SODEC — Support for entrepreneurial development — Stream 1

• Completed and signed application form.
• Detailed project description.
• Project financial plan and estimate.
• Signed service offer or commitment letter from professional advisor(s).
• Funding confirmations from other public or private partners, if applicable.

Who is eligible?

This grant is designed to support the strategic development of Quebec-based cultural enterprises, whether for-profit or non-profit, that are legally constituted and primarily engaged in activities within SODEC's fields of operation. Eligible projects focus on structured and personalized entrepreneurial support that meets the real needs of these enterprises.

• Legally constituted companies, either for-profit or non-profit, primarily operating in SODEC's cultural sectors.
• Enterprises with their head office and main establishment in Quebec, with effective control held by Quebec residents.
• Companies that have been operational for at least one year or have appropriate professional experience, or are new entities resulting from the transfer of existing cultural enterprises.
• Projects addressing specific challenges in geographic positioning, business strategy, financial management, or entrepreneurial succession and transfer.

Who is not eligible

• Individual businesses, except in the arts and crafts sector.

Eligible expenses

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

• Fees for advisors and experts.
• Costs for purchasing specialized information that is pertinent and necessary for the project.
• Any other expenses that are pertinent and necessary for the realization of the project.

Ineligible Costs and Activities

• Expenses incurred before the application date.
• Daily allowances and representation costs, including meals and transport.
• Costs related to cultural content creation or acquisition.
• Professional training, workshops, seminars, conferences, internships, or courses not specifically designed for the project.
• Membership, accreditation, or subscription fees.

Eligible geographic areas

• Quebec.

• Applications are reviewed by SODEC professionals, with external opinions used when needed.
• Projects are assessed on relevance, feasibility, and expected impact, and the agency’s financial capacity is considered in the decision.
• If approved, financial support is formalized through a funding agreement.
• Final payment is made after project activities end and the final report is accepted.

Here are additional relevant details for this grant:

• The grant is designed to support cultural enterprises regardless of their stage of evolution, including start-up, diversification, succession, growth, technological shifts, restructuring, or transfer.
• 70% of the financial assistance is provided upon signing the agreement, and the remaining 30% is due once a final report is submitted and accepted.
• Beneficiaries must provide all necessary records and information for SODEC's periodic program evaluations over five years while maintaining confidentiality.
• SODEC promotes sustainable business practices and encourages applicants to adopt green and responsible approaches.
• The SODEC reserves the right to amend the payment terms based on the nature or complexity of certain projects.