Community Interaction Program — Study/action projects

Who is eligible?

Who is not eligible

This grant is specifically designed for non-profit non-government organizations and Indigenous communities, and thus excludes other types of entities. The restrictions ensure the focus remains on community-driven environmental actions.

• Individuals looking to apply on their own.
• Departments and government agencies.
• Municipalities seeking funding.
• Educational institutions aiming to undertake projects.
• Private companies wishing to engage in for-profit activities.

Eligible expenses

This funding program supports community-driven projects aimed at conserving the St. Lawrence ecosystem through various actions. Eligible initiatives include educational, research, and conservation activities that directly impact environmental restoration and protection.

• Awareness-raising projects targeting specific environmental issues and leading to actionable outcomes.
• Studies focusing on developing action plans for practical environmental solutions.
• Study-action projects that combine research with field implementation of conservation measures.
• Restoration projects focusing on shoreline stabilization, habitat restoration, and pollution reduction.
• Biodiversity protection projects aimed at conserving and maintaining sensitive areas and species.

Eligible geographic areas

This grant is available for projects implemented in specific regions connected to the St. Lawrence ecosystem. The eligible areas encompass a variety of significant ecological sites within Quebec.

• The area between Cornwall and Gaspé on the south shore, including the Québec portion of Chaleur Bay.
• The Magdalen Islands.
• The area between Carillon and Blanc Sablon on the north shore, including Anticosti Island and the Saguenay River.
• Main tributaries and sections of secondary tributaries essential to the St. Lawrence ecosystem.

Here are additional miscellaneous information about the grant:

• The program encourages the involvement of as many people and partners as possible.
• Community support, identified needs, and benefits are considered for project assessment.
• Projects linked to Regional Integrated Management Plans (RIMPs) or other management plans are supported.
• Sufficient approvals and permits under applicable laws and regulations must be obtained to avoid delays.
• A project response is typically received 16 weeks after submission.
• The funding application must include detailed and comprehensive documents for assessment.
• There are two annual submission deadlines: March 1st and October 15th.
• Partnerships with the community are an important criterion for project assessment.
• The quality of the project is assessed on various criteria, including problem description, rationale, and community involvement.
• Sustainability tools should be put in place to ensure the long-term environmental benefits of the project.