FAQDD — Ecological Transition Accelerator

The City of Québec has launched the Accélérateur de la transition écologique to mobilize citizens, organizations, and enterprises in transforming their lifestyle, production, and consumption practices to tackle climate and environmental challenges. With a nearly $4M investment, the program offers financial and strategic support for impactful projects aimed at ecological transition.

The Ville de Québec, in collaboration with the Fonds d'action québécois pour le développement durable (FAQDD) and with financial backing from the Capital-Nationale Regional Fund and the Regional and Rurality Fund, has introduced a substantial initiative titled the **Accélérateur de la transition écologique**. This program aims to address the escalating climate and environmental crises by mobilizing various community stakeholders – citizens, organizations, and businesses – to collectively transform their models of living, production, and consumption. Below is an in-depth exploration of the grant, its objectives, eligibility criteria, and application process.

The primary objective of the Accélérateur de la transition écologique is to expedite ecological transition in the city of Québec. It aims to do so by increasing the engagement and active participation of the local community. This involves mobilizing citizens, non-profit organizations, cooperatives, and educational institutions to undertake projects that have a direct and tangible impact on environmental sustainability. By fostering a collaborative approach, the program seeks to leverage the collective strengths and expertise of its participants to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource scarcity.

The program represents a significant financial commitment, with nearly $4M allocated for supporting sustainable projects. The financial aid offered ranges from a minimum of $50,000 to a maximum of $250,000 per project. Importantly, the program can cover up to 80% of eligible project expenses. For projects primarily involving businesses, the cumulative public financial aid cannot exceed 80% of the project costs, whereas for other projects, it can cover up to 100% of costs. Organizations can supplement their funding from other financial programs if needed.

To be considered for funding, projects must meet specific eligibility requirements. Firstly, the project must be conducted and targeted at audiences within the territory of the City of Québec. Exceptions are made for projects mostly targeting businesses, which can extend to the agglomeration of Québec and Wendake. Eligible entities include: - Non-profit organizations - Cooperatives - Educational institutions Additionally, the applicant must be legally established under the laws of the Québec or Canadian governments.

Projects must focus on activities that contribute to the ecological transition with direct environmental impacts. Eligible project themes include: - Adaptation to climate change - Urban agriculture - Air quality improvement - Responsible sourcing - Biodiversity - Demineralization and greening - Circular economy - Energy efficiency and clean energy - Water management - Waste management - Active mobility and sustainable transport - Eco-responsible practices in businesses - Protection and restoration of natural ecosystems - Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions - Sustainable food systems

The program's call for projects is open until March 31, 2024, or until the available funds are exhausted. During this period, two project selection committees will convene. To be considered during the first committee's review, projects must be submitted by December 4, 2023. Projects submitted after this date will be evaluated by the second committee. Here's an outline of the application steps: 1. **Acquaint Yourself with Program Guidelines**: Applicants should begin by thoroughly reviewing the program's guidelines, which can be downloaded from the FAQDD website. 2. **Seek Assistance if Needed**: For additional information or queries regarding eligibility, applicants can contact the FAQDD via email at accelerateur@faqdd.qc.ca or by phone at 418-692-5888, ext. 6. 3. **Prepare Necessary Documents**: Applicants must prepare several documents, including: - Activity calendar - Budget forecast - Partner support letters - Latest audited financial statements - Last annual report or activity report - Board resolution authorizing the signatory to act - Copy of incorporation documents (if applicable) - Proof of complementary funding sources (if applicable) 4. **Complete the Application Form**: The form must be accurately filled out, signed, and submitted with all required attachments. Applicants can save the form and continue later if needed. However, it must be submitted within 28 days of the initial access for it to be considered by the selection committee.

Selected projects are eligible for additional support from FAQDD to strengthen and assist in various aspects of their implementation. The Ville de Québec aims to act as a facilitator to enhance the chances of project success. Moreover, projects will gain increased visibility through the creation and dissemination of project presentation sheets by FAQDD, among other promotional activities.

For further details or inquiries, applicants can contact the FAQDD at: - **Email**: accelerateur@faqdd.qc.ca - **Phone**: 418-692-5888, ext. 6 - **Address**: 125, boulevard Charest Est, local 305, Québec (Québec) G1K 3G5 The Ville de Québec and FAQDD are committed to fostering a sustainable future by providing the necessary resources and support to community-driven projects that contribute to the ecological transition. This initiative is an integral step towards achieving long-term environmental sustainability and resilience. Stay updated and engaged by subscribing to the FAQDD newsletter or visiting their website for more information on related programs, expert resources, and the latest news on ecological transitions and sustainability actions. The Accélérateur de la transition écologique is more than just a funding opportunity; it is a collaborative movement towards a greener, more sustainable future for Québec. Now is the time to take action and contribute to the collective effort in overcoming today’s environmental challenges.