How much funding can be received?

The Entente de partenariat régional et de transformation numérique en tourisme 2022-2025 (EPRTNT 22-25) aims to support the development and growth of tourism businesses in Quebec through responsible and sustainable approaches, with a maximum funding amount of up to $100,000. Eligible activities include the construction, expansion, and improvement of tourism infrastructure and services that promote innovative and sustainable tourism offerings.

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This grant supports the development and growth of tourism enterprises within a responsible and sustainable framework. Eligible projects focus on enhancing infrastructure and services to create a distinctive and innovative tourism offering.

Construction of new tourism infrastructure.
Expansion or improvement of existing tourism facilities.
Implementation of innovative and modern attractions.
Consolidation and expansion of tourism activities and services.

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Eligibility for this grant requires meeting specific organizational and operational criteria in Quebec's tourism sector.

The applicant must be a legally constituted business or entity under Quebec or Canadian law and conduct business in Quebec.
Eligible applicants include for-profit organizations, non-profit organizations, cooperatives, municipal entities, recognized Indigenous communities and organizations, or any combination thereof.
Applicants must have fulfilled previous grant commitments, if applicable.
Tourist accommodation establishments must comply with relevant laws and regulations and hold a valid registration number.
Nature and adventure tourism businesses must adhere to, initiate compliance with, or commit to undertaking the Qualité-Sécurité program standards from Aventure Écotourisme Québec.
Ineligible applicants include crown corporations, government departments and agencies of Quebec and Canada, businesses on the register of businesses ineligible for public contracts, and businesses not conforming to the francization process of the Office québécois de la langue française.

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The grant is designed to support diverse entities in the tourism sector in Quebec who aim to develop innovative, responsible, and sustainable tourism offerings.

Tourism businesses, including for-profit organizations, non-profit organizations, and cooperatives.
Municipal entities such as municipalities, cities, towns, parishes, and other specified local government forms.
Recognized Indigenous communities, nations, and their associated organizations and businesses.
Any grouping of the aforementioned eligible clienteles.

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Certain types of companies and industries are not eligible for this grant. The exclusions are designed to align with the grant's focus on supporting sustainable and compliant sectors in tourism.

State-owned enterprises and governmental ministries and organizations of the Quebec and Canadian governments.
Businesses listed on the registry of companies ineligible for public contracts.
Companies not compliant with the francization process of the Office québécois de la langue française.

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The eligible expenses for the grant are those directly associated with executing the approved tourism projects.

Costs related to construction, reconstruction, expansion, development, adaptation, conversion, replacement, or deployment of new tourism infrastructure or facilities.
Professional fees paid to recognized professionals for design, engineering, technical staff, consultants for project management, or for reporting.
Costs associated with the development, enhancement, and valorization of lands and trails.
Costs for purchasing and installing specialized equipment and furniture.
Costs for acquiring boats or rolling stock to enhance the client experience.
Acquisition costs for land, servitudes, and rights of way, including related expenses, provided the land is necessary for the project.
Surveying costs for the project site.
Quality control costs at the construction site.
Net taxes (excluding reimbursed portions) associated with eligible costs.
Costs related to integrating artwork into a building or site under the Policy for the Integration of Arts into the Architecture and Environment of Government and Public Sites in Quebec.

grant_eligibility_criteria|zone

The grant is available to companies legally constituted under the laws of the Government of Québec or Canada, and must conduct business in Québec. Eligibility extends to align with regional tourism development goals.

Companies legally constituted and operating in Québec.

grant_single_labels|criteria

The evaluation and selection of projects for this grant are based on several criteria to ensure alignment with the grant’s objectives and responsible tourism development.

The adequacy of the project with the objectives of the EPRTNT.
The structuring nature of the project including its ability to attract, its scope, outcomes, collaboration with other partners, job creation, and season extension.
The innovative character of the project.
The quality in terms of concept, products, and services offered.
The project's financial structure and setup.
The relevance of the project including serving significantly tourist clientele, market strategy, competition, quality of offer, marketing strategy, and networking.
The feasibility of the project encompassing timeline, marketing strategy, quality of the business plan or studies, and the promoter’s expertise.
Incorporation of sustainable development principles.
Alignment of the project with regional development priorities and plans.

grant_single_labels|register

Here are the steps to apply for the Entente de partenariat régional et de transformation numérique en tourisme 2022-2025 grant:

Step 1: Complete the Preliminary Eligibility Form
Access the preliminary eligibility form.
Fill in the form to validate the main eligibility criteria for your organization.
Submit the form to Tourisme Cantons-de-l’Est for validation.
Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form
Once preadmissibility is validated, complete the application form entitled EPRTNT_Attraits_activites_equipements_TCE.
Gather and attach required documents including the business plan, financial statements, board resolution authorizing the application, and any other specific documentation required.
Step 3: Submit the Application
Send the completed application form and all supporting documents to the specified email address: eprtnt@atrce.com.

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Here are additional relevant details for this grant:

The maximum financial intervention from EPRTNT is $100,000 and cannot exceed 30% of eligible costs for profit-oriented organizations or 50% for non-profits and others.
Funds cannot be composed of governmental aid considered in the cumulative calculation, asset transfers, or contributions in kind/services.
An open call for tenders is required for adjudicating construction contracts over $100,000.
The project must meet sustainable development measures that enhance positive social and economic impacts.
Compliance with the Official Language Act, emphasizing the French language, is mandatory for operations in Quebec.
Documents such as a completed Excel application form, a full business plan, and a Council resolution authorizing the financial aid request are required.

grant_single_labels|contact

eprtnt@atrce.com

Apply to this program

Supporting Regional Tourism Through Digital Transformation

The "Entente de partenariat régional et de transformation numérique en tourisme 2022-2025" provides funding support and guidance to tourism businesses in Quebec, aiming to enhance their development and sustainability through innovative projects. This initiative focuses on bolstering regional economies by advancing distinctive and responsible tourism offerings.

Detailed Overview of the Digital Transformation Partnership in Quebec's Tourism Sector

The "Entente de partenariat régional et de transformation numérique en tourisme 2022-2025" (EPRTNT 22-25) represents a significant collaboration between the Quebec Ministry of Tourism (MTO) and Tourisme Cantons-de-l’Est (TCE). This initiative is strategically designed to provide substantial financial support and expert guidance to tourism businesses across the Eastern Townships of Quebec, aiming to foster sustainable economic growth and enhance the region's tourism offerings through responsible and innovative practices.

One of the initiative's primary objectives is to stimulate the local economy by developing an attractive and unique tourism offer. It emphasizes innovation and the exploration of new market niches for tourism businesses, aligning with the strategic goal of transforming the region’s tourism potential into a robust and sustainable economic driver. This goal is achieved by funding projects that lead to the development, expansion, or modernization of infrastructures, equipment, and services in the tourism sector.

The EPRTNT 22-25 offers financial contributions that are non-repayable, specifically targeting projects with eligible costs of at least $50,000. These funding contributions can reach a maximum of $100,000, covering up to 50% of eligible costs for non-profit organizations, cooperatives, municipal entities, and Indigenous communities, and up to 30% for for-profit organizations. This financial relief is geared towards supporting businesses in executing impactful projects that align with the program's objectives of innovation, sustainable practices, and economic stimulation.

The program is meticulous in assessing project eligibility and focuses on specific areas such as construction, expansion, enhancement of tourism infrastructure, and the development of new and sustainable tourist experiences. It excludes certain sectors, such as restaurants, retail, gaming, and projects that primarily concern operational upgrades or maintenance of existing setups. These exclusions ensure that funds are directed towards projects that have a transformative potential.

Another cornerstone of the EPRTNT 22-25 is its commitment to sustainable tourism development. The program encourages tourism businesses to adopt socially responsible practices and integrate environmentally respectful solutions. This aspect not only contributes to the environmental sustainability of the tourism sector but also enhances the social and economic well-being of the communities involved.

Collaboration and partnership are essential elements of this initiative. Eligible projects often involve partnerships with local communities, Indigenous nations, and other stakeholders, ensuring that the growth strategies developed are inclusive, culturally sensitive, and benefit a wide range of people and organizations. By doing so, the program promotes a collaborative approach that can lead to innovating tourism experiences which reflect the region’s cultural diversity and natural beauty.

Furthermore, the program sets specific requirements for project applications, such as a business plan, financial statements, and evidence of the project's alignment with regional development plans. Projects must also comply with legislative requirements such as the Quebec Official Language Act and commitments to non-discrimination in employment, reinforcing the program's broader socio-economic goals.

Overall, the "Entente de partenariat régional et de transformation numérique en tourisme" is not just a funding mechanism but a comprehensive effort to support and transform the tourism landscape in Quebec through innovative, responsible, and economically beneficial projects. It represents a valuable opportunity for tourism businesses and other eligible entities to enhance their offerings, contribute to sustainable regional development, and participate in the wider economic growth strategy of Quebec.