ARBJ — Pre-start-up program (PPE)

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.

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

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.

Here are additional relevant details for this grant:

• The financial assistance provided is non-repayable, but it cannot be considered a contribution for securing other funding partners.