Open Innovation Subsidy Program for start-up companies
Montréal, QC, Canada
Empower start-ups to commercialize innovations addressing urban, ecological, and labor challenges in Montréal through partnerships with established organizations.
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
- Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
- Utilities
- Retail trade
- Transportation and warehousing
- Health care and social assistance
- Arts, entertainment and recreation
grant_single|grantors
- City of Montreal (MTL)
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|open
grant_single_labels|preview
This financial support program is designed to facilitate the initiation of business relationships between innovative startups and established organizations in the metropolis of Montreal.
The main goal of the program is to boost the commercialization of innovative solutions addressing key issues such as urban development, ecological transition, or labor shortages. These urban challenges encompass a wide range of areas, including economic, cultural, and social development, environmental management, improvements to transportation systems, and the revitalization of neglected zones.
Through this collaboration, emerging companies not only receive technical and financial support but also benefit from an expanded business network. Meanwhile, partner organizations enjoy the agility and innovative capacity of startups, as well as privileged access to cutting-edge solutions.
grant_single_labels|projects
There are eligible projects for this grant. Companies can participate in projects aimed at addressing urban issues, ecological transition, or labor shortages. Eligible activities include:
- Proving a concept or demonstrating feasibility through product tests
- Validating technology
- Offering pre-commercial demonstrations
- Making initial sales
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$45,000
Montreal
Providing a feasibility study for a new bike-sharing system in Montreal.
$48,000
Montreal
Offering a pre-commercial demonstration of an innovative public transportation app in Montreal.
$40,000
Montreal
Developing a pilot project for smart waste management in urban areas of Montreal.
$50,000
Montreal
Creating a mobile app to help Montreal workers find jobs more efficiently.
$35,000
Montreal
Implementing a renewable energy solution for underserved neighborhoods in Montreal.
$45,000
Montreal
Launching a community garden initiative to promote urban agriculture in Montreal.
grant_single_labels|admissibility
The eligibility criteria for this grant program are as follows:
- The start-up company must be located in one of Montréal's boroughs or neighbouring municipalities, be in the start-up phase or operating for fewer than five years, have a team of at least two full-time staff, and post annual sales equal to or lower than $2 million.
- The partner organization must be established within the Montréal agglomeration, be a legal entity with more than 50 employees or independent workers, and be a non-profit corporation such as a cooperative or industrial cluster.
- The project must focus on commercializing a new solution or product in specific activity sectors, and not have received a separate subsidy from the city.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
Start-up companies and social economy businesses in Montréal and its neighbouring municipalities are eligible for this grant. They must meet specific criteria related to their location, operational phase, annual sales, ownership structure, and industry sector.
- Start-up company:
- Head office or principal place of business in Montréal borough or neighbouring municipalities
- In start-up phase or operational for fewer than five years
- Annual sales equal to or lower than $2 million
- Ownership structure requirements for joint-stock companies
- Partner organization:
- Established within the Montréal agglomeration
- Legal entity with more than 50 employees or independent workers
- Non-profit corporation such as a cooperative or industrial cluster
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
There are eligible expenses for this grant. Eligible expenses include:
- Remuneration of temporary or permanent staff
- Professional fees for legal assistance, research, accounting services, etc.
- Purchase of equipment and supplies
- Equipment rental fees
- Licensing or certification fees
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
There are specific geographic areas specified for this grant.
- The company’s head office or principal place of business must be located in one of Montréal’s borough or neighbouring municipalities.
grant_single_labels|criteria
There are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant. The projects will be evaluated based on the growth potential of the start-up, the quality of the project collaboration between the start-up company and the partner organization, and the scope and financial benefits of the project.
- Growth potential of the start-up and capacity to successfully complete the open innovation project
- Quality of the project and of the collaboration between the start-up company and the partner organization
- Scope and financial benefits of the project
grant_single_labels|register
Step 1:
- Complete the application form in French.
- Provide a board of directors' resolution or power of attorney document if applicable.
- Submit the curriculum vitae of each management member.
- Include financial statements or a report with earnings statement and bank statements.
Step 2:
- Estimate the innovative product's sales potential in the target market.
- Prepare a business plan or summarize the business model and commercialization strategy.
Step 3:
- Submit the application and necessary documents.
- Wait for confirmation of project eligibility and maximum subsidy within 30 working days.
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
The grant is designed to stimulate the commercialization of innovative solutions in urban, ecological, or labor transition issues by providing financial and technical support to start-ups partnered with established organizations in Montréal.
- The program requires an agreement with a partner organization that must contribute financially to the project.
- The project must be implemented within a maximum period of twelve months.
- The project should be in one of the specified sectors like biofood, entertainment, logistics, medical technologies, clean technologies, or commercial vitality.
- The maximum subsidy amount is 50% of the project cost, up to $50,000.
- The start-up retains ownership rights associated with product developments during the project.
- Unusable expenses must be submitted with proof of payment, excluding receipts.
- The first grant installment is 60% of the estimated subsidy, with the balance payable upon submission of accountability documents.
Apply to this program
Subsidy Program for Start-Ups in Montréal
This subsidy program supports emerging companies in Montréal by fostering partnerships with established organizations to test and commercialize innovative solutions aimed at addressing urban issues, ecological transformation, or labor shortages. Eligible startups can receive financial and technical aid to enhance their business relations and penetrate the market effectively.
Understanding the Montréal Start-Up Subsidy Program: An In-Depth Guide
The bustling economic landscape of Montréal has nurtured an environment where innovation thrives. Recognized globally for its dynamic business ecosystem, Montréal continually seeks to fortify its position as a leader in sustainable transformation and urban development. In this endeavor, the city has introduced a subsidy program designed uniquely for start-ups. This comprehensive guide will delve into the essence of this subsidy program, exploring its objectives, eligibility criteria, financial assistance mechanisms, and its overall impact on Montreal’s economy.
Objective and Essence of the Subsidy Program
The primary goal of this subsidy initiative is to bolster the commercialization of innovative solutions within the realms of urban challenges, ecological transition, and labor scarcity. By incentivizing collaboration between fledgling companies and established entities, this program aims to seamlessly integrate modern solutions into Montréal's urban fabric. Whether it's environmental management, transportation improvement, or revitalizing urban spaces, this program is intent on fostering a vibrant and sustainable Montréal. Emerging companies are afforded the opportunity to test their groundbreaking solutions in real-world business settings. Paired with established organizations, these start-ups not only gain financial support but are also able to tap into expansive business networks and technical insights. On the flip side, partner organizations stand to benefit from the fresh approaches and innovative agility that start-ups naturally imbibe, leading to a symbiotic relationship that drives mutual growth.
Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria for the subsidy aim to pinpoint and support only the most promising start-ups and collaborations. The start-up must be headquartered within a Montréal borough or its neighboring municipalities and must have been operational for less than five years. This ensures that the program targets businesses in the nascent stages of development, where such aid can be most impactful. Additionally, starting businesses must maintain a full-time team of at least two individuals and report annual sales no greater than $2 million. This threshold guarantees that the subsidy program targets small, emerging companies that truly require initial support rather than larger and more established entities. The program is inclusive of joint-stock companies predominantly owned by Canadian citizens or permanent residents, and social economy enterprises like co-operatives and non-profits are also welcomed. This diversity in eligibility promotes a rich blend of innovative ideas across different business models. For a partnership to qualify, the partner organization must operate within the Montréal agglomeration and must have a workforce exceeding 50 individuals. This ensures that the partner can deliver substantial support and resources to the start-up, creating a fertile ground for innovation.
Financial Assistance Overview
A key highlight of the subsidy program is its generous financial aid structures, designed to ease the burdens of new businesses. The maximum subsidy covers up to 50 percent of the actual project cost, capping at $50,000. This substantial financial support alleviates the immediate fiscal pressures on start-ups, allowing them to focus on honing and commercializing their innovative products or solutions. The program mandates that partner organizations contribute a minimum of 10 percent of the project costs in cash. This stipulation encourages involvement and investment from partner organizations, ensuring that both entities are committed to the project’s success. The program's flexibility extends to the financing package, which can comprise loans, private investments, service contributions, and additional public financial aid. Crucially, throughout the project implementation period, the start-up retains all rights concerning any adaptations or developments made to the innovative product. This approach safeguards the intellectual property interests of the emerging business, empowering them to control and benefit fully from their innovations.
Project Implementation and Accountability
Projects sanctioned under the subsidy must conclude within twelve months, an optimal timeframe that drives swift innovation while ensuring comprehensive development. The activities can span several sectors — including biofood, medical technologies, and clean energy — aligning with Montreal’s strategic focus areas. Once financing is approved, start-ups receive an initial installment covering 60 percent of the estimated subsidy amount. The remainder is disbursed following the submission of accountability documents, which include detailed cost records, payment proofs for admissible expenses, and evidence of partner contributions. In case any eligibility conditions are violated following project completion, such as the relocation of head offices outside Québec, the subsidy may be rescinded partly or fully. This creates a framework of accountability and ensures continued commitment to local economic growth.
The Broader Impact on Montréal’s Economic Landscape
This subsidy program represents more than just financial aid; it's a catalyst designed to spur innovation in Montréal’s booming start-up ecosystem. By facilitating strategic partnerships and reducing the financial burden on fledgling enterprises, it cultivates an environment where innovation can thrive and reach its commercialization potential. As the program encourages the commercialization of solutions targeting key urban issues, it stands to contribute significantly to the city’s economic, social, and environmental objectives. Emerging businesses bring novel solutions to longstanding problems, potentially transforming sectors like transportation, urban planning, and ecological management. Through the subsidy's holistic approach, start-ups can gain traction and credibility, potentially leading to further investment and scaling opportunities. Meanwhile, partner organizations stand to benefit from the cutting-edge solutions integrated into their operations, enhancing their competitiveness and operational efficiency.
Conclusion
Montréal’s subsidy program for start-ups is a testament to the city’s commitment to fostering innovation and sustainable growth. By strategically supporting emerging enterprises and facilitating synergy with established organizations, this program builds a pioneering path toward a dynamic and resilient urban future. As Montréal continues to evolve, programs such as this will play a pivotal role in shaping its economic landscape, driving innovation that paves the way for solutions tailor-made to meet tomorrow's challenges today.