How much funding can be received?

The Tourism Growth Program in Quebec offers funding up to $250,000 to enhance local tourism attractions and experiences, with a focus on promoting Indigenous tourism, sustainable and off-peak tourism activities, and regional economic development. Eligible activities must add value to existing tourism offerings and demonstrate potential for increased attraction of visitors from outside Quebec.

grant_single_labels|terms_and_conditions

The Tourism Growth Program — Quebec offers financial support to enhance and diversify the tourism sector in Quebec, with specific terms based on the type of applicant. Financial contributions are structured to meet the needs of different organizations in the tourism industry.

Financial contributions are typically over $60,000 and can reach up to $250,000, depending on the project's financial requirements and scope.
For small and medium enterprises (SMEs), the contributions are generally repayable.
For non-profit organizations (NPOs), the contributions are generally non-repayable, aiding in their development and support without financial repayment obligations.

grant_single_labels|projects

Eligible projects under the Tourism Growth Program in Quebec are centered around enhancing and diversifying the local tourism offerings. They focus on involving Indigenous communities and prolonging the tourism season while aiming for sustainable development and increased visitor attraction.

Projects that increase tourism benefits to communities by attracting more visitors to regions, especially rural areas.
Initiatives supporting Indigenous tourism industries, focusing on culture, heritage, and traditions as main attractions.
Development of sustainable tourism offerings considering economic, social, and environmental impacts.
Projects that develop or enhance active tourism experiences such as outdoor, nature, and adventure activities.
Projects aimed at extending tourism activities beyond the traditional high season or throughout the year.

grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample

$ 120,000

Development of a sustainable winter tourism trails network

$ 75,000

Establishment of a new rock climbing route to boost active tourism

$ 60,000

Creativity workshops in rural settings to attract cultural tourism

$ 200,000

Creation of a sustainable eco-lodge in a remote region

$ 70,000

Introduction of a cycling festival to draw visitors in spring

$ 200,000

Expansion of the Indigenous Cultural Centre to enhance tourism experiences

grant_single_labels|admissibility

Eligibility for this grant is determined by specific requirements related to the type of businesses or organizations involved and their activities within the tourism industry.

The applicant must be a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME), a non-profit organization (NPO), or a social enterprise active in the tourism industry.
Enterprises owned by Indigenous people, including those that are sole proprietorships, band councils, and municipalities within Nunavik, or Indigenous tourism organizations are eligible.
For SMEs or NPOs located in economically vulnerable areas or in Eastern Montreal, more lenient program conditions may apply.

grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply

Eligible applicants for the Programme pour la croissance du tourisme (PCT) in Québec include small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), non-profit organizations (NPOs), and social economy enterprises involved in the tourism industry. Indigenous-owned businesses, such as sole proprietorships, band councils, and municipalities in Nunavik, or Indigenous tourism organizations are also eligible. Additionally, SMEs or NPOs located in economically vulnerable RCMs or Eastern Montreal may have access to relaxed program conditions.

grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply

This grant excludes certain companies and industries due to their status or main activity. The restrictions aim to ensure that funds are directed toward strategic sectors aligned with the grant's objectives.

Festivals and major events that already attract out-of-province visitors.
Companies not primarily focused on the tourism industry or whose services are not mainly for public use or benefit.
Restaurants or food services.
Hotel chains.
Retail sector businesses.
Travel agencies.

grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses

The Tourism Growth Program in Quebec aims to boost the tourism industry's capacity, attractiveness, and sustainability through strategic projects and activities. It prioritizes projects that enhance local attractions, particularly those supporting Indigenous tourism and extending tourism activities beyond traditional seasons.

Projects that increase tourism spin-offs in rural and regional communities.
Development and promotion of Indigenous tourism initiatives leveraging culture and traditions.
Creation or enhancement of sustainable tourism experiences that consider economic, social, and environmental impacts.
Development or enhancement of active tourism experiences such as outdoor and adventure activities.
Projects aimed at extending tourism activity beyond the traditional peak seasons.

grant_eligibility_criteria|zone

This program targets businesses and organizations in particular regions to enhance local tourism offerings. Priority is given to geographical areas that are economically vulnerable or those in need of bolstering tourism capacity.

Economically vulnerable regions within Quebec.
The eastern part of Montreal.
Remote and rural areas across Quebec.

grant_single_labels|criteria

The evaluation and selection of projects for the Programme pour la croissance du tourisme under this grant are based on the demonstrated impact and readiness of the project aligned with the program's goals.

Impact on the development of tourism in the region.
Readiness of the project for implementation.
Financial involvement of other stakeholders.
Potential to attract tourists to lesser-known or underserved areas.
Direct impact on increasing the attraction of these areas for visitors from outside Quebec.

grant_single_labels|register

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

Step 1: Determine Eligibility
Review the eligibility criteria for SMEs and non-profit organizations in the tourism sector.
Consider the focus on local attraction capacity and Indigenous tourism initiatives.
Step 2: Project Preparation
Develop a project proposal that aligns with the program's objectives and priorities.
Ensure the proposal addresses increasing tourist visits and developing sustainable tourism.
Step 3: Financial Planning
Calculate the financial assistance needed, between $60,000 and $250,000.
Consider if contributions are repayable (for SMEs) or non-repayable (for non-profits).
Step 4: Contact Authorities
If the project requires funding above $60,000, contact the program administrators directly.
For projects seeking $60,000 or less, visit the partner organizations' websites as directed.
Step 5: Application Submission and Confirmation
Once contacted, follow instructions on how to formally submit your application.
Ensure all documents and forms are accurately completed and submitted before the deadline.

grant_single_labels|otherInfo

Here are additional relevant details for this grant:

The program is implemented by Canada's regional development agencies, highlighting its integration into broader economic development strategies.
A specific emphasis is placed on supporting rural and remote regions to enhance their local tourism attractions.
The program is a part of a federal strategy for tourism growth aimed at fostering long-term stability and investments in the industry.

Apply to this program

Boost the Growth of Your Tourism Initiative

The Programme pour la croissance du tourisme (PCT) in Quebec extends crucial financial support to help SMEs, NPOs, and communities enhance their tourism products and experiences, reinforcing Canada’s appeal as a year-round prime destination. With a dedicated budget of $21.1 million, the program focuses on amplifying local attractions' capacity to draw visitors from outside Quebec, particularly in rural and remote areas.

Details on How the PCT Fosters Tourism Growth and Economic Development

The Programme pour la croissance du tourisme (PCT) is instrumental in advancing the tourism sector in Quebec by injecting $21.1 million into the local economy, specifically targeting SMEs, non-profit organizations, and social enterprises involved in tourism within economically vulnerable MRCs and the Eastern Montreal region. Recognizing tourism as a pivotal economic engine, the PCT accentuates its efforts on boosting infrastructure and capacity especially in less frequented, rural, and remote areas to increase their attractiveness to international visitors.

The program strategically supports diversification and enhancement of tourism offerings which directly contributes to the federal strategy of stimulating long-term growth and stability within the industry across Canada. A significant goal of the program is the elevation of traditional and contemporary Indigenous tourism experiences, thereby dedicating approximately 15% of its funds to Indigenous-led tourism initiatives. This commitment not only supports Indigenous communities in showcasing their culture, traditions, and expertise but also enriches Canada's overall tourism narrative with authentic, culturally significant experiences.

Additionally, the PCT places an acute emphasis on sustainable tourism development. Projects funded under this program must consider their economic, social, and environmental impacts, ensuring that the needs of visitors, industry professionals, community, and the environment are balanced. The approach to sustainability covers a broad spectrum, encompassing eco-friendly activities, conservation principles, and community-centric tourism, which are all essential for creating lasting effects and resilience in touristic offerings.

Moreover, entrepreneurs are encouraged to prolong the tourist seasons beyond the traditional peak times by crafting innovative products, services, or experiences that lure tourists year-round. This includes the development of outdoor and adventure tourism activities which can adapt to various seasonal demands, thus maximizing visitor engagement and local economic impact throughout the year.

Through this program, eligible initiatives are assessed not just on their immediate financial needs but also on their potential to significantly impact regional tourism development. Priority is granted to projects that are not only ready for implementation but also demonstrate collaborations with local stakeholders. Such collaborations can leverage additional financial resources which augment the project's scale and efficacy. Furthermore, for projects centered in urban tourist hubs, the program prioritizes those facilitating the expansion of tourism into less developed areas, effectively helping these regions harness their touristic potential.

The PCT remains available through 2026, allowing for projects that can meet the needed criteria and align with broader economic goals to be realized. By bolstering the infrastructure, enhancing diverse cultural expressions, and extending tourist seasons, the program helps create sustainable employment opportunities while increasing the cultural richness and economic prosperity of Quebec’s tourism landscape. Overall, the PCT represents a vital avenue for tourism operators in Quebec aiming to innovate and thrive within a globally competitive industry.