documents frequently requested, serving as a practical checklist for entrepreneurs:

Legal status and registration: The business must be legally incorporated as a legal entity and duly registered. Documents such as a certificate of incorporation or the Quebec Enterprise Register (REQ) business number are generally required.

Geographic location: The business's primary place of business and head office must be established within the Montreal territory (island or agglomeration, depending on the program). Proof of address, such as a commercial lease or utility bill, as well as an occupancy certificate, may be requested.

Citizenship or residency: The entrepreneur or key executives must be Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or hold a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ). A copy of identification or proof of permanent residency/CSQ is necessary.

Business plan and financial forecasts: The submission of a solid business plan or project summary is essential, accompanied by realistic financial forecasts, often for two years. For established businesses, compiled financial statements for the last two fiscal years are frequently required. These documents are crucial for proving the financial soundness and viability of the project.

Mandatory equity contribution: A self-contribution from the business is generally required, ranging from 15% to 20% of the total project cost. Proof of available equity, such as bank statements, or commitment letters from co-investors, may be requested.

Job creation or retention: The business must demonstrate its ability to create new jobs or retain existing ones. Job projections in the business plan, an organizational chart, or job descriptions may be necessary.

Project viability and profitability: The project must demonstrate its long-term economic viability and clear profitability potential. A market analysis, feasibility studies, and revenue and expense projections are often required.

Sustainable development approach (if applicable): For programs focused on sustainable development, a clear description of the company's strategic approach to the matter is essential. This may include a sustainable development policy, an CSR report, or environmental certifications.

Regulatory compliance: Compliance with current laws and regulations, such as the Charter of the French Language and the Register of Ineligible Enterprises for Public Contracts (RENA), is imperative. A declaration of the Charter of the French Language and a RENA verification may be required.

Absence of double funding: The project must not already benefit from direct financial support from the City of Montreal for the same expenses. A sworn declaration or a list of already obtained funding may be requested.

Project not started: Works or projects must generally not have started before the application's eligibility declaration date. A declaration on the project start date may be required.5

The recurring requirement for a mandatory equity contribution and the need to demonstrate project profitability and viability are not arbitrary.4 They constitute crucial risk mitigation strategies for funding organizations. By requiring entrepreneurs to invest their own funds, the City ensures a higher commitment and greater confidence in the project's success. The rigorous evaluation of business plans and financial forecasts helps filter out non-viable projects, ensuring that public funds are allocated to businesses with the greatest potential for positive economic returns and sustainability. This implies prudent and responsible management of public funds.

The mention of compliance with the Charter of the French Language 12 and the Register of Ineligible Enterprises for Public Contracts (RENA) 12 underscores that grant applications are not isolated from broader regulatory frameworks and public policies. This indicates that the City uses its funding mechanisms to reinforce compliance with provincial laws (such as language requirements) and to ensure ethical business practices (by avoiding ineligible entrepreneurs). This adds a layer of complexity but also ensures that funded businesses operate within established legal and ethical standards in Quebec and Montreal.

Obtaining a Montreal business grant is a structured process that requires preparation, rigor, and a good understanding of the steps. Here is a detailed guide on how to obtain a business grant in Montreal, thereby maximizing your chances of success:

1. Thorough eligibility verification: Before investing time and resources in preparing a file, it is imperative to confirm that your business and project strictly comply with all Montreal business grant eligibility criteria of the targeted program. This includes verifying the precise location in Montreal, your company's legal status, the conformity of your financial forecasts, and the ability to provide the required equity contribution.4

A robust and convincing business plan: This document is the cornerstone of your application. It must clearly and detailedly present the viability, potential profitability, and growth plan of your project. A well-structured business plan demonstrates your professionalism and understanding of the market.

Detailed and realistic financial forecasts: Credible financial projections, covering at least two full fiscal years, are essential. For established businesses, compiled financial statements for the last fiscal years are often required. This data is crucial for proving your company's financial soundness and the relevance of your City of Montreal business funding application.4

Program-specific documentation: Gather all documents required by the chosen program, such as proof of legal incorporation, resumes of key management team members, recent photos (for commercial renovation projects), and compliance declarations (e.g., the Charter of the French Language Declaration).15

Sustainable development approach (if applicable): For grants focused on Montreal business innovation grants or Montreal business sustainable development grants, a clear and documented description of your strategic approach to sustainable development is essential.9

The detailed requirements regarding business plans, financial forecasts, and strategic approaches suggest that the application process itself is designed as a rigorous strategic planning exercise for the entrepreneur.4 It forces applicants to deeply analyze their project's viability, market potential, and financial implications. This indicates that the City and PME MTL are not just looking for a good idea, but a well-thought-out and professionally presented business case. This process, even if the grant is not obtained, provides significant value to the entrepreneur by refining their business model and improving their management skills.

Identify the PME MTL center corresponding to your territory by using the service hub map or by entering your postal code.6

Contact PME MTL experts. Their Montreal SME financing support service is free and personalized. They are able to validate the relevance of your project, advise you on the most suitable financial package, and guide you step-by-step in preparing and submitting your application, significantly increasing your chances of success.1 The expertise offered by PME MTL is an invaluable resource. Their advisors have in-depth knowledge of programs and expectations, and can help you avoid common pitfalls, thereby maximizing your chances of obtaining a Montreal business grant.

4. Official application submission: Once your file is complete and has been validated, ideally with the help of PME MTL experts, submit it via the online platforms or at the specific addresses indicated for each program.9

5. Evaluation and post-grant follow-up process: Your application will undergo a rigorous evaluation by an investment committee. If approved, regular follow-up will be required, including the submission of quarterly progress reports and a detailed final report on the project's impact and completion.9 It is important to note that projects must generally begin within six months of application approval.9 The evaluation period may vary, but some programs, such as the open innovation grant, aim for eligibility confirmation within 30 business days.15 Transparency and rigorous accountability are expected throughout the duration of the funded project.

The emphasis on verifying eligibility conditions and fund availability, as well as specific submission deadlines and project start dates, highlights the critical need for proactive engagement and strict adherence to administrative procedures.9 This implies that successful applicants are likely those who are well-organized, diligent in their research, and responsive to requirements, rather than those who simply have a good idea. The system rewards preparation and rigor, reflecting a pragmatic approach to managing public funds.

Beyond non-reimbursable grants, PME MTL offers a comprehensive range of City of Montreal business funding solutions in the form of loans. These loans are often designed to complement grants, thereby allowing for a robust financial package tailored to the specific needs of the business. They are available for various development phases and for a wide range of business sectors.

The PME MTL Funds and Montreal Local Solidarity Fund (FLS Montreal) offer loans to support working capital, acquisition of tangible assets, marketing expenses, purchase or renewal of equipment, business acquisition (succession and transfer), and intellectual property protection. The FLS Montreal can grant loans of up to $100,000, while the PME MTL Fund can reach $300,000.4 The Innovation Investment Fund offers loans of a maximum of $150,000 specifically dedicated to innovation projects. Repayment terms are variable, and interest rates are adjusted based on the project's risk level.4 These loan options are often flexible and can serve as leverage to facilitate access to other external funding sources, whether private or institutional.4

The fact that PME MTL offers both grants and loans, and that some grants must be combined with loans (e.g., the Youth Business Fund or the Innovation, Productivity, and Sustainable Development Fund), indicates an integrated and sophisticated financial strategy. Grants often act as a catalyst or leverage to unlock larger loan amounts or attract other private investments.4 This suggests that the City aims to maximize the impact of its non-reimbursable contributions by using them to reduce project risk for traditional lenders and encourage broader investment in Montreal businesses. It's about building a comprehensive financial package, not just an isolated grant.

Montreal SME financing support is not limited to the initial granting of financial aid. PME MTL is committed to offering continuous and proactive support. This includes strategic business development consulting services, valuable assistance for validating the financial package, active support in seeking additional funding, and privileged access to a vast business network.6 This support is crucial for sustained business growth, strategic development, and even complex business transfer processes. Mentoring services are also available, offering expert guidance and experience sharing to help entrepreneurs navigate challenges.6 The continuous support and consulting services for growth and even business transfer underscore a long-term vision for business development. PME MTL does not just fund projects; it invests in the sustainable success and longevity of businesses in Montreal. This holistic support model, from creation to transfer, demonstrates a commitment to building a stable and resilient economic base, rather than just short-term interventions. It highlights the understanding that successful businesses contribute to the overall economic fabric over many years, not just during their initial funding phase.

For entrepreneurs aspiring to obtain a Montreal business grant, a strategic approach and rigorous preparation are essential. Here are practical tips to maximize your chances of success:

Develop an impeccable business plan: Your business plan is your most important document. It must be clear, concise, realistic, and demonstrate a thorough understanding of your market, your business model, the composition and skills of your team, as well as your financial projections. A well-crafted plan is proof of your seriousness and preparation.4

Ensure clear and realistic financial projections: Numbers are the language of investors. Credible financial forecasts, supported by solid assumptions, and adequate personal or external equity are essential to reassure investment committees about the viability and potential return on investment of your project.4

Demonstrate your project's impact and alignment: Explicitly highlight how your project contributes to the City of Montreal's strategic objectives. Whether it's job creation, a Montreal business innovation grant, a Montreal business sustainable development grant, commercial revitalization of a neighborhood, or social impact, clear alignment with municipal priorities will significantly increase your chances of obtaining a Montreal business grant.1

Proactively engage with PME MTL advisors: Never underestimate the value of the expertise and advice offered by PME MTL. Seek their help from the very first stages of your reflection. Their in-depth knowledge of programs, criteria, and the evaluation process is invaluable and can help you structure your file optimally and avoid common mistakes.6 While financial statements and business plans are crucial, the advice to demonstrate project impact and alignment and to proactively engage with advisors highlights the importance of interpersonal skills in the application process. This suggests that successful applicants are not only financially savvy but also strategic and articulate communicators who can effectively convey their vision and build relationships with advisors. This implies that the evaluation process goes beyond a simple checklist, incorporating an assessment of the entrepreneur's commitment, vision, and ability to collaborate, which are key indicators of long-term success.

Be patient and persistent: The grant application process can be long and demanding. Perseverance, the ability to incorporate evaluators' feedback, and to adjust your file are essential qualities for successfully navigating this journey.

Stay informed and responsive: Grant programs can evolve, be updated, or run out of funds. Regularly consult the official websites of the City of Montreal and PME MTL for the latest information and be prepared to act quickly when new opportunities arise.12

The City of Montreal, through its dynamic PME MTL network, asserts itself as an essential and unwavering partner in entrepreneurship. The impressive range of Montreal business grants and Montreal business financial aid available demonstrates a strong and coherent political will to support businesses at every crucial stage of their life cycle.1 This commitment covers startup, expansion, innovation initiatives, and the transition to more sustainable and socially responsible business models.

For Montreal entrepreneurs, these programs are not just financial aids; they represent concrete and structured opportunities to transform their innovative ideas into tangible successes. They enable the stimulation of innovation, improved productivity, and active contribution to the economic vitality of a constantly evolving metropolis. By fully leveraging Montreal SME financing support and the various forms of City of Montreal business funding offered, businesses can not only secure the necessary capital but also integrate into an ecosystem conducive to sustainable and significant growth. Montreal's dynamism and prosperity intrinsically rely on its businesses' ability to innovate, adapt, and thrive, and the City is resolutely committed to helping them do so.