ARBJ — Business start-up, expansion and succession program (PDERE)
Eligible applicants for the ARBJ Business start-up, expansion, and succession program (PDERE) include enterprises, non-profit organizations, and cooperatives. These entities must act in the interest of the population residing within the cities of Chapais, Chibougamau, Lebel-sur-Quévillon, Matagami, and non-Cree individuals in the Eeyou Istchee Baie-James regional government territory. Additionally, applicants must be at least 18 years of age and contribute financially to the project. Collaboration with other financial partners is also required.
Overview
The ARBJ's Business Start-up, Expansion and Succession Program (PDERE) supports the launch, growth, and transfer of businesses, offering up to a maximum of $125,000 in financial aid. Eligible activities include salary expenses, acquisition costs for services and equipment, marketing, and prototype creation.
At a glance
Funding available
- Increase performance through digital transformation
- Develop a new product or service
- Develop an online presence
- Maximum amount : 125,000 $
- Up to 35% of project cost
Eligible candidates
- All industries
- Nord-du-Québec
- Quebec
- Non-profit
- Non-financial cooperative
- For-profit business
- Sole proprietorship
- All revenue ranges
- All organization sizes
- Rural or Northern Residents
- Startups
- Economic, Social and Community Development
- Employment and Training
- General public
- Rural / Remote communities
- Business owners / entrepreneurs
- All structures
- Local
- Regional
Next Steps
Activities funded
This program serves to bolster initiatives related to business initiation, growth, and ownership transition. The eligible activities encompass a broad range of financial and operational improvements tailored to enhance economic viability and sustainability.
- Salaries and social contributions for staff working on the project.
- Acquisition costs associated with services, equipment related to the project, and project-specific shares.
- Expenditures related to office supplies, utilities, telephone services, and insurance premiums.
- Cost of leasing and maintaining project-related equipment and office spaces.
- Professional fees essential for the project’s success.
- Marketing expenses including advertisements and promotional activities.
- Working capital to sustain project operations.
- Fees associated with relevant registrations.
- Costs involved in prototype creation.
- Travel and representation expenses directly linked to the project.
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
Eligible applicants for the ARBJ Business start-up, expansion, and succession program (PDERE) include enterprises, non-profit organizations, and cooperatives. These entities must act in the interest of the population residing within the cities of Chapais, Chibougamau, Lebel-sur-Quévillon, Matagami, and non-Cree individuals in the Eeyou Istchee Baie-James regional government territory. Additionally, applicants must be at least 18 years of age and contribute financially to the project. Collaboration with other financial partners is also required.
Who is not eligible
This program is available to certain types of entities, but specific ineligible companies or industries are not detailed. Restrictions focus on aligning projects with regional benefits and ensuring equitable financial conditions.
- Entities that have already completed the project's investment phase.
- Businesses attempting to relocate outside the designated regional areas.
- Companies where the promoter or their affiliates have a vested interest in consulting expenses.
- Residential, commercial, or industrial rental property projects, excluding business incubators.
Eligible expenses
The ARBJ — Business start-up, expansion and succession program (PDERE) allows for a range of eligible expenses that support project development and execution.
- Salaries and social charges associated with the project.
- Costs for acquiring services, equipment related to the project, and relevant shares.
- Office supplies, utilities, telephony, and insurance expenses.
- Rental and maintenance costs for equipment and office spaces.
- Professional fees for necessary services.
- Marketing expenses, including advertisements and promotions.
- Working capital to support project operations.
- Relevant registration fees.
- Costs for creating a prototype.
- Travel and representation expenses directly linked to the project.
Eligible geographic areas
This grant is focused on companies and projects that benefit specific geographical regions within Quebec. Eligible businesses must operate within designated territories to qualify for funding.
- Chapais
- Chibougamau
- Lebel-sur-Quévillon
- Matagami
- Territory of the Eeyou Istchee James Bay Regional Government (excluding Cree individuals)
Selection criteria
The evaluation and selection of projects under the ARBJ — Business start-up, expansion, and succession program (PDERE) focus on a range of criteria to ensure effective use of resources and alignment with regional development goals.
- Diversification economic (saturation of the market).
- Experience and track record of the promoter.
- Realism and viability of the project (objectives, timeline, budget).
- Potential impacts of the project on the sustainable development of the region.
- Trust index (risk management).
- Nature of the financing sought.
- Involvement of the promoter (type of capital contribution, time dedicated to the business, etc.).
- Financial situation of the business.
- Extent of complementary financing.
- Regulatory compliance.
- Employment creation generated by the project.
How to apply
Here are the steps to submit an application for the ARBJ — Business start-up, expansion and succession program (PDERE):
- Step 1: Verify Eligibility
- Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria, including being 18 years or older and ensuring the benefit of the population residing in specified territories.
- Confirm the involvement of other financial partners and your own contribution to the project.
- Step 2: Complete the Application Form
- Download and complete the application form for economic development programs thoroughly.
- Provide all necessary personal and project details.
- Step 3: Prepare Required Documents
- Compile a comprehensive business plan and financial statements covering three years.
- Gather a C.V. and personal financial statement, if applicable.
- Attach proof of registration with the REQ and a shareholders' agreement, if relevant.
- Include at least two quotes, preferably from businesses in the Nord-du-Québec region.
- Step 4: Submit Application
- Ensure all forms and documents are completed and compiled accurately.
- Submit the application through the specified channel as directed in the application form or guidelines, ensuring timely submission before any deadlines.
- Step 5: Confirmation and Follow-Up
- Upon submission, await confirmation of receipt.
- Save any confirmation and application numbers for your reference and follow up if necessary.
Additional information
Here are additional relevant details for this grant:
- The financial support is subject to a tiered calculation system, influencing the percentage of the initial contribution required.
- The nature and type of financial vehicle provided, such as equity, loan, or grant, will be determined through dossier analysis.