Digital Shift Support Fund
Saguenay, QC, Canada
Digital transformation support fund for Saguenay businesses
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|maxCount
- grant_single|projectCostPercent
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|timelineUnspecified
grant_single|financingType
Grant and Funding
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- Manufacturing
- Information and cultural industries
- Professional, scientific and technical services
grant_single|grantors
- Promotion Saguenay
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|open
grant_single_labels|preview
The Fonds de soutien au virage numérique provides financial support up to a maximum of $35,000 to stimulate digital transformation for businesses in Saguenay. Eligible activities include acquiring digital solutions, professional strategic planning services, and implementing technology projects to enhance productivity and competitiveness.
grant_single_labels|projects
Eligible projects for this grant include those that align with the digital transformation objectives of businesses in Saguenay. These projects focus on enhancing productivity, efficiency, and competitiveness through the adoption of new technologies.
- Engaging external expertise for digital transformation (e.g., diagnosis, implementation of a digital plan).
- Establishing or optimizing an online sales platform (order management, payments, inventory).
- Establishing or optimizing an online reservation platform.
- Establishing or optimizing an online training platform.
- Acquiring and implementing a CRM for customer and supplier management.
- Acquiring and implementing an ERP system.
- Acquiring technology or tools to enhance productivity (automation, robotization).
- Developing technologies, applications, software, or integrated software solutions to improve productivity.
- Any other digital project that addresses challenges in profitability, workforce, or efficiency.
grant_single_labels|admissibility
To be eligible for this grant, companies must meet the following criteria:
- Be an individual enterprise with a NEQ (Quebec Enterprise Number).
- Be a corporation.
- Be a general partnership (SENC).
- Be a social economy enterprise conducting primarily commercial activities (NPO, cooperative).
- Have their headquarters and main activities located in Saguenay.
- Be operating in Quebec for one (1) year or more.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
The grant is specifically designed for businesses located in Saguenay that are undertaking digital transformation projects. Eligible companies span various structures, including individual enterprises and social economy businesses.
- Individual enterprises with a NEQ.
- Corporations (Société par actions).
- Partnerships (SENC).
- Social economy enterprises conducting mostly commercial activities (such as non-profit organizations and cooperatives).
- Businesses with headquarters and main activities in Saguenay.
- Companies operating in Quebec for at least one year.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply
Some companies and industries are not eligible for this grant, with restrictions primarily related to their status and main activity. Below are the types of companies or industries that cannot apply:
- Private enterprises in the financial sector;
- Financial cooperatives;
- Companies operating in the retail or restaurant sectors;
- Companies whose main purpose is protected under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (e.g., religion, politics, advocacy);
- Companies registered in the Register of Enterprises Ineligible for Public Contracts.
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
Eligible expenses for this grant include professional fees and the acquisition and development of technologies aimed at digital transformation:
- Professional fees of firms specializing in digital transformation related to the project
- Acquisition of technologies including know-how, licenses, or manufacturing agreements
- Acquisition of software, packages, or similar expenses
- Acquisition of equipment and assets
- Development of technologies, applications, software, or packages aimed at improving productivity
- Other digital transformation expenses deemed acceptable by the committee
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
Eligible companies for this grant must have their headquarters and principal activities located in Saguenay, Quebec. The funding body, Promotion Saguenay, supports businesses in the Saguenay region.
- Saguenay, Quebec, Canada
grant_single_labels|criteria
The evaluation and selection of projects for this grant are based on several criteria.
- The feasibility of the project realization (timelines, costs, resources, partners, funding)
- The relevance of the project and demonstration of resolved issues
- The anticipated medium and long-term impacts (efficiency, productivity, competitiveness)
- The sustainability of the project following the funding
- The quality and robustness of the company's business model
- The use of local expertise if available
grant_single_labels|register
Step 1: Deposit Application
- Submit a complete application dossier to Promotion Saguenay through a business advisor.
- Include financial statements with the application.
Step 2: Verification of Eligibility
- Assess the eligibility of the project.
- Inform the promoters whose projects are deemed ineligible as soon as possible.
Step 3: Evaluation and Selection
- Evaluate and select the eligible projects.
Step 4: Authorization
- Obtain authorization from the board of directors of Promotion Saguenay.
Step 5: Response to Promoter
- Inform the promoter of the decision regarding their application.
Step 6: Conditions and Agreement
- Submit the conditions to be met by the promoter.
- Sign a protocol agreement between the promoter and Promotion Saguenay.
Step 7: Disbursement of Financial Aid
- Disburse the financial aid based on the presentation of payment proofs.
grant_single_labels|contact
renaud.grimard@saguenay.ca
Apply to this program
Support for Digital Transformation in Saguenay
The Fonds de soutien au virage numérique offers non-repayable financial aid to companies in Saguenay, Quebec, to facilitate their digital transformation efforts. This initiative supports businesses in adopting or optimizing digital projects to enhance productivity, efficiency, and overall competitiveness.
Comprehensive Guide to the Fonds de soutien au virage numérique
The Fonds de soutien au virage numérique represents a significant opportunity for organizations in Saguenay, Quebec, aiming to embark on or enhance their digital transformation journey. With the increasing demand for digital solutions and the potential challenges businesses face in executing these transitions, this fund provides crucial financial support. Administered by Promotion Saguenay, the fund is tailored to assist small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that may be hindered by financial constraints from making the necessary investments toward digital transformation. This initiative not only aligns with the region's efforts to bolster local businesses but also addresses the broader economic imperative to keep companies competitive and adaptive in a rapidly evolving digital marketplace.
The core objective of the program is to alleviate the financial burden associated with digital projects, thereby empowering companies to meet challenges related to profitability, workforce management, and operational efficiency. Eligible businesses can access direct financial support for various projects with substantial digital components. This support covers strategic consulting, acquisition of digital solutions and equipment, and other necessary technological advancements that drive digital integration.
By focusing on projects that tangible benefits, the fund ensures sustainable business transformations. Companies can tap into expertise for strategic digital planning, enabling thoughtful and impactful digitization. Funded projects may include creating advanced e-commerce platforms, developing online training systems, or acquiring sophisticated management software like CRM or ERP systems. Additionally, investments may target enhancing productivity through automation or innovative technological developments tailored to improve operational processes.
Importantly, the aid seeks to foster long-term viability and competitive edge for local businesses. The fund not only facilitates immediate technological upgrades but also aims to nurture a strategic shift toward digital culture within these organizations. This cultural shift is pivotal, as it enables continued adaptation to future technological shifts and market dynamics, thereby ensuring resilience and sustained growth.
Applying for this grant involves a structured process managed meticulously by Promotion Saguenay. Applications are accepted over a specified period, ensuring businesses have ample time to prepare comprehensive proposals. A robust selection committee evaluates proposals, focusing on feasibility, economic impact, and alignment with the fund's objectives. This thorough evaluation ensures that funded projects offer real, measurable improvements in productivity and business outcomes.
A key feature of the fund is its non-repayable financial aid, an attractive element for businesses seeking investment without the burden of debt repayment. With a maximum contribution of up to $35,000 per project, the aid covers up to 50% of the total project cost, contingent on the company's financial participation. This collaborative funding approach ensures that businesses invest alongside public support, fostering responsible use of funds and committed execution of projects.
Beyond financial aid, the fund encourages businesses to leverage local expertise, fostering regional economic development and collaborative growth. This emphasis not only supports local economies but also enhances project success through the involvement of familiar, seasoned digital professionals who understand the unique business landscape of Saguenay.
In conclusion, the Fonds de soutien au virage numérique is an essential catalyst for Saguenay businesses aiming to thrive in the digital era. By reducing financial barriers and encouraging strategic digital integration, the fund propels companies toward innovative, resilient operational models, ensuring their contribution to a vibrant, future-ready local economy. This initiative exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to economic development, embracing digital transformation as a pathway to sustainable business success.
