MRC Charlevoix-Est — Local Investment Fund (FLI) and Local Solidarity Fund (FLS)
QC, Canada
Charlevoix-Est supports local entrepreneurship and economic development
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|maxCount
- grant_single|projectCostPercent
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|openingDateDecember 19, 2017
- grant_single|grantStatusClosed
grant_single|financingType
Loans and Capital investments
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
- Manufacturing
- Professional, scientific and technical services
- Educational services
- Health care and social assistance
- Other services (except public administration)
- Public administration
grant_single|grantors
- MRC Charlevoix-Est
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|open
grant_single_labels|preview
The Common Investment Policy of the Local Investment Fund of the MRC de Charlevoix-Est aims to financially support new and existing enterprises to foster job creation in the region, offering a maximum investment of $125,000 from the FLI. Eligible activities include business startups, equipment purchases, expansion projects, and business acquisitions, with a focus on economic sustainability and job creation.
grant_single_labels|projects
The "Fonds locaux" support a variety of projects aimed at enhancing business development and stability within the MRC of Charlevoix-Est. Eligible projects focus on supporting business startups and expansions, as well as ensuring the continuity of operations through the funding of crucial resources.
- Business startups.
- Purchase or renewal of equipment.
- Acquisitions and succession planning (Relève).
- Contract financing (bridge loans pending confirmed income sources).
- Business expansion, including new product or service commercialization and export projects.
grant_single_labels|admissibility
Eligibility for this grant requires businesses to meet specific criteria related to their legal status and operational framework.
- The enterprise must be legally constituted and operate within the territory of the MRC of Charlevoix-Est with its head office in Quebec.
- It must be registered with the Quebec Enterprise Register (REQ).
- All legal forms of enterprises are eligible.
- Only businesses that are not pre-startup projects are eligible; they must be at the commercialization stage.
- For the ownership transition segment, individuals or groups acquiring at least 25% of a business's value and aiming for succession are eligible.
- Social economy enterprises are eligible if they meet specified conditions, including democratic management and operation in a market economy context.
- Businesses in the cannabis and industrial hemp industry are eligible, but only for specific legal and pharmaceutical-related operations.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
Eligible applicants for FLI Relève and other funds within the MRC de Charlevoix-Est grant must meet specified criteria related to legal establishment and operational scope.
- Any legally constituted enterprise operating within the MRC de Charlevoix-Est and registered with the Quebec Enterprise Registrar, with a head office in Quebec.
- For FLI Relève: entrepreneurs acquiring at least 25% of a company’s capital shares or equity and who intend to inject new leadership for the continuation of the business.
- Enterprises that contribute to job creation and economic development in the area.
- Individuals or groups wishing to take over an existing business.
- Organizations operating in sectors aligned with MRC's action plan and priorities.
- Enterprises demonstrating viable long-term strategic plans for growth, expansion, or modernization.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply
The grant explicitly excludes certain types of companies and industries based on their activities, ethical considerations, and compliance with legal standards. These restrictions are in place to uphold community well-being and ethical investment practices.
- Companies with more than 10% of sales derived from armaments production or sales.
- Businesses involved in the tobacco industry.
- Enterprises with irresponsible environmental practices that violate applicable legislation.
- Companies with a history of non-compliance with labor standards or human rights legislation.
- Interventions in recreational cannabis products.
- Projects in the cannabis industry for non-Health Canada approved medical products or additional cannabis-derived products.
- Any company whose products or services contradict peace, well-being, freedom, or public health.
- Organizations that are not legally constituted or do not have their headquarters in the specified region.
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
The grant covers specific expenses related to capital expenditures, technological acquisitions, and operational funding for the first year.
- Capital expenditures such as land, building, equipment, machinery, rolling stock, and incorporation fees, excluding goodwill expenses.
- Acquisition of technologies, software or package software, patents, and similar expenses, excluding research and development activities.
- Working capital needs strictly related to the company’s operations calculated for the first year of operation or the first year following an expansion project.
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
This grant is intended for companies legally constituted and operating within the jurisdiction of the regional county municipality (MRC) of Charlevoix-Est. All eligible businesses must have their headquarters situated in Quebec, Canada.
- Companies with business operations in the Charlevoix-Est MRC.
- Organizations that have their head office registered in Quebec.
grant_single_labels|criteria
The evaluation and selection of projects for this grant are based on specific criteria to ensure the alignment with the economic development and employment creation objectives of the Fonds locaux of the MRC de Charlevoix-Est.
- Viability of the enterprise: The economic permanence of the project and its ability to generate future profits and repay loans.
- Economic benefits in terms of job creation: Projects should demonstrate their ability to create and sustain employment within the region.
- Knowledge and experience of the promoters: Promoters must show relevant expertise and managerial skills. Weaknesses should be mitigated through internal and external resources.
- Employer-worker relationships: Positive rapport and sound labour relations are regarded in evaluating enterprises.
- Reliance on subcontracting and privatization: The project should not aim solely to shift economic activities or jobs between entities.
- Involvement of other financial partners: Strongly encouraged is the participation of other financial institutions and promoters' own financial contributions.
- Sustainability of the funds: The project's impact on the fund's portfolio should facilitate balance and fund longevity.
grant_single_labels|register
- Step 1: Preliminary Assessment
- Identify if your project aligns with the mission and requirements outlined in the policy, such as project type and sector.
- Ensure your business is legally constituted, has its headquarters in Quebec, and is registered with the Quebec Enterprise Register (REQ).
- Step 2: Gather Required Documentation
- Prepare a comprehensive business plan demonstrating economic viability and job creation potential.
- Compile financial documents, including past financial statements and future projections.
- Include documentation of other funding sources and support letters if applicable.
- Step 3: Submit Application to MRC
- Contact the economic development service of the MRC of Charlevoix-Est to initiate the application process.
- Complete any forms provided and submit all required documentation.
- Pay the non-refundable application fee of $250.
- Step 4: Follow-up and Review
- Await feedback from the investment committee regarding your application.
- Respond promptly to any requests for additional information or clarification.
- Step 5: Agreement and Funding
- If approved, enter into a contract with the MRC outlining financial conditions and obligations.
- Ensure compliance with all terms and conditions to receive disbursed funds.
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
Here are additional relevant details for this grant:
- The MRC, through its Mission développement Charlevoix (MDC), offers first-line technical services such as advisory services, consultation, strategic orientation, and professional aid for business plan development.
- There is an emphasis on supporting the local entrepreneurial spirit by encouraging viable business creation and growth.
- All projects are subject to an evaluation to determine the type and level of financial intervention possible.
- The MRC respects a partnership agreement with Fonds locaux de solidarité FTQ, s.e.c., influencing how investments are made jointly between the funds.
- The local investment funds act as a financial lever to secure other funding sources, like conventional loans or other capital infusions.
- There are provisions for exemptions if investment criteria cannot be met, provided there is a justified agreement between stakeholders.
- Candidates must adhere to several compliance and reporting requirements post-funding to maintain transparency and accountability.
- Specific conditions apply for projects in the cannabis and hemp industry, permissible only under certain circumstances.
- The policy undergoes annual reviews to incorporate necessary updates or changes in agreement with the Fonds locaux de solidarité FTQ, s.e.c.
Apply to this program
Joint Investment Policy for Local Investment Funds in Charlevoix-East
The Joint Investment Policy facilitates financial support for enterprises within the MRC of Charlevoix-East, focusing on fostering economic development and creating diverse job opportunities. These funds operate under a framework that aligns with the local development goals and complies with regional, provincial, and federal regulations.
Detailed Examination of the Joint Investment Policy and Its Influence on Local Economic Development
Adopted to invigorate local economic landscapes, the Joint Investment Policy of the MRC of Charlevoix-East offers a structured financial framework for businesses seeking funding through the Local Investment Funds (FLI) and Local Solidarity Funds (FLS). The policy was initially adopted in December 2017, with subsequent updates ensuring its alignment with evolving economic conditions and legislative changes, such as the foundational provisions established by Loi no 28, which facilitated municipal empowerment in local economic matters.
The core mission of these funds is to stimulate economic growth by supporting new and existing businesses that commit to creating and sustaining employment in Charlevoix-East. By doing so, the policy helps to stabilize the local job market and foster entrepreneurial spirit, ensuring a robust economic fabric. The funds are positioned as proactive facilitators in business projects, providing critical capital that can be utilized for various enterprise needs such as startup costs, expansion, acquisition, or even strategic workforce development initiatives.
One of the unique features of this policy is its comprehensive suite of support services offered to project promoters and enterprises. These services range from strategic consultancy to professional assistance in developing business plans, securing additional funding, and ensuring business continuity post-investment. This holistic approach not only aids in the successful execution of business projects but also enhances the long-term viability and competitive edge of local businesses.
Investment decisions under this policy are grounded on several crucial criteria designed to optimize fund allocation and impact. Projects must demonstrate economic viability, potential for job creation, and the entrepreneur's expertise in their field. Additionally, the policy emphasizes maintaining harmonious employer-worker relations and encourages collaboration with other financial partners to amplify the capital base for businesses receiving funds.
The policy also delineates specific parameters for eligible projects and enterprises. These include guidelines on the types of investments and sectors eligible for funding, ensuring that only projects with substantial potential for economic contribution receive support. The policy expressly excludes certain industries or business practices that do not align with its ethical and community-focused objectives, such as those with adverse environmental impacts or industries associated with social detriment.
Overall, the Joint Investment Policy stands as a cornerstone of regional economic strategy, actively contributing to the sustainable development and resilience of the MRC of Charlevoix-East’s economic landscape. By promoting diverse entrepreneurial activities and ensuring prudent management of financial resources, this policy positions Charlevoix-East as a burgeoning hub for innovative economic pursuits, yielding long-lasting benefits for its communities and stakeholders.