
Innovation in Quantum Technologies — Stream 1
Last Update: July 22, 2025
QC, Canada
Funding for startups for collaborative R&D projects in quantum technologies
At a glance
Eligible Funding
- Max. $150,000
- Up to 50% of project cost
Timeline
- Closing date : May 30, 2024
Financing Type
Grant and Funding
Eligible Industries
- Professional, scientific and technical services
Funds Providers
Unspecified
Program status
Closed
Overview
Get a contribution of up to $150,000 to cover 50% of eligible expenses for the realization of a research and innovation project related to the development and growth of products or services at the origin of the creation of the startup.
Financing terms and conditions
This grant offers financial support to startups in quantum technologies through defined co-funding and expenditure modalities. The funding terms are structured to ensure effective utilization of resources for the advancement and commercialization of innovative technologies.
- The government's contribution cannot exceed $150,000 per project with a maximum project duration of one year.
- Funding covers up to 50% of total eligible project expenses.
- Combined government aid from municipal, provincial, or federal sources cannot exceed 75% of the total eligible project expenses.
- At least 25% of eligible expenses must be covered by private contributions.
- Funding is contingent upon secured partnership financing and the proper progression of the project according to the financing agreement and annual budget plan.
Activities funded
This grant supports startups in the quantum technology sector to resolve issues related to their development and growth through research and innovation. Projects can focus on technological or organizational innovation.
- Research and innovation projects addressing technological challenges inherent in the startup's product or service development.
- Research and innovation projects aimed at organizational growth, including personnel and structural enhancement.
Examples of admissible projects:
$ 110,000
Creating an educational platform for first responders and disaster management
$ 140,000
Developing an innovative water filtration system for remote communities
$ 100,000
Developing a mobile app to enhance mental health support services
$ 150,000
Developing AI-driven financial analysis tools for improved decision-making
$ 125,000
Implementing a sustainable waste management system using IoT technology
$ 100,000
Establishing a new organizational structure to support rapid business scaling
Eligibility
The eligibility criteria for this grant are specific to startups and SMEs involved in quantum technologies within Quebec.
- The startup must be legally constituted under federal or Quebec laws and registered with the Quebec Enterprise Registrar.
- The startup must have its headquarters in Quebec, with employees or subcontractors primarily working from Quebec.
- The startup should not be majority-owned (50% or more) by existing enterprises or organizations.
- The startup must have been incorporated for five years or less.
- The startup must hold the intellectual property rights for its product, process, or service.
- The startup must currently receive or plan to receive support from a designated incubator or accelerator (Centech, ACET, Entrepreneuriat Laval, or Quantino).
- The startup should dedicate a significant portion of resources (50% or more) to the development of the enterprise, from concept and development to market entry.
- For SMEs, they must have been legally constituted for more than five years, have 249 employees or less, and hold assets below 50 million dollars.
- The SMEs must also be legally constituted under federal or Quebec laws, registered with the Quebec Enterprise Registrar, have their head office in Quebec, and have employees or subcontractors primarily working from Quebec.
Who is eligible?
This grant is designed for startups in the field of quantum technologies that currently receive or plan to receive support from one of four specified organizations. Eligible startups must meet certain conditions as outlined in the grant description.
- Startups must be legally constituted according to federal or Quebec laws and registered in the Quebec enterprise register.
- They must have their headquarters in Quebec and employ staff or contractors primarily based in Quebec.
- They should not be more than 50% owned by existing businesses or organizations.
- The startups should be incorporated for five years or less.
- They must have the rights to use the intellectual property of their product, process, or service.
- The startups must currently receive or plan to receive backing from a business incubator or accelerator.
- They should dedicate a significant portion of their resources (50% or more) to company development from product, process, or service design through to market launch.
Who is not eligible
This grant opportunity excludes certain companies based on their ownership, financial status, or compliance history. Only companies meeting specific criteria are eligible to ensure the alignment of the projects with the grant's objectives.
- Companies owned 50% or more by existing businesses or entities.
- Companies controlled directly or indirectly by a government (provincial or federal), a municipal entity, or a majority-owned state enterprise.
- Businesses under the protection of the Companies' Creditors Arrangement Act or the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act.
- Companies listed in the register of businesses ineligible for public contracts.
- Companies that have defaulted on meeting their obligations related to prior financial aid from the Ministry in the past two years.
Eligible expenses
This grant is designed to support startups in addressing key development and growth challenges by leveraging research and innovation. Eligible projects include technological innovations that originate from the startup's core product or service, as well as organizational innovations targeting internal growth challenges.
- Technological innovation projects related to the startup's core products or services.
- Organizational innovation projects addressing growth challenges such as personnel or company structure.
Eligible geographic areas
This grant is specifically available to companies that are legally incorporated and have their headquarters in Québec, Canada. The focus on this geographical area supports the local ecosystem for technological innovation and economic growth.
- Companies headquartered in Québec, Canada.
Selection criteria
The evaluation and selection criteria for this grant include various aspects to gauge the eligibility and quality of the submitted projects. These criteria consider factors such as innovation potential, alignment with program objectives, and financial viability.
- Innovation potential of the project and its uniqueness in the quantum technologies sector
- Alignment with the goals of supporting technological innovation and economic development in Quebec
- Feasibility and clarity of project objectives and timelines
- Financial viability and sustainability of the startup
- Experience and expertise of the project team
- Proof of support or engagement from an incubator or accelerator
- Potential economic and social impacts of the project
- Contribution to the development and commercialization of quantum technologies
How to apply
1
Verification of eligibility criteria
- Ensure that the startup has been incorporated for five years or less and is active in the field of quantum technologies.
- Confirm the current or planned support from one of the organizations: Centech, ACET, Entrepreneuriat Laval, or Quantino.
2
Proof of accompaniment
Provide proof of support via an official letter signed by the incubator or accelerator, or demonstrate that the support procedures have already begun.
3
Project Preparation
- Clearly identify the problem to be solved that requires research and innovation.
- Define whether the project is technological or organizational.
4
Filling out the application form
- Download the financial aid application form using version 10 or a later version of Adobe Reader software.
- Complete all sections of the form.
5
Submission of the request
- Send the electronic copy of the application file in PDF or Word format to the email address: quantique@economie.gouv.qc.ca.
- Ensure that the submission is made before May 30, 2024, at 4 PM.
Additional information
Here are additional relevant details for this grant:
- The downloadable forms for application need to be accessed using Adobe Reader version 10 or later due to advanced features not supported by other PDF viewers.
- Applications must be submitted electronically in PDF or Word format by the specified deadline, with no extensions granted.
- The grant does not allow for more than a 50% reimbursement of eligible project expenses and total government aid must not exceed 75% of total eligible project expenses.
Contacts
quantique@economie.gouv.qc.ca
5148731767
Frequently Asked Questions about the Innovation in Quantum Technologies — Stream 1 Program
Here are answers to the most common questions about the Innovation in Quantum Technologies — Stream 1. This section explains what the program is, how much funding is available, eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and other important details to help you determine if this grant is right for your business.
What is the Innovation in Quantum Technologies — Stream 1?
How much funding can be received?
What is the deadline to apply?
Is the Innovation in Quantum Technologies — Stream 1 a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Who are the financial supporters of the Innovation in Quantum Technologies — Stream 1?
Who is eligible for the Innovation in Quantum Technologies — Stream 1 program?
Who can I contact for more information about the Innovation in Quantum Technologies — Stream 1?
Where is the Innovation in Quantum Technologies — Stream 1 available?
Are startups eligible for the Innovation in Quantum Technologies — Stream 1 program?

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