How much funding can be received?

Funds up to 20% of admissible expenses, capped at $10000 per project.

What is the deadline to apply?

The deadline to apply is not specified.

Who are the financial supporters of the PME MTL — Commerce X Design?

PME MTL — Commerce X Design is funded by PME MTL

What are PME MTL — Commerce X Design's eligibility criterias?

Must be a for-profit business with a storefront in PME MTL Centre-Est or PME MTL Centre-Ville territory Must provide at least 20% of project funding Must submit a business plan or summary with a 3-year budget projection

PME MTL — Commerce X Design

Last Update: July 22, 2025

Montréal, QC

Financial support for business design integration and revitalization

PME MTL — Commerce X Design at a glance

Eligible Funding

Max. $10,000
Up to 20% of project cost

Timeline

Continuous Intakes

Financing Type

Grant and Funding

Expert Advice

Eligible Industries

Retail trade

Grant Providers

PME MTL

Program status

Open

Overview of the PME MTL — Commerce X Design program

The PME MTL — Commerce X Design grant provides up to $10,000 in non-repayable funding to local businesses in Montréal for the integration of professional design services, including interior design and architectural improvements. This program aims to revitalize commercial spaces, enhance customer experience, and strengthen business identity through eligible activities such as hiring designers, architects, and improving store layouts.

Financing terms and conditions

Non-repayable contribution of $10,000 per approved project.
The grant covers a maximum of 20% of the total project cost.
A minimum of 75% of the granted amount must be allocated to professional fees.

Eligible projects & activities

Integration of professional design services to improve the interior layout and functionality of retail businesses.
Enhancement of customer experience through strategic redesign of commercial spaces.
Reinforcement of a business's visual identity by collaborating with designers, graphic artists, or architects.
Revitalization initiatives aiming to increase the attractiveness and appeal of street-level retail businesses.
Implementation of professionally guided renovations that add value to existing commercial establishments.

Examples of admissible projects:

$ 10,000

Redesign boutique to highlight local artisanal products and brands

$ 10,000

Create an immersive café ambiance through strategic interior design

$ 9,500

Rebrand organic grocer with sustainable interior and signage upgrades

$ 9,500

Upgrade bike shop with branded minimalist storefront and interior

$ 9,500

Refresh thrift shop with modern layout and new window displays

$ 10,000

Transform bookstore with architectural upgrades and flexible event space

Eligibility criteria of the PME MTL — Commerce X Design program

The business must have a commercial address within the PME MTL Centre-Est or PME MTL Centre-Ville intervention area and operate a street-facing retail location.
The applicant must provide at least 20% equity contribution to the project.
The application must include a business plan or summary featuring a design component and a three-year financial forecast.
The business must demonstrate the need for and capacity to complete the proposed project.
Start-ups must have a planned commercial establishment on one of the two eligible territories; growing businesses must operate commercially within one of the territories and have a growth project requiring professional design services.

Who is eligible?

Storefront businesses located in the PME MTL Centre-Est territory
Storefront businesses located in the PME MTL Centre-Ville territory

Who is not eligible

Businesses not located within the PME MTL Centre-Est or PME MTL Centre-Ville intervention territories.
Companies without a street-front (brick-and-mortar) commercial presence.

Eligible expenses

Professional fees for hiring graphic designers, commercial designers, window display designers (étalagistes), and architects.
Certain fit-out costs directly related to engaging professional design services, subject to specific conditions.

Eligible geographic areas

Businesses located within the PME MTL Centre-Est territory in Montreal.
Businesses located within the PME MTL Centre-Ville territory in Montreal.

Eligibility criteria of the PME MTL — Commerce X Design program

Submission of at least two quotes for each design service involved in the project.
Project must be at least 60% completed before disbursement (opening or reopening phase).
At least 75% of the granted funds must be allocated to professional service fees.
Integration of the recommendations and/or the work of design professionals into the operating business.
Demonstration that the project adds value to the existing business.

How to apply to the PME MTL — Commerce X Design program

Check eligibility requirements

Confirm your business is located within PME MTL Centre-Est or Centre-Ville territory
Verify eligibility criteria such as streetfront presence and a minimum 20% project financial contribution

Prepare documentation

Prepare a business plan or summary including a design component
Create a 3-year projected budget
Demonstrate the needs and capacity to complete the project

Gather required quotes

Obtain at least two quotes for each design service required for the project

Submit application form

Fill out and submit the interest form or application through the official PME MTL platform

Additional information

Applications are accepted on a continuous basis until available funds are depleted.
A minimum of two quotes must be obtained for each design service involved in the project.
At least 75% of the allocated sum must be used for professional fees.
The recommendations or work from design professionals must be integrated into the operating business.

Apply to this program