How much funding can be received?

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.

grant_single_labels|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.

grant_single_labels|projects

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.

grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample

$ 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

grant_single_labels|admissibility

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.

grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply

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.

grant_eligibility_criteria|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.

grant_eligibility_criteria|zone

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

grant_single_labels|criteria

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.

grant_single_labels|register

Step 1: Verify Eligibility
Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria as outlined by the grant guidelines.
Verify the requirement for personal investment and location of the project.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Complete the economic development program contribution application form.
Prepare a comprehensive C.V. outlining relevant experience.
Collect proof of registration with the REQ, if applicable.
Obtain two quotes, preferably from companies in the Nord-du-Québec region.
Gather any other document deemed necessary for the application's analysis.
Step 3: Create Detailed Project Proposal
Include a business plan, financial plan, and market analysis.
Highlight research and development studies related to the project.
Focus on the project's potential impact on sustainable regional development.
Step 4: Review and Finalize Application
Double-check that all forms and documents meet the application requirements.
Ensure the application is complete and each form is accurately filled out.
Step 5: Submit Application
Send the completed application package to the grant provider by the specified method, which could include mail or online submission.
Confirm the receipt of your application with the grant provider, if applicable.