How much funding can be received?

The Program to Support the Development of Strategic Sectors and Niches of Excellence (PADS), with a total financial assistance of $50.7 million between April 2020 and March 2022, aims to foster collaboration and mobilization among Quebec businesses and economic partners. Eligible activities include networking, knowledge transfer, partnerships, and projects supporting the development and branding of strategic sectors.

Financing terms and conditions

A total financial assistance of $50.7 million was granted from April 1, 2020 to March 31, 2022 for supported projects.
The financial aid provided demonstrated a leverage effect of 2.13 and a return ratio of 1.07.
Final payment is conditional upon submission of all completed project result sheets by beneficiaries.
Projects funded must comply with the program's stated maximum aid rates.

Eligible projects & activities

Networking, exchange, and partnership projects among economic actors.
Knowledge dissemination and transfer initiatives.
Mobilization of economic players for sector development.
Structuring projects aimed at developing strategic sectors.
Collaborative or partnership projects with other organizations to enhance sector growth and branding.

Eligibility criteria of the MEIE — Program to support the development of strategic sectors and niches of excellence (PADS) program

The applicant's project must contribute to the development of strategic sectors or niches of excellence in Quebec.
The project should foster collaboration and mobilization among businesses and economic partners in Quebec.
The applicant must ensure that the project aligns with the program’s objectives and the Ministry’s mission.
The applicant must submit all required supporting documents and project result reports before final disbursement of financial support.

Who is eligible?

Organizations and businesses involved in the development of strategic sectors in Quebec
Entities contributing to niches of excellence within the province
Economic partners and promoters conducting collaborative, networking, or knowledge transfer projects in Quebec

Eligible geographic areas

Quebec

Eligibility criteria of the MEIE — Program to support the development of strategic sectors and niches of excellence (PADS) program

Relevance of the project in addressing identified needs within strategic sectors and niches of excellence.
Effectiveness of the proposed actions in achieving the program's stated objectives and results.
Coherence of the project with other government interventions and alignment with government priorities.
Demonstrated added value and utility of the proposal for the intended beneficiaries.
Compliance with program guidelines, including documented impact indicators and adherence to prescribed management practices.

How to apply to the MEIE — Program to support the development of strategic sectors and niches of excellence (PADS) program

Assess program eligibility

Check the eligibility of your organization with the grant objectives
Ensure alignment with strategic sectors and niches of excellence
Review previous funded projects for relevance

Develop project documentation

Prepare a detailed project plan indicating expected outcomes
Collect project data and indicators relevant to the program's mission
Ensure inclusion of required information for evaluation

Submit project results documentation

Complete and submit all required project result sheets
Ensure submission before the final financial payment
Follow the procedures as specified by the program’s guidelines

Additional information

An overall satisfaction rate of 93% was reported among program participants.
Beneficiaries are required to submit project results reports, particularly before the final payment is made.
There are recommendations for the future inclusion of quantifiable result indicators in the program's normative framework.
The program is assessed periodically to maintain alignment with government strategies and ensure efficient management practices.