ERACM program - Assistance and Financing

The ERACM program offers funding modalities designed to support businesses in their innovation and business opportunity projects by providing non-repayable contributions. These contributions vary based on the percentage of eligible expenses and total project cost.

• Non-repayable contributions available up to $24,750 per year for each company.
• Covers 55% of eligible expenses, specifically professional fees of experts.
• Total eligible expenses can amount to a maximum of $45,000.
• Funding availability is conditional upon the availability of program funds.
• Advisory services can assist in pre-purchase decisions or in identifying other funding sources for non-eligible expenses.

Eligibility for this grant is determined by specific requirements related to the company’s location, sector, and project implementation.

• The company must be a for-profit organization.
• The company must be located in the Mauricie region or the project must be implemented at a subsidiary located in Mauricie.
• The company must operate in one of the following sectors: Manufacturing, Information Technology, or B2B Business Services.

Who is eligible?

The eligible applicants for the Programme ERACM are primarily for-profit companies located in the Mauricie region. Specifically, the program targets those working in the manufacturing, information technology, and B2B business services sectors. Additionally, companies with headquarters outside Mauricie may also be eligible if the funded project is implemented for a subsidiary located within Mauricie. Other types of businesses may be considered eligible on a case-by-case basis, and it is recommended to contact an ESM advisor for clarification.

Eligible expenses

This grant supports projects focused on enhancing cybersecurity, commercializing new products, integrating information technologies, and protecting intellectual property. It aims to provide specialized expertise to help businesses innovate and secure their assets.

• Audit in cybersecurity and securing IT tools.
• Development of a marketing strategy for new products.
• Establishment of an intellectual property strategy and action prioritization.
• Integration of information technologies and data interconnection.
• Protection of intangible assets (products, trademarks, etc.).

Eligible geographic areas

This grant is primarily available to profitable companies located in specific regions to support local economic development. It welcomes applications from firms connected to the Mauricie area.

• Businesses situated within the Mauricie territory in Canada.
• Companies that have a branch or subsidiary executing the funded project in Mauricie, even if headquartered elsewhere.

The grant primarily supports businesses in innovation projects through non-repayable contributions, offering up to $24,750 annually. Projects must involve external expertise and focus on specific eligible activities, with funding availability contingent on the program's fund status.

• The maximum amount of non-repayable contribution is 55% of the eligible expenses, capped at $24,750 per year per business.
• Eligible projects could include cybersecurity audits, marketing strategy development, and intellectual property strategies.
• Only external expert fees are covered; purchases of specialized equipment or technology solutions are not eligible for funding.
• This program is mainly for for-profit businesses located in the Mauricie region in sectors like manufacturing, IT, and B2B services.
• Eligibility does not guarantee funding due to conditional fund availability.
• Additional support includes connections to specialized resources such as research centers and universities.
• The program promotes innovation through activities like workshops, networking events, and training sessions.
• Companies can subscribe to a newsletter to stay informed about the program and innovation best practices.