How much funding can be received?

The "Fonds d'optimisation au développement" aims to support local organizations in planning and realizing their development projects by providing specialized professional services, with a maximum funding of up to $3,000 covering up to 50% for private companies and 90% for non-profit organizations of eligible expenses. Funded activities must focus on enhancing development strategies, improving performance, and addressing business functions like marketing, production, or technological transitions.

grant_single_labels|terms_and_conditions

The Development Optimisation Fund offers structured financing modalities designed to support local organizations by covering professional service costs for enhancing strategic planning and operational efficiency. Financial support varies by organization type with specific limitations on project cost coverage.

Maximum aid of $3,000 per project.
For private enterprises, funding can cover up to 50% of eligible expenses, while for non-profit organizations, it can cover up to 90%.
The total government aid for private enterprises must not exceed 50% of the total project cost.
For non-profits, total government aid including this fund can reach up to 90% of the project cost.
Funds are reserved upon signing the agreement and remain available for a period of 9 months, extendable by 3 months upon written request.
All financial support is contingent on project expenses exclusively pertaining to professional services aimed at enhancing organizational capabilities.

grant_single_labels|projects

This grant supports projects that seek to enhance organizational performance through professional services. Eligible projects focus on strategic planning and performance optimization in key business functions.

Professional services for marketing strategy enhancement.
Consulting for production process improvements.
Management advisory services to boost organizational efficiency.
Financial and accounting services for improved fiscal management.
Human resources strategy development.
Services related to sustainable development practices.
Advisory for technological innovation and digital transformation.

grant_single_labels|admissibility

Organizations must meet specific criteria to be eligible for this grant:

Eligible entities include Non-Profit Organizations (OBNL), private companies (sole proprietorship, partnership, limited partnership, corporations), and cooperatives.
Organizations must be registered in the Quebec Enterprise Register.
Specific sectors such as retail and restaurants are generally not eligible, unless they provide local proximity services.
Entities must not be listed in Annex A or fall under the conditions outlined there, such as those involved in certain excluded industries or with ethical concerns.
The project and the organization must be located within the territory of the MRC du Fjord-du-Saguenay.
The organization must not have received non-repayable financial aid from the MRC within the last 24 months.
The organization or its representatives must satisfy high standards of integrity as expected of beneficiaries of public funds.

grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply

The "Fonds d'optimisation au développement" grant specifically evaluates projects based on their potential economic and strategic impact within the MRC of Fjord-du-Saguenay. Projects should align with regional priorities.

Potential of profitability of the project.
Potential economic impact on the MRC territory.
Sustainability of the business and project.
Relevance of the project within the MRC’s strategic planning.
Level of risk associated with the project.
Relevance of the analysis or expertise requested.
Adherence to sustainable development criteria.
Innovation.
Potential to complete the project successfully.
Contribution to the economic diversification of the targeted area.

grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply

This grant excludes certain companies and industries based on ethical, environmental, and legal concerns. Companies related to harmful or controversial activities are not eligible to ensure the integrity and responsibility of funded projects.

Companies listed in the RENA (Register of Enterprises Ineligible for Public Contracts).
Businesses under bankruptcy protection or insolvency legislation.
Organizations with unethical behavior that could damage the integrity of the county.
Companies with irresponsible environmental practices.
Businesses with a history of violating labor or human rights laws.
The armament production or distribution industry.
Fossil fuels sector, except for activities related to transitions to low-carbon economy.
Gambling and betting establishments, like casinos and bingo halls.
Enterprises involved in violent games or combat sports.
Sex industry, including strip clubs, erotic massage parlors, and the production of pornography.
Real estate management or development.
Cannabis and industrial hemp industry, particularly recreational products and non-approved medical products.

grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses

The eligible expenses for this grant are exclusively related to professional services designed to assist organizations in improving strategic planning and achieving high standards of performance and efficiency.

Marketing services.
Production consulting.
Management advisory.
Accounting and finance services.
Human resources services.
Sustainable development guidance.
Technological transformation assistance.
Innovation support.

grant_eligibility_criteria|zone

This grant is specifically available to projects and organizations situated within a designated regional area as stipulated by the funding body. The eligible geographical area is focused to foster local development and strategic growth.

Organizations and projects must be located within the MRC du Fjord-du-Saguenay territory.
For startup projects, the promoter must reside in the MRC du Fjord-du-Saguenay.
For existing businesses, the head office must be situated in the MRC du Fjord-du-Saguenay.

grant_single_labels|criteria

The evaluation and selection of projects for the FONDS D’OPTIMISATION AU DÉVELOPPEMENT is based on specific criteria designed to assess the potential success and impact of proposed projects within the MRC du Fjord-du-Saguenay.

Potential profitability of the project.
Economic impact potential on the MRC's territory.
Sustainability of the business and the project.
Relevance of the project within the MRC's strategic planning framework.
Risk level associated with the project.
Relevance of the analysis or expertise requested.
Sustainable development criteria.
Innovation presented by the project.
Potential for project realization.
Contribution to economic diversification in the affected territory.

grant_single_labels|register

Steps to apply for the "Fonds d'optimisation au développement":

Step 1: Verify Eligibility
Ensure your organization is registered with the Registre des entreprises du Québec.
Confirm the organization is not listed in Annex A of ineligible entities.
Check that your project meets the minimum financial investment and other criteria.
Step 2: Prepare Application Documentation
Complete the "Fonds d’optimisation au développement" financial aid application form.
Include a detailed project description and the financial setup for the project.
Provide documentation outlining the mandate you wish to assign.
Attach a financial estimate or quote related to the project.
Step 3: Submit Application
Submit all required documents via email to developpement@mrc-fjord.qc.ca.
Await a confirmation email acknowledging receipt of your application.
Step 4: Post-Submission
Respond promptly to any requests for further information from the MRC.
Await analysis and decision by the CIDE.
Step 5: Sign Financing Agreement
If approved, review and sign the funding agreement provided by the MRC.
Comply with all terms outlined in the agreement.
Step 6: Reporting and Follow-up
Provide proof of project completion and associated costs for final financial disbursement.
Engage in follow-up six months post-completion to discuss project impacts and future steps.

grant_single_labels|otherInfo

Here are additional relevant details for this grant:

The MRC will reserve the funds at the moment of signing the agreement, with availability to the applicant for 9 months, potentially extendable by 3 months upon written request.
The MRC requires a single payment process, contingent upon proof of mandate completion and all financial documentation submission.
A follow-up with an economic development advisor is mandatory six months post-mandate completion to discuss project impact and next steps.

grant_single_labels|contact

développement@mrc-fjord.qc.ca

Apply to this program

Empowering Organizations with Development Grants

The Fonds d’Optimisation au Développement grant provides targeted financial assistance to eligible organizations within the MRC du Fjord-du-Saguenay region to support a variety of development projects. This financial support is specifically earmarked for acquiring specialized services that enhance the project capabilities and strategic planning of these organizations.

Understanding the Impact and Scope of the Development Optimization Fund

Introduced to bolster local development projects, the Fonds d’Optimisation au Développement is a strategic initiative focused on amplifying the economic growth and sustainability of the MRC du Fjord-du-Saguenay region. The fund is designed to back organizations in navigating the complexities of development by facilitating access to specialized professional services. These services play a critical role in equipping organizations with the right expertise to execute enduring and impactful projects.

Eligible for non-profit organizations and various types of businesses, this grant mandates that each applicant be registered in the Registre des entreprises du Québec. Importantly, the fund excludes sectors such as retail and dining unless they cater to daily community needs, reflecting a preference for projects that contribute broader economic value. By focusing on professional services that encompass critical functions like marketing, finance, resource management, and technological innovation, the MRC aims to nurture well-rounded development initiatives that can withstand future challenges.

This program also places significant emphasis on projects that exemplify potential profitability, economic impact, strategic relevance, risk management, and innovation. Particularly valued are projects that align with sustainable development goals and stimulate diversification within the region's economic landscape. By adopting a thorough evaluative approach, the MRC ensures that funded projects not only meet immediate objectives but also contribute to long-term regional development.

To maximize impact, funding from the Fonds d'Optimisation is meticulously allocated based on detailed financial and operational plans. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), along with nonprofits, are given particular attention, provided they meet the financial contribution criteria and can demonstrate a committed investment in their projects. For businesses, the grant covers up to 50% of eligible expenses, while nonprofits benefit from coverage of up to 90%, reflecting the grant's commitment to supporting public welfare-oriented initiatives.

Furthermore, the process of allocating this financial support is overseen by the Comité d’Investissement en Développement Économique (CIDE), ensuring a transparent and objective evaluation of each project application. The committee is strategically composed of representatives from diverse sectors within the MRC, bringing together insights from industrial, natural resource, and sustainable development sectors, among others. This inclusion of multi-sector expertise in decision-making aims to foster comprehensive growth strategies that are attuned to regional needs.

The grant's framework is not only about monetary support but also about fostering a collaborative network of professionals who contribute to the growth and resilience of recipient organizations. By actively engaging with these projects, the MRC helps to create a learning environment where successes can be shared, and challenges addressed through collective effort. This networking opportunity amplifies the reach and effectiveness of individual projects, offering them a platform to connect and engage with broader regional objectives.

In conclusion, the Fonds d’Optimisation au Développement offers an invaluable avenue for organizations within the MRC du Fjord-du-Saguenay to access critical funding and expert services necessary for sustainable economic development. By aligning local projects with strategic regional objectives, the grant not only empowers individual entities to achieve their potential but also contributes to a stronger, more diversified economic ecosystem in the region.