AQT - Young Enterprise Awards
QC, Canada
The AQT Young Enterprise Grants merge experience with youthful innovation to drive growth for Quebec's tech sector.
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- grant_single|timelineUnspecified
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Grant and Funding
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- Information and cultural industries
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- Association québecoise des technologies
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The AQT Young Enterprises Grants aim to propel the growth of emerging tech companies in Quebec by uniting experience with youth. To be eligible, companies must have their headquarters in Quebec, be incorporated under provincial or federal law, operate in the techno-digital sector, have been in existence for 18 months to 5 years, and achieve a minimum annual revenue of $500,000.
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To be eligible for the Quebec Tech Young Enterprises Grants, your company must meet specific criteria and adhere to various requirements aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion. Here's the list of eligibility criteria:
- Headquartered in Quebec
- Incorporated according to provincial or federal law
- Registered in the Quebec Business Registry
- Operate in the techno-digital sector
- Existence of 18 months to 5 years
- Annual revenue minimum of $500,000
- Concrete development plan
- No ongoing legal procedures
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
Eligible types of companies for the Bourses Jeunes Entreprises AQT grant are those which meet specific criteria and work within the techno-digital sector. These companies must also adhere to various socio-economic and legal requirements.
- Headquarters in Quebec
- Incorporated under provincial or federal law
- Registered with the Quebec business registry
- Operating within the techno-digital sector
- Between 18 months and 5 years of existence
- Annual revenue of at least $500,000
- Concrete development plan
- No ongoing legal proceedings
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The eligible geographic zone for this grant is the province of Quebec.
- Headquarters must be in Quebec
- Incorporated according to provincial or federal law
- Registered in the Quebec business registry
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Yes, there are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant. Below is a summary of the evaluation and selection criteria:
- Headquartered in Quebec
- Incorporated under provincial or federal law
- Registered in the Quebec business registry
- Operating in the techno-digital sector
- Existence of 18 months to 5 years
- Minimum annual revenue of $500,000
- Concrete development plan
- No ongoing legal procedures
- Diversity and inclusion: Advantage if CEO identifies as a woman, person with a disability, Indigenous, visible minority, or immigrant
- Good policies in social responsibility, eco-responsibility, gender parity, and EDI (equity, diversity, and inclusion)
- Commitment to contribute $100 per month for the first 12 months of membership
- Participation in activities offered as part of the grant
- Availability for the related communication campaign
- Submission of a video explaining why the company deserves to be selected
- Filled application form to be evaluated by an independent jury from AQT
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- Step 1: Assess Eligibility
- Ensure your business has its headquarters in Quebec.
- Confirm that the business is incorporated under provincial or federal law and is registered with the Quebec Business Register.
- The business should operate in the tech-digital sector.
- Verify that the business has been in existence for between 18 months and 5 years.
- Ensure the annual revenue of the business is at least $500,000.
- Ensure there are no ongoing legal proceedings against the business.
- Formulate a concrete development plan for your business.
- Step 2: Evaluate Diversity and Inclusion
- Check if the CEO identifies as a woman, person with a disability, Indigenous, visible minority or immigrant.
- Consider if your business practices good social responsibility policies, is eco-responsible, has gender parity, and adheres to equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) principles.
- Step 3: Produce a Video
- Create a video of at least 30 seconds explaining why your business deserves to be selected for the grant.
- Step 4: Complete the Application Form
- Step 5: Submit Your Application
- Ensure your application will be reviewed by an independent jury composed of AQT members.
- Step 6: Prepare for Post-Selection Requirements
- If selected, contribute $100 per month during the first 12 months of membership.
- Participate in activities offered as part of the grant.
- Be available for the communication campaign related to the grant.
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Selected companies are required to contribute a monthly fee and actively participate in activities. Additionally, they must be available for the associated communication campaign.
- Contribute 100 $ per month during the first 12 months of the membership
- Participate in the activities offered as part of the grant
- Be available for the communication campaign related to the grant
Apply to this program
Youth Enterprises Grant
The Youth Enterprises Grant by AQT aims to stimulate growth by merging experience with youthful innovation for Quebec-based tech-digital companies. Eligible firms can apply for this grant to receive financial support while demonstrating their commitment to diversity, inclusion, and social responsibility.
Detailed Overview of the Youth Enterprises Grant
The Youth Enterprises Grant by AQT is a catalyst aimed at energizing Quebec's burgeoning tech sector by infusing it with youthful vigor. This grant is specially curated for young tech companies, offering them a unique opportunity to expand their horizons, enhance their operational efficiencies, and establish themselves as strong contenders in the competitive tech landscape.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for this grant, your business must meet the following criteria: 1. Quebec Headquarters: The main office of your company should be located in Quebec. This regional focus ensures that the grant supports local businesses and stimulates the provincial economy. 2. Incorporation: Your business must be incorporated under either provincial or federal law. This requirement ensures that only legitimate and established companies apply for the grant. 3. Registration: Your company should be listed in the Quebec Business Register. This criterion provides legitimacy and authentication to your business operations. 4. Tech-Digital Sector: Your company must operate in the tech-digital sector. This focus area empowers technological innovation across various sectors, thereby enhancing the overall tech ecosystem. 5. Business Age: The company must be between 18 months and 5 years of age. This timeline is critical as it targets businesses that have moved past the nascent stage and are prepared for scaling but still require vital support to reach the next growth phase. 6. Minimum Revenue: The annual revenue should be at least $500,000. This revenue threshold ensures that your company has a proven track record and operational viability but needs additional funds to drive further growth. 7. Concrete Development Plan: A strategic plan detailing the trajectory for growth and development should be in place. A well-documented plan reflects the company’s seriousness and preparedness for expansion. 8. Legal Standing: There should be no ongoing legal proceedings against your company. Legal clearances ensure that the grant is awarded to businesses that maintain ethical practices and adhere to legal compliances.
Preferable Criteria
To promote diversity and inclusion, applications may receive additional consideration if the following apply: 1. Diverse Leadership: Priority is given if the CEO identifies as a woman, a person with a disability, an Indigenous person, a visible minority, or an immigrant. This focus aligns with broader equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) goals. 2. Social Responsibility: Companies demonstrating robust policies in social responsibility, eco-sustainability, gender parity, and EDI are highly favored. These practices indicate that the company is not just focused on profits but also on positively impacting society.
Commitment Requirements
If selected, your company must adhere to the following commitments: 1. Financial Contribution: Contribute $100 per month for 12 months as part of the membership. This fee helps maintain and support the grant program and its associated activities. 2. Active Participation: Engage in activities offered as part of the grant. Active participation ensures that your company maximizes the resources and opportunities available through the grant program. 3. Availability for Communication Campaign: Be available for a communication campaign related to the grant. This visibility opportunity highlights your company’s achievements and association with the grant program.
Application Process
The application process is structured to identify promising companies efficiently: 1. Video Submission: Produce a video of at least 30 seconds explaining why your business deserves to be selected. This video gives a personal touch to your application and provides the jury a glimpse into your company’s mission and vision. 2. Form Completion: Fill out the application form with accurate and detailed information about your company. A comprehensive application form ensures that all relevant information is considered during the evaluation process. 3. Submission and Evaluation: Submit your application for review by an independent jury of AQT members. The independent jury ensures impartiality and fairness in the selection process.
Why Apply for the Youth Enterprises Grant?
This grant offers numerous benefits that can significantly impact your company's growth trajectory: 1. Financial Boost: The grant provides essential financial support that can be allocated toward various growth initiatives, such as scaling operations, marketing, research and development, and talent acquisition. 2. Networking Opportunities: Participate in events and activities where you can network with other industry leaders, potential investors, and partners. These connections can open doors to opportunities that might have otherwise been inaccessible. 3. Increased Visibility: Being part of the communication campaign elevates your company's profile within the industry. This visibility can attract more business opportunities, partnerships, and investor interest. 4. Strategic Guidance: Gain insights from experienced members of AQT who can provide mentorship and strategic advice. Their expertise can aid in navigating challenges and leveraging growth opportunities. 5. Compliance and Best Practices: Aligning your company with the grant’s focus on diversity, inclusion, and social responsibility can improve your company’s overall governance and public image.
Final Thoughts
The Youth Enterprises Grant by AQT is more than just a financial aid program; it is a comprehensive growth accelerator designed to support young tech companies in Quebec. By merging experienced insights with youthful innovation, AQT aims to create a sustainable and diverse tech ecosystem. If your company meets the eligibility criteria and is committed to ethical practices, social responsibility, and innovation, this grant can be a significant step towards realizing your growth ambitions. Don’t miss this opportunity to advance your company’s growth trajectory while contributing to a more diverse and inclusive tech community in Quebec. Apply now and embark on a transformative journey with the Youth Enterprises Grant by AQT.