Innovation in Quantum Technologies — Stream 2
QC, Canada
Support for SMEs to develop processes or products in quantum technologies
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|maxCount
- grant_single|projectCostPercent
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|openingDateJanuary 31, 2024
- grant_single|closingDateMay 30, 2024
grant_single|financingType
Grant and Funding
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- grant_single|allIndustries
grant_single|grantors
- Gouvernement du Québec
- Ministère de l'économie, de l'innovation et de l'énergie du Québec (MEIE)
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|closed
grant_single_labels|preview
Get a maximum of $150,000 to cover up to 30% of eligible expences (50% for demonstration of technology showcase) for a quantum technology project from the planning to the pre-commercialisation stage.
grant_single_labels|projects
This grant is specifically targeted for companies that have their head office based in Quebec. It aims to foster innovation within the region by supporting local businesses.
- Companies registered and operating in Quebec, Canada.
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$150,000
Pre-commercial stage quantum computing infrastructure design for financial modeling
$150,000
Development of a quantum-enhanced medical imaging system for early cancer detection
$150,000
Development of a new quantum encryption software for secure communications
$135,000
Enhancement of quantum sensors for industrial process optimization in manufacturing
$150,000
Creation of a quantum computing platform for drug discovery and molecular simulation
$120,000
Development of quantum sensors for precision agriculture and soil analysis
grant_single_labels|admissibility
Eligibility for this grant is determined by specific requirements related to the applicant's business structure and focus on quantum technology development.
- The business must be legally constituted according to federal or Quebec laws and registered with the Quebec Business Register.
- The business must have its headquarters in Quebec, with employees or subcontractors primarily operating from Quebec.
- The business must be classified as a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME) with more than five years of incorporation.
- The business must employ 249 employees or fewer.
- The business must have assets less than 50 million dollars.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
The eligible applicants for stream 2 of this grant are Quebec-based SMEs in quantum technologies aiming at production or internal research and development of goods and services.
- SMEs legally constituted according to federal or Quebec laws and registered with the Quebec business register.
- SMEs with their head office located in Quebec, primarily employing individuals working in or subcontracting from Quebec.
- SMEs established as corporations with more than five years of operation.
- SMEs with fewer than 250 employees.
- SMEs with assets less than 50 million dollars.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply
This grant excludes certain companies and entities due to their status or financial standing. The restrictions ensure that aid is efficiently allocated to eligible enterprises within the strategic scope of quantum technologies.
- Companies controlled directly or indirectly by a government, municipal entity, or majority-owned by a state corporation.
- Enterprises under protection of the Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act or the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act.
- Businesses listed in the register of enterprises ineligible for public contracts.
- Companies that previously defaulted on their obligations concerning past financial aid from the Ministry of Economy, Innovation and Energy.
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
This grant supports innovation projects within the quantum technologies sector, focusing on product and process innovation from planning to pre-commercial stages. Eligible projects contribute to the advancement and commercialization of new or significantly improved quantum technologies.
- Development of new or improved quantum computing technologies, including computers, software, and algorithms.
- Advancements in quantum communication technologies, such as quantum cryptography and networks.
- Innovation in quantum materials, including the simulation or creation of new materials with unique quantum properties.
- Development of quantum metrology and detection devices, utilizing quantum principles for precise measurement and manipulation.
- Projects that involve the use of quantum technologies in life sciences, particularly in drug development and medical applications.
- Initiatives targeting sustainable development, such as the use of quantum detectors for resource exploration.
- Applications in transport and logistics, including advanced materials for vehicles and optimization tools for supply chains.
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
The grant covers expenses that are essential and directly associated with the development and implementation of the quantum technology project.
- Project-related personnel salaries and related benefits.
- Costs of materials and supplies directly related to the project.
- Expenditures on equipment and software necessary to carry out the project.
- Fees for consulting services and other professional services that are essential for the project's success.
- Travel expenses related to the project activities.
- Costs associated with the installation or customization of equipment directly related to the project.
grant_single_labels|criteria
The evaluation and selection criteria for this grant focus on the project's alignment with the objectives of innovation in quantum technologies, demonstrating significant advancement over existing solutions, and showcasing commercial potential while complying with the required eligibility conditions.
- Alignment with the objectives of developing and consolidating efforts in quantum technologies.
- Significant advancement in the product or process compared to existing market solutions.
- Commercial potential of the product or process being developed (if intended for sale).
- Technological or business risk involved in the project.
- Efforts necessitated in research and development.
- Adherence to eligibility conditions such as being a legally constituted PME with its base in Quebec, having fewer than 249 employees, and an asset base of less than 50 million dollars.
- Financial feasibility, including compliance with the maximum aid amount and rate, as well as adherence to the cumulative government aid limits.
- Potential for creating economic impact and supporting the competitive positioning of Quebec in quantum technologies.
grant_single_labels|register
Here are the steps to submit an application for this grant:
- Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
- Ensure your SME meets all eligibility criteria.
- Check that your project aligns with the eligible project criteria and focus areas.
- Step 2: Project Proposal Preparation
- Develop a comprehensive project proposal including the innovation goal, technology description, and expected outcomes.
- Ensure your proposal highlights the competitive advantage and potential commercial application of your technology.
- Include a detailed budget outlining the proposed expenses and funding requirements.
- Step 3: Documentation Compilation
- Gather all necessary supporting documents such as proof of business registration, financial statements, and any prior funding agreements.
- Prepare a timeline for the project execution phases.
- Step 4: Application Submission
- Complete the application form provided by the Ministry of Economy, Innovation and Energy.
- Attach all required documents and ensure that all information is accurate and complete.
- Submit your application by the specified deadline (not applicable as the deadline has passed).
- Step 5: Follow-up
- Await confirmation of receipt from the funding body.
- Prepare to provide any additional information if requested during the evaluation process.
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
Here are additional relevant details for this grant:
- The grant can be combined with other public funding, provided that a maximum funding cap is not exceeded.
- The grant provides up to 30% coverage of eligible expenses, unless the project involves real-world demonstration or a technology showcase, which qualifies for up to 50%.
- Total government assistance cannot exceed 50% of the total project expenses, except for demonstrations or showcases, where it can reach 75%.
- The funded project must be completed within a maximum duration of two years.
grant_single_labels|contact
quantique@economie.gouv.qc.ca
Apply to this program
Boosting Innovation in Quantum Technologies for SMEs
This grant program is designed to support the innovation efforts of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the emerging field of quantum technologies in Quebec. It aims to propel the development and commercialization of revolutionary quantum products and processes.
Detailed Overview of the Quantum Technologies Innovation Grant
The "Appel de projets d’innovation en technologies quantiques" seeks to reinforce the quantum technological landscape in Quebec by funding innovative projects spearheaded by SMEs. This initiative, focusing on the second stream, opens opportunities for these enterprises to delve into cutting-edge research and development projects, advancing from the initial planning stages to pre-commercial showcase phases. The quantum technology sector, known for its transformative potential and disruption across various fields, is a strategic focus for Quebec's Ministry of Economy, Innovation, and Energy, which orchestrates this initiative under its mandate to bolster economic prosperity, job creation, and sustainable development.
The eligible innovations must not only demonstrate significant advancements over existing solutions but also integrate an element of technological or business risk, underpining the venture into uncharted territories with promising economic retorts. The financial aid, capped at $150,000 per project over a maximum duration of two years, aims to shoulder part of the financial burden, covering up to 30% of eligible expenses, or even 50% in cases demonstrating usage in real-world scenarios or technological showcases. This supportive financial push intends to catalyze substantial advancements within the sector, fortifying Quebec’s standing as a leader in quantum innovation.
In Quebec, the quantum technological ecosystem thrives on the collaboration between industry players, research platforms, academia, and startups. This grant underscores the significance of harnessing such collaborations, encouraging projects that seek partnerships with research centers or participating in cross-platform synergies. The realms targeted by this grant encompass quantum computing, communication technologies, materials sciences, and precise quantum-based metrology—an indication of the diverse potential applications of quantum advancements.
The emphasis on quantum computing involves innovations in building quantum computers or developing supporting technologies, such as novel algorithms, simulation tools, and essential hardware like microfabrication. In this digitally expanding horizon, communication technologies driven by quantum cryptography or secure quantum networks herald new secure communication methods. Meanwhile, quantum materials are set to revolutionize various sectors, including life sciences, through innovative material development and sustainable applications, which might lead to breakthroughs in new medication design or enhanced diagnostic tools.
Overall, this grant beckons SMEs to venture beyond current technological bounds, fostering an environment ripe for groundbreaking discoveries and scalable commercial solutions. It’s an opportunity for enterprises to not just progress their innovations but also sync with Quebec’s broader economic ambitions, contributing to a robust, future-ready economy. As quantum technologies continue to evolve, this grant serves as a pivotal catalyst for businesses poised to lead in this dynamic landscape, offering them the means to transform visionary ideas into practical, market-ready solutions that advance societal and technological paradigms.
