How much funding can be received?

The grant program, jointly administered by the Fonds local d’investissement (FLI) and Fonds local de solidarité (FLS), aims to support the development and economic growth of businesses within the MRC de Portneuf by providing essential financial contributions for various stages of a business lifecycle, including startup, expansion, and entrepreneurship transition, with a maximum funding amount not exceeding $150,000 for FLI and $100,000 for FLS per beneficiary. Eligible activities funded by the program include business startup, acquisition, expansion, improvement, and other projects that promote entrepreneurial initiatives, job creation, and socio-economic benefits in the region.

grant_single_labels|terms_and_conditions

This joint investment fund offers a structured approach to financing, ensuring projects are adequately supported while maintaining financial sustainability. The modalities are designed to accommodate various stages of business growth and development.

Investment through term loans with or without security interests.
Term loans may include participatory elements, such as a royalty on net profits or sales growth, or an option to purchase participating shares.
Possibility of a customized repayment schedule tailored to business realities, such as seasonal operations.
Maximum repayment horizon is typically seven years, extendable to ten years in certain cases.
Short-term financing available through FLS for bridging the gap between confirmed revenue sources.
Investment amounts may vary, with specific caps established per fund and project type.
Moratoriums on capital repayment may be granted under specific circumstances related to project type.
Repayment terms allow for early payment, contingent on loan agreement conditions.

grant_single_labels|projects

The MRC Portneuf — Joint Investment Fund FLI/FLS supports a variety of business projects that contribute to economic development and job creation within the region. Eligible projects are those that enhance business operations and ensure sustainability through different growth and improvement stages.

Business start-up initiatives during the phase between initial commercialization and achieving profitability.
Entrepreneurial succession planning to support the acquisition and management transition for existing businesses.
Business acquisitions, focusing on purchasing assets or significant shares of existing businesses.
Enhancement and transformation projects aimed at improving productivity and implementing sustainable organizational practices.
Business growth and expansion projects, including market diversification and establishing subsidiaries.
Temporary financial bridging solutions awaiting confirmed revenue sources.
Business turn-around projects, supporting companies experiencing short-term, non-critical financial challenges.

grant_single_labels|admissibility

Eligibility for this grant is determined by specific requirements related to the applicant's profile, location, and registration status.

The applicant must be a for-profit business legally constituted under the laws of the Government of Quebec or Canada, or a collective enterprise such as a cooperative or nonprofit organization with commercial activities, as defined under the Social Economy Act.
The business must operate within the territory of the MRC and have its headquarters in Quebec.
The business must be registered with the Quebec Business Register (REQ).
Social economy enterprises applying for the local solidarity fund (FLS) must meet specific conditions outlined in Annex A.

grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply

This grant primarily aims to support legally constituted for-profit businesses and social economy enterprises operating in the MRC territory, aiming for economic impact within Quebec while contributing to local economic development.

For-profit businesses legally constituted under Quebec or Canadian laws.
Social economy enterprises such as cooperatives and not-for-profit organizations that meet specific conditions.
Enterprises operating in sectors aligned with annual intervention priorities adopted by the MRC council.
Businesses with a registered office in Quebec and registered with the Quebec Business Register.
Enterprises committed to creating, maintaining, or safeguarding jobs in the MRC territory.

grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply

This grant excludes certain companies and industries due to their status, involvement in prohibited activities, or ethical considerations. Restrictions ensure that funds support businesses contributing positively to the local economic ecosystem.

Companies registered on the Register of companies not eligible for public contracts (RENA) or with subcontractors listed on RENA.
Enterprises that have failed to meet obligations with previous financial aid from the Ministry or the MRC within the last two years.
State-owned enterprises or those controlled directly or indirectly by any government level.
Companies under protection of the Companies' Creditors Arrangement Act or Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act.
Organizations exhibiting unethical behavior that could tarnish the image of governmental or MRC integrity.
Businesses engaged in legal disputes with the MRC of Portneuf or its municipalities.
Companies with a history of not complying with environmental laws or employment and human rights legislation.
Involvement in the production or distribution of armaments, non-transition fossil fuels, gambling, violent or exploitative activities, and real estate management and development.
Activities related to the production, sale, and service of tobacco or non-healthcare-related drugs, including certain cannabis products.

grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses

The grant covers specific expenses directly related to the investment project for businesses.

Additional working capital needed due to the project's activities for up to two years.
Capital expenditures directly linked to the project's realization, such as technology, land, buildings, equipment, machinery, and rolling stock acquisitions.
Professional fees incurred prior to the project's realization, including feasibility studies, external audits, or impact assessments.
Professional fees strictly and directly related to the implementation of technology, equipment, and machinery, as well as the acquisition, construction, renovation, and layout of the land and premises.
Acquisition costs of voting shares or parts of the target company and assets involved in entrepreneurial succession projects.
Professional fees strictly and directly related to the acquisition transaction and the leadership transition of the company.

grant_eligibility_criteria|zone

This grant targets enterprises operating within the jurisdiction of a specific regional council. Eligible applications must be from businesses conducting their activities in defined localities associated with the funding organization.

Companies must be located within the territory of the MRC de Portneuf.
The head office of the applicant must be situated in Quebec.

grant_single_labels|criteria

The evaluation and selection of projects for the Fonds locaux d’investissement (FLI) and Fonds local de solidarité (FLS) grants focus on several specific criteria to ensure the projects align with economic viability, experience, societal and environmental impact, among other considerations.

Economic viability of the funded enterprise: The project must demonstrate sustainable profitability, repayment capacity, and positive future prospects.
Knowledge and experience of the promoters: Demonstrated relevant expertise and management skills are crucial, although external support can be considered if internal resources are insufficient.
Environmental and societal impacts: Projects should contribute positively to the socio-economic and environmental landscape through sustainable business practices.
Openness towards employees: Consideration of the company’s attitude and approach to labor relations and employee engagement.
Subcontracting and privatization of operations: Funds should not be used to invest in projects solely focused on subcontracting or privatizing operations that merely shift economic activity and jobs.
Participation of other financial partners: It is highly desirable to have capital input from additional sources, including minimal involvement of a financial institution and promoter contributions.
Sustainability of the funds: The self-financing potential of the project is assessed to ensure the long-term balance and sustainability of the funds.

grant_single_labels|register

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

Step 1: Verify Eligibility
Ensure your business or project meets the eligibility criteria outlined in the policy, such as being located within the MRC de Portneuf and operating within approved sectors.
Step 2: Gather Required Documentation
Prepare all necessary documents as per the requirements listed in the application form, which may include project proposals, financial statements, and business plans.
Step 3: Complete Application Form
Fill out the application form provided by the MRC de Portneuf or its designated body.
Ensure all information is accurate and complete before submission.
Step 4: Submit Application
Submit the completed application along with all required documents to the MRC de Portneuf.
Ensure submission is done within any specified deadlines to avoid disqualification.
Step 5: Await Decision
The application will be reviewed by the committee responsible for investment, who meets monthly to approve financial assistance.
Be prepared to provide additional information if requested by the committee.
Step 6: Receive Notification
Once a decision is made, a notification will be sent informing the applicant of the outcome.

grant_single_labels|otherInfo

Further considerations for this grant include:

The grant committee meets monthly to review and approve financial assistance requests.
Projects should demonstrate sustainability and balance within the overall fund portfolio.
The applicant must submit all necessary documentation through the specified financial aid application form.
The investment policy can be modified by the MRC within established frameworks, but all changes must be communicated to relevant overseeing bodies.

Apply to this program

Supporting Economic Growth in Portneuf through Strategic Investments

The FLI/FLS grant program has been established to support businesses that demonstrate strong potential for economic impact in the Portneuf region. This initiative aims to create, maintain, or safeguard jobs while fostering economic development within the municipality.

Detailed Overview of the FLI/FLS Investment Policy and Its Significance

The Communal Investment Policy for the Fonds local d’investissement (FLI) and Fonds local de solidarité (FLS), adopted by the MRC of Portneuf, serves as a strategic tool to stimulate business growth and sustainability on its territory. This policy outlines the mission of "Fonds locaux," which is to invest in businesses contributing to Quebec's economic landscape by promoting viable enterprises and entrepreneurship. Through targeted financial support, it aims to streamline the start-up, expansion, and transformation processes of businesses across multiple sectors.

One of the critical aspects of the FLI/FLS policy is its proactive support approach. Not only does it provide the necessary capital for operational success, but it also supplies entrepreneurs with the essential mentorship and technical advice to navigate the complexities of business development. This support is crucial, especially for start-ups, ensuring they gain a footing in their respective markets and contribute productively to the regional economy.

The investment criteria are robust, ensuring that only projects with clear economic viability, knowledgeable promoters, socio-environmental benefits, and worker inclusivity are supported. This emphasis underscores a commitment to sustainable development principles, balancing economic success with social responsibility. Furthermore, it ensures that businesses remain open to inclusive practices, enhancing workforce relations and contributing positively to community dynamics.

Financial backing from the "Fonds locaux" acts as a vital lever to secure additional financing from conventional institutions, thus increasing the capital available for companies to achieve their business objectives. It covers a wide array of projects, including business start-ups, entrepreneurial succession, acquisition, operational improvement, and temporary financing to support stable business growth. However, sectors such as gambling, armament production, and fossil fuel extraction are excluded, aligning the grants with sustainable and ethical growth imperatives.

The dual nature of the FLI/FLS partnership reflects a collaborative financial ecosystem where joint investments are the norm, although one fund might act independently in specific scenarios. This flexibility is crucial when managing investment risks or optimizing the portfolio's stability and longevity. The program also integrates a comprehensive evaluation mechanism administered by the MRC's investment committee to ensure fair and effective allocation of the financial support.

Overall, the FLI/FLS investment framework is designed to catalyze meaningful economic and social outcomes in the Portneuf region. By strategically allocating financial resources to businesses that meet stringent criteria, the policy not only fosters growth and innovation but also enhances regional economic resilience. This initiative indeed sets the stage for sustained prosperity, aligning with broader objectives of job creation and socio-economic well-being in the municipality.