How much funding can be received?

Funds up to 50% of admissible expenses, capped at $15000 per project.

What is the deadline to apply?

The deadline to apply is not specified.

Who are the financial supporters of the ARBJ — Pre-start-up program (PPE)?

ARBJ — Pre-start-up program (PPE) is funded by Administration régionale Baie-James (ARBJ)

What are ARBJ — Pre-start-up program (PPE)'s eligibility criterias?

The promoter must be 18 years of age or older. The promoter must contribute 50% of the project funding in cash. The promoter and the project must benefit the population residing in the specified regions.

ARBJ — Pre-start-up program (PPE)

Last Update: July 22, 2025

QC, Canada

Supports pre-investment activities for new businesses in Quebec

ARBJ — Pre-start-up program (PPE) at a glance

Eligible Funding

Max. $15,000
Up to 50% of project cost

Timeline

Continuous Intakes

Financing Type

Grant and Funding

Eligible Industries

All industries

Grant Providers

Administration régionale Baie-James (ARBJ)

Program status

Open

Overview of the ARBJ — Pre-start-up program (PPE) program

The ARBJ — Pre-start-up Program (PPE) aims to support pre-investment activities for entrepreneurs with a maximum funding of $15,000. Eligible activities include business plan development, financial planning, and market analysis.

Financing terms and conditions

This grant provides specific financial assistance to support pre-start-up activities with defined modalities to ensure proper allocation and usage of funds. The conditions of funding are structured to meet the objectives of eligible projects.

Maximum grant amount of $15,000.
Funding covers up to 50% of the eligible expenses.
Financial aid is in the form of a non-repayable contribution.
Contributions cannot be considered community funding or used as equity with other financial partners.

Eligible projects & activities

The Pre-start-up program (PPE) encourages a variety of activities necessary for the initial stages before investment towards establishing a business. The eligible activities focus on planning, market research, and development efforts.

Consultant fees for preparing business plans.
Consultant fees for developing financial plans.
Market analysis consultant fees.
Research and development studies deemed pertinent prior to start-up.
Creation of prototypes.
Travel and representation expenses.

Examples of admissible projects:

$ 75,000

Implementing energy-efficient systems in community housing buildings

$ 70,000

Establishing an eco-friendly urban farm for organic vegetables

$ 70,000

Creating an artisan co-op to revive traditional craftsmanship

$ 30,000

Developing a workshop series for financial literacy education

$ 80,000

Launching a sustainable packaging line for local products

$ 90,000

Developing a mobile app for remote healthcare access

Eligibility criteria of the ARBJ — Pre-start-up program (PPE) program

Companies wishing to apply for this grant must meet the following eligibility criteria.

The promoter must be 18 years of age or older.
The promoter must contribute 50% of the project funds in cash.
The promoter and the project must benefit the population residing in the cities of Chapais, Chibougamau, Lebel-sur-Quévillon, Matagami, or individuals, other than members of the Cree community, residing in the Eeyou Istchee James Bay Regional Government territory.
The promoter must not have initiated their investment phase.

Who is eligible?

Eligible applicants for the ARBJ – Pre-start-up program (PPE) include individuals intending to start a business, enterprises, non-profit organizations, and cooperatives. The applicant must be 18 years or older and contribute 50% equity to the project. The project should benefit the population residing in Chapais, Chibougamau, Lebel-sur-Quévillon, Matagami, and for individuals, excluding the Cree, residing in the regional government territory of Eeyou Istchee Baie-James. Additionally, the applicant must not have initiated their investment phase.

Eligible expenses

The eligible expenses under this grant are aimed at supporting pre-start-up activities essential for project development.

Consultant fees for business plan preparation.
Consultant fees for financial plan development.
Consultant fees for market analysis.
Consultant fees for research and development studies.
Consultant fees for any other study deemed relevant to the pre-start-up phase.
Costs associated with creating a prototype.
Travel and representation expenses.

Eligible geographic areas

This grant is available to companies operating in certain areas as defined by the regional development authority. These locations are eligible to ensure that the funding supports local economic development objectives.

Chapais
Chibougamau
Lebel-sur-Quévillon
Matagami
Territory of the Eeyou Istchee James Bay Regional Government excluding Cree residents

Eligibility criteria of the ARBJ — Pre-start-up program (PPE) program

The evaluation and selection of projects for this grant are based on several criteria to ensure their contribution to the region's economic environment and sustainable development.

Diversification of the economy with consideration for market saturation.
Experience and track record of the promoter.
Experience and track record of the consultant.
Realism and viability of the project, including objectives, timeline, and budget.
Potential impacts of the project on the sustainable development of the region.

How to apply to the ARBJ — Pre-start-up program (PPE) program

Preparation of the documentation

Fill out the contribution request form for economic development programs.
Prepare the promoter's resume.
Gather proof of registration with the REQ, if applicable.
Obtain two quotes, prioritizing businesses from the Nord-du-Québec region when possible.
Assess what other documents may be necessary for the analysis.

Submission of the application