NovaScience Program - Support for junior employment
QC, Canada
The NovaScience – Employment Support program accelerates technological integration in SMEs by backing recent graduates in research, life sciences, and digital transformation roles.
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|maxCount
- grant_single|projectCostPercent
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|timelineUnspecified
grant_single|financingType
Grant and Funding
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- Information and cultural industries
- Professional, scientific and technical services
- Health care and social assistance
grant_single|grantors
- Gouvernement du Québec
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|closed
grant_single_labels|preview
The NovaScience – Support for Employment (stream 2) program aims to integrate recent graduates into scientific and technological employment within SMEs to enhance skills in science and technology. The grant encourages the adoption of digital technologies, R&D, and innovation by supporting hiring in three key areas: research and innovation, life sciences, and digital transformation. Eligible projects must be innovative, conducted in Quebec, and focus on these specified domains.
grant_single_labels|projects
Eligible projects for the NovaScience – Employment Support grant include those related to research and innovation, life sciences, and digital transformation of activities within businesses in Quebec.
- Research and innovation projects
- Life sciences projects
- Digital transformation of business activities
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$30,000
Quebec City
Implement AI to optimize customer experience in a Quebec City-based retail startup by hiring a new data analyst.
$30,000
Montreal
Hire a recent graduate to transform laboratory operations through digital solutions in a Montreal-based biotech firm.
grant_single_labels|admissibility
The grant targets organizations looking to enhance their use of digital technologies, engage in R&D, or innovate by supporting the hiring of recent graduates. It specifically applies to non-profit and for-profit organizations with less than 500 employees located in Quebec, provided they meet various eligibility criteria related to their organizational and ethical standing.
- Non-profit and for-profit organizations with less than 500 employees based in Quebec are eligible.
- Organizations must not be listed in the Registre des entreprises non admissibles aux contrats publics (RENA).
- Applicants must have complied with all previous financial aid obligations from the Government of Quebec or Investissement Québec for at least two years.
- The organization should not be a state-owned company or controlled directly or indirectly by any government entity.
- Organizations must not be bankrupt or insolvent.
- Entities involved in ethically questionable activities or offering services that undermine government integrity are ineligible.
- Projects must be related to research, innovation, life sciences, or digital transformation.
- The project must be executed in Quebec and introduce innovative activities or address an emerging theme.
- Eligible jobs must be in Quebec, include a minimum 12-month contract, have at least 30 hours per week, and be linked to acceptable project activities for at least 80% of the time.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
The NovaScience program supports job creation in research and innovation by allowing integration of recent graduates into certain types of enterprises. Eligible companies include non-profit organizations, profit-driven entities with fewer than 500 employees, and collective enterprises based in Quebec.
- Non-profit organizations (NPOs)
- Profit-driven entities (OBL) with fewer than 500 employees
- Collective enterprises (cooperatives) as per the Social Economy Act
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply
Yes, there are certain types of companies that are not eligible for this grant. These include government-controlled entities or those with unethical practices or products/services that may compromise the integrity of the government.
- Government-controlled entities
- Companies or subcontractors listed in the RENA
- Entities failed to fulfill previous financial obligations with the Quebec government or Investissement Québec
- Companies in bankruptcy or insolvency
- Companies producing or distributing weapons
- Companies involved in the fossil fuel industry unless transitioning to low-carbon economy
- Companies in gambling, violent games, or combat sports
- Companies in sexual exploitation, such as escort agencies or erotic bars
- Companies dealing with tobacco or drugs, except industrial cannabis or hemp
- Entities with activities primarily concerning protected rights under the Canadian Charter
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
The only eligible expenses for this grant are the salary of the job holder, including social benefits.
- Salary of the job holder
- Social benefits
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
The eligible geographic zone for this grant is Quebec. Companies must have an establishment in Quebec to be eligible.
- Projects must be carried out in Quebec.
- Eligible organizations must have an establishment in Quebec.
grant_single_labels|criteria
Yes, there are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant. The evaluation of the grant application will focus on the suitability of the proposed project and the job roles, ensuring alignment with the program's objectives and the profile of the candidate.
- The respect of the criteria associated with the type of project submitted.
- The clarity, relevance, and coherence of the job mandates.
- The nature and diversity of tasks to be performed in connection with research and innovation, life sciences, or digital transformation.
- The alignment between the project, the job, and the candidate’s profile.
- The guarantees of project realization.
grant_single_labels|register
- Step 1: Download the application form to your computer. Ensure you have Adobe Reader (version 10 or newer) as the PDF should not be filled in a web browser.
- Step 2: Review the 'Guide de présentation des demandes' thoroughly to understand the project requirements and necessary documentation.
- Step 3: Fill out the application form (PDF 1.74 Mo) accurately, and prepare the required supporting documents according to the guide.
- Step 4: Send one electronic version of the form and a scanned, duly filled, and signed version, along with the required documents in a single submission.
- Step 5: Submit your application by email before May 1, 2024, 11:59 PM to demande.soutien.emploi@economie.gouv.qc.ca.
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
The grant supports the integration of new graduates into small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to develop skills in science and technology.
It aims to increase access to a highly qualified workforce and promote a culture of innovation among organizations.
- The grant is not available for educational institutions, school organizations, hospitals, or affiliated technology transfer centers.
- Eligible projects include research, innovation, and digital transformation activities in Quebec.
- The grant covers the salary of the job holder, including social benefits.
- Applications must be submitted by May 1, 2024, at 11:59 PM.
- The maximum financial aid is $30,000 per project for twelve months, with a maximum aid rate of 50% of eligible expenses.
grant_single_labels|contact
NovaScienceProjet@economie.gouv.qc.ca
1 877 511-5889
Apply to this program
NovaScience Grant: Supporting Employment in Research and Innovation
The NovaScience grant program offers financial assistance to Quebec-based SMEs, aiming to strengthen their technological and scientific workforce by integrating recent graduates into science, technology, research, and digital transformation roles. This initiative provides a non-repayable subsidy of up to $30,000 per project, significantly aiding in advancing innovation and developing a highly skilled workforce within the province.
Understanding the NovaScience Grant for Enhancing Employment in Research and Innovation
In today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, the success of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) largely depends on their ability to adapt, innovate, and leverage the latest technologies. The NovaScience grant program, spearheaded by the Government of Quebec, is a strategic initiative aimed at fostering employment in research and innovation, particularly by integrating new graduates into pivotal roles within these organizations. This program not only aids businesses in enhancing their competitiveness but also plays a crucial role in nurturing a culture of innovation across the province.
The primary objective of the NovaScience grant is to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical application in the business world. By providing financial support, the program encourages SMEs to recruit fresh talent, thereby fostering a new wave of innovation and technological advancement. This initiative recognizes the immense potential of recent graduates, whose fresh perspectives and up-to-date knowledge can drive substantial improvements and efficiencies in their respective fields.
The program is tailored to address specific needs across three key domains: research and innovation, life sciences, and digital transformation. This targeted approach allows for a more efficient allocation of resources, ensuring that the most critical sectors receive the necessary support to thrive in an increasingly competitive global market. By focusing on these areas, the NovaScience grant not only aids individual businesses but also contributes to broader economic growth and sustainability within Quebec.
To be eligible for this grant, applicants must meet several criteria. Primarily, the applicant must be a non-profit or for-profit organization with less than 500 employees, operating within Quebec. This stipulation ensures that the program's benefits are directed towards smaller enterprises that can significantly benefit from additional support. Additionally, the organizations must not engage in certain activities deemed unethical or adverse to government integrity, such as the production or distribution of weapons, gambling, or activities related to fossil fuels unless these contribute to a transition towards a low-carbon economy.
A noteworthy aspect of the NovaScience grant is its emphasis on long-term employment. Eligible projects must offer at least a 12-month employment contract, ensuring that graduates have a stable and secured entry into the job market. This condition not only benefits the graduates but also provides businesses with an extended period to fully benefit from the skills and knowledge of newly hired employees. Moreover, the grant specifies that eligible jobs should be primarily linked to one of the specified focus areas, with at least 80% of the work activities being directly related to research, innovation, life sciences, or digital transformation.
The grant offers substantial financial support, with a maximum subsidy of $30,000 per project for a duration of twelve months. This non-repayable financial aid covers up to 50% of eligible expenses, primarily targeting the salary and associated benefits of the employed graduate. This considerable funding eases the financial burden on SMEs, enabling them to focus on integrating and developing talent without the added pressure of budget constraints.
Furthermore, the NovaScience grant has set a guideline to ensure government assistance does not exceed 80% of total eligible expenses for non-profit organizations and 50% for for-profit organizations. This balanced approach ensures that while the grant provides significant support, organizations still invest substantially in their personnel, thereby fostering a shared commitment to the development and sustainability of these roles.
Applying for the NovaScience grant requires a careful and thorough preparation of documentation and detailed project planning. Interested organizations must submit a completed financial aid request form along with necessary supplementary documents as outlined in the application guide. The proposal should clearly articulate the project objectives, expected outcomes, and the strategic alignment with the organization's goals and innovation agenda. This step ensures that only well-conceived projects with clear potential for success receive funding.
The selection process for the NovaScience grant is robust and considers several important criteria. Applications are evaluated based on their compliance with the project type requirements, clarity, relevance, and coherence with the mandates associated with the employment roles. The evaluation process also examines the nature and diversity of the tasks associated with the role, the alignment between the project and the candidate’s profile, and guarantees for project execution.
Ultimately, by promoting the integration of recent graduates into valuable roles within SMEs, the NovaScience grant contributes significantly to enhancing Quebec's workforce and strengthening its position in the global market. The program supports the development of a highly qualified labor force, accelerates digital transformation, and fosters an innovation-driven business culture. For businesses looking to stay competitive and innovative, participating in the NovaScience grant program represents a forward-thinking investment in their future and the future of their industry.
In conclusion, the NovaScience grant program is a remarkable opportunity for Quebec SMEs. It aims to facilitate the seamless integration of new talent into the workforce, thereby bolstering innovation and technological advancement within the province. Through financial support and strategic focus on key innovation areas, the program sets a strong foundation for economic growth and sustainability. Businesses and graduates alike stand to benefit considerably from this initiative, making it a pivotal tool for shaping the future of Quebec’s industrial and technological landscape.
