How much funding can be received?

The "Fonds Local d’Investissement" (FLI) offers a maximum of $150,000 in funding to support the economic development of businesses in the Joliette region through activities such as business startup, improvement, transformation, expansion, and entrepreneurial succession. The program aims to foster the creation and maintenance of employment by investing in viable businesses that contribute to the local economy.

grant_single_labels|projects

The FLI/FLS grants support a range of projects aimed at fostering entrepreneurial growth, business expansion, and sustainable economic development within the MRC de Joliette. Eligible activities include funding support for business startups, growth, and succession plans:

Démarrage (Startup) - Supports businesses in the early stage of commercialization and operational establishment.
Relève entrepreneuriale (Business Succession) - Assists individuals or groups in acquiring substantial ownership in an existing business.
Amélioration et transformation d’entreprise (Business Improvement and Transformation) - Investment in productivity enhancements, digital transformation, and sustainable practices.
Croissance et expansion d’entreprise (Business Growth and Expansion) - Funds projects focusing on the growth of existing businesses and expansion into new markets.
Acquisition d’entreprise (Business Acquisition) - Financing available for acquiring assets or shares of an existing business.
Financement temporaire (Short-term financing) - Short-term loans provided while awaiting confirmed revenues.
Redressement (Business Turnaround) - Support for business recovery plans focusing on market stability and strong management.

grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample

$80,000

Developing eco-friendly packaging solutions for local businesses

$75,000

Creating an inclusive community art center

$40,000

Implementing a bilingual customer service training program

$60,000

Launching an organic urban farming initiative with workshops

$120,000

Establishing a mobile mental health support unit

$90,000

Creating a digital platform for artisan product sales

grant_single_labels|admissibility

Eligibility for this grant is determined by specific requirements related to the enterprise's status and operations.

The enterprise must be a for-profit business legally constituted under the laws of Quebec or Canada, or a collective enterprise (cooperatives and non-profit organizations) as defined by the Loi sur l’économie sociale engaged in commercial activities.
It must operate within the territory of the MRC de Joliette and have its head office in Quebec.
The enterprise must be registered with the Quebec Enterprise Register (REQ).
For the FLS, social economy enterprises must meet conditions outlined in Annex A.

grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply

The FLI and FLS investment funds in the MRC de Joliette are designed to support various types of businesses, including start-ups and established companies, under specified conditions. The eligibility requirements are detailed as follows:

Enterprises must be for-profit legal entities constituted under the laws of Quebec or Canada, and social economy enterprises (cooperatives and non-profit organizations, or OBNLs) involved in commercial activities are also eligible.
Businesses must operate within the territory of MRC de Joliette and have their registered office in Quebec.
The enterprise must be registered with the Quebec Business Register (REQ).
Eligible business activities must not fall within certain excluded sectors such as weapon production, fossil fuel extraction, gaming, and others as specified in section 3.3 of the investment policy.
For the FLS, social economy enterprises must meet additional conditions outlined in Annex A of the policy.

grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply

This grant excludes certain companies and industries due to their status or main activity. The restrictions ensure that funds support sectors prioritizing economic and community development in compliance with defined ethical and operational standards.

Companies listed in the Register of non-eligible enterprises for public contracts (RENA).
Entities failing to meet previous financial obligations to the Ministry or regional municipality within the last two years.
State-owned enterprises or companies controlled by a municipal, provincial, or federal government.
Businesses under protection from the Companies' Creditors Arrangement Act or Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act.
Entities with unethical behavior that could damage the integrity and probity of the government or municipality.
Companies with irresponsible environmental practices as per applicable legislation.
Organizations with a history of labor standards or human rights violations.
Businesses involved in arms production or distribution.
Companies engaged in the fossil fuel exploration, extraction, drilling, production, and refining industries, except for transitioning to low carbon activities.
Businesses operating gambling activities, including casinos and bingo halls.
Entities engaged in violent games, combat sports involving any living species, racing, or similar activities.
Organizations engaged in sexual exploitation, such as erotic bars, escort agencies, and clubs.
Real estate management and development companies, with exceptions for tenant services development projects.
Businesses involved in tobacco or drug-related services, with specified exceptions for cannabis and industrial hemp-related interventions under strict conditions.

grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses

The grant covers specific expenses directly related to the implementation and success of the business project.

The need for additional working capital, compared to currently present expenses, necessary for carrying out the business project for a maximum period of two years, accounting for justified and reasonable expenses.
Capital expenses strictly and directly linked to the realization of the business project, such as the acquisition of technology, land, building, equipment, machinery, and rolling stock, along with construction, expansion, renovation, and fitting of the land and premises.
Professional fees preceding the realization of the business project, like feasibility analysis, external audit, or impact study.
Professional fees strictly and directly linked to the realization of the business project, such as technology implementation, equipment and machinery acquisition, construction, renovation, and premises fitting.
For entrepreneurial succession projects: acquisition of ownership titles of the targeted business (voting shares or parts) and assets of the targeted business.
Professional fees strictly and directly linked to the transaction and acquisition of the business as well as to the managerial transition of the business.

grant_eligibility_criteria|zone

This grant is available to companies that have operations in specific regions to support local economic development. Eligible areas are defined to ensure contributions to the economic impact within the MRC de Joliette.

Companies operating and headquartered in the territory of the MRC de Joliette

grant_single_labels|criteria

The evaluation and selection of projects under the FONDS LOCAL D'INVESTISSEMENT (FLI) and FONDS LOCAL DE SOLIDARITÉ (FLS) are based on specific criteria to ensure alignment with the grant’s objectives.

Economic viability of the financed enterprise, demonstrating permanence of profitability and repayment capability.
Knowledge and experience of the promoters, highlighting relevant domain knowledge and management abilities.
Social and environmental impact, including adoption of sustainable business practices.
Openness towards workers, considering labor relations approach.
Participation of other financial partners, including desired involvement of financial institutions.
Sustainability of funds, focusing on the self-financing capacity of the "Fonds locaux."

grant_single_labels|register

Here are the steps to submit an application for this grant:

Step 1: Evaluate Eligibility
Ensure your business or project meets the eligibility criteria outlined in the investment policy.
Determine if your project aligns with the FLI/FLS's objectives for economic impact and development.
Step 2: Gather Documentation
Complete the application form provided by the Corporation de développement économique de la MRC de Joliette (CDÉJ).
Prepare and update the business plan and/or detailed project description.
Organize a detailed breakdown of project-related expenses.
Compile financial statements for the past three years and interim statements if applicable.
Prepare financial projections for the upcoming period.
Include declarations of conformity for French language and employment equality, where applicable.
Secure confirmation of any other financial aid or funding related to the project.
Step 3: Submit Application
Ensure all the documentation is complete before submission.
Submit all documents to the Corporation de développement économique de la MRC de Joliette (CDÉJ) as per the specified format or method.
Pay any applicable application or processing fees as required.
Step 4: Follow Up
Await confirmation of receipt and further instructions from CDÉJ.
Be prepared to provide additional information or clarification if requested.

grant_single_labels|otherInfo

Here are additional relevant details for this grant:

The common investment policy for FLI/FLS is subject to change and can be modified by the MRC de Joliette as long as these modifications fall within the frameworks set by the MEIE and Fonds locaux de solidarité FTQ, s.e.c.
In no event will the "Fonds locaux" make investments in the form of refundable or non-refundable contributions akin to a grant.
If the FLS finances a project alone, FLS interventions will often complement other funding sources like promoter contributions and traditional financing.
The accumulated outstanding balance of refundable financial assistance under the FLI program could not exceed $300,000 at any time for the same enterprise.
The interest rates and repayment terms vary, with considerations for risk categories, amortization period, and whether it’s a secured or unsecured loan.
An investment recovery will be pursued through all available legal means in the event of non-compliance by the borrower with their obligations.
Application submissions must include a set of complete financial documents, with interim financials provided if the last annual statements are outdated.

grant_single_labels|contact

(450) 752-5566

Apply to this program

Empowering Local Business Growth in Quebec

The FLI and FLS grant programs offer crucial financial support to entrepreneurs and businesses within the MRC de Joliette, aimed at fostering economic development and employment sustainability. These funds specifically assist in areas such as business startups, expansions, and entrepreneurial succession within the region.

Diving Deep into the Benefits and Structure of FLI and FLS Grants

The FLI (Fonds Local d’Investissement) and FLS (Fonds Local de Solidarité) grants are pivotal initiatives launched by the MRC de Joliette to support the local economic landscape. These funds are part of a broader strategic effort to drive entrepreneurship, retain jobs, and enhance the viability of businesses in the region. The adoption of this investment policy demonstrates a commitment to not just short-term project success but long-standing economic sustainability and impact.

Central to the mission of these funds is the empowerment of local entrepreneurs by providing them with essential financial tools required for their projects. Be it a new startup finding its footing, an existing company looking to upgrade its capabilities, or businesses undergoing management succession, the grants are designed to mitigate financial bottlenecks and ensure project viability. By offering financial leverage, these funds aim to complement other sources of finance, such as commercial loans or private investments, thus solidifying financial foundations and reassuring potential external financiers.

With a firm set of investment criteria, the FLI and FLS grants prioritize the economic viability and potential impact of projects they fund. A critical aspect that sets these funds apart is their emphasis on fostering inclusive and environmentally responsible business practices. Projects must showcase significant socio-economic and environmental benefits, ensuring that funded initiatives build towards a sustainable future while addressing the immediate economic needs of the MRC de Joliette.

Additionally, these funds strongly endorse the vitality and capacity of the entrepreneurs themselves. Applicants must demonstrate robust expertise and experience in relevant fields, alongside a clear strategy for executing their business plans. This ensures that the funds are directed towards well-managed entities that can effectively handle the dynamic conditions of the market and contribute positively to the local economy.

Notably, the FLI and FLS prioritize projects that engage in creating resilient infrastructures, support the entrepreneurial transition, or enhance digital transformations. This targeted approach ensures that the regional economy doesn't just recover but thrives, adapting to new challenges and opportunities.

These grants also establish a collaborative framework with other financial partners. Through collective investment efforts, they aim to maximize the impact of every dollar spent, ensuring that more businesses can benefit. This shared risk approach not only protects the financial interests of the funds but encourages a culture of cooperative economic responsibility in the Joliette community.

The robust framework of the FLI and FLS grants, coupled with a stringent evaluation process, guarantees that only projects with genuine potential for economic and social benefit are awarded. Projects are continuously monitored for performance, ensuring compliance and enabling mid-course adjustments for enhanced success.

For businesses and entrepreneurs in the MRC de Joliette, engaging with the FLI and FLS grants represents more than just financial support; it’s an opportunity to contribute to the economic fabric and future preparedness of their community. This structured investment policy not only safeguards their business interests but also aligns them with broader community goals, fostering a more inclusive and prosperous business environment.

MRC Joliette — Local investment and solidarity funds (FLI and FLS)

grant_single_labels|summary

grant_single_labels|preview