Virage techno - shops, restaurants and accommodation downtown
Laval, QC, Canada
Help businesses in downtown Laval to develop their competitiveness through innovative projects
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
- Retail trade
- Accommodation and food services
- Other services (except public administration)
- Public administration
grant_single|grantors
- Laval Economique
- Ministère de l'économie, de l'innovation et de l'énergie du Québec (MEIE)
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|open
grant_single_labels|preview
Laval Économique offers a subsidy program for retail, restaurant, and hospitality businesses in downtown Laval to support their digital transformation. The program covers up to 50% of digital and technological equipment costs, up to $37,500. Eligible businesses must have been operational for at least two years and meet specific NAICS codes. Supported projects include automation, AI, and digital systems to enhance competitive edge. A documented strategic plan is required for application, and commitments should not be made prior to approval.
grant_single_labels|projects
This grant is dedicated to businesses located in the specific geographical area of downtown Laval. Eligible companies must be situated within this area to qualify for the funding opportunities provided.
- Downtown Laval
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$18,750
Implement a virtual reality experience upgrade at a local museum
$18,750
Install automated checkout systems in a local grocery store
$11,250
Implement NFC payment solutions at a café
$18,750
Develop an AI-driven CRM system for a local hotel
$12,500
Upgrade the digital signage system at a local restaurant
$18,750
Deploy IoT-based inventory control for a retail store
grant_single_labels|admissibility
To be eligible for this grant, companies must meet specific criteria regarding their business operations and project plans within the designated area.
- The company must be engaged in the retail, restaurant, or accommodation sector and listed under the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes 41, 44, 45, 53, 54, 561, 721, 811, 812, 814, and 7225.
- The company must have been conducting commercial activities for at least two years.
- The company must be located within the downtown perimeter of Laval and must make the investment in a Laval-based establishment.
- The company must demonstrate that the project is based on a diagnostic and an action plan resulting from a documented strategic planning process.
- The company must present a digital transformation project.
- No expenses or contractual commitments should be confirmed before the application submission date and receipt of acknowledgment from the program responsible.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
Eligible applicants for the grant should be businesses in the commerce, restaurant, and accommodation sectors, listed under certain NAICS codes. These businesses must have been operational for at least two years and located within the downtown area of Laval.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply
This grant is tailored to support specific sectors within the downtown Laval area. Companies not operating within these predefined sectors do not qualify for funding.
- Companies not involved in retail trade, foodservice, or accommodation sectors.
- Businesses operating outside the downtown Laval perimeter.
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
The grant is designed to help businesses in the retail, restaurant, and accommodation sectors to enhance their digital transformation. Eligible projects focus on incorporating technology to boost digital presence and operational efficiency.
- Automation and robotic systems implementation.
- Utilization of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR).
- Adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) solutions.
- Installation of NFC (near-field communication) and IoT (Internet of Things) devices.
- Deployment of smart kiosks and specialized software.
- Development or upgrade of IT systems including electronic stock control.
- Integration of digital and automated checkout systems.
- Setup of interactive screens and digital signage.
- Use of CRM systems for enhanced customer relationship management.
- Implementation of access control systems and home automation (RFID).
- Enhancement of security systems using computer vision technology.
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
The grant covers specific expenses related to the acquisition and implementation of digital transformation equipment and accessories.
- Acquisition costs for equipment and accessory components (excluding material, inventories, and other supplies).
- Direct expenses related to the implementation of equipment, including transportation and leasehold improvements.
- Costs for the acquisition and implementation of software.
- Professional fees related to the project.
- Direct labor costs assigned to the project, limited to the hourly rate.
grant_single_labels|criteria
The grant for digital transformation in Laval's downtown area has detailed evaluation and selection criteria for eligible enterprises. These criteria help the committee assess applications to determine the beneficiaries of financial aid.
- Company must belong to industries listed under NAICS codes 41, 44, 45, 53, 54, 561, 721, 811, 812, 814, and 7225.
- Company must have been conducting business for at least two years.
- Company must be located in the downtown Laval area and make the investment in a Laval establishment.
- The project must be supported by a strategic documented planning that includes a diagnostic and action plan.
- Project must aim at digital transformation and enhancing the company's digital presence.
- Expenses and contractual commitments should not be made before the financial aid request submission and acknowledgment receipt by the program manager.
- Complete files will be reviewed by a committee that selects beneficiaries based on program terms and conditions.
grant_single_labels|register
Here are the steps to submit an application for this grant:
- Step 1: Ensure Eligibility
- Verify that the business operates within the commerce, restaurant, or hospitality sectors under the specified NAICS codes.
- Ensure the business has been active for at least two years and is located in downtown Laval.
- Confirm that a strategic document-based diagnostic and action plan for digital transformation is in place.
- Step 2: Prepare Required Documentation
- Complete the application form.
- Gather and prepare financial statements for the past two years.
- Compile the diagnostic and digital transformation plan.
- Step 3: Submit Application
- Submit the completed application form along with all required documents to Laval économique.
- Ensure that no expenditures or contractual commitments are confirmed prior to the receipt of acknowledgement from the program manager.
- Step 4: Receive Acknowledgement
- Await receipt confirmation from the program manager, which validates the submission of your application.
- Keep a record of the confirmation for your files.
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
The grant aims to assist businesses in the retail, restaurant, and lodging sectors in Laval's downtown area to enhance their digital transformation efforts. The program covers up to 50% of the equipment acquisition costs, with specific eligibility criteria and notable exclusions.
- Excludes realization of a website as part of the digital presence
- Targets businesses with an active commercial presence for at least two years
- Requires completion of a strategic planning process with documented diagnostic and action plan
- Excludes costs related to materials, inventory, and other supplies
- Offers non-repayable financial assistance
- Eligibility includes specific business sectors identified by NAICS codes
- Additional financial bonuses available for projects effectively utilizing the Internet of Things (IoT)
grant_single_labels|contact
y.cupidon@laval.ca
4388375623
Apply to this program
Leverage Digital Transformation with Laval Economic's Grant
This grant program is designed to support businesses in the retail, restaurant, and hospitality sectors within the downtown Laval area in their digital transformation efforts. By covering up to 50% of equipment acquisition costs, the program aids businesses in adopting new technologies to enhance their digital presence and operational efficiency.
Detailed Overview of Laval Economic's Virage Techno Grant Program
In response to the growing need for digital integration within the commerce, restaurant, and hospitality sectors, Laval Economic has launched the Virage Techno – Commerces, Restaurants et Hébergements au Centre-Ville program. This initiative aims to equip eligible businesses with the necessary tools to thrive in an increasingly digital marketplace, offering up to 37,500$ in funding to cover half of the costs associated with relevant technological advancements.
The primary goal of the grant is to equalize the playing field by providing smaller local businesses in Laval with the capabilities to compete against larger e-commerce giants. This is achieved by subsidizing the purchase of equipment and software integral to improving digital operations, such as intelligent kiosks, CRM systems, and NFC technology. By implementing these changes, businesses can significantly augment their customer engagement and service delivery.
Laval Economic strategically structures the Virage Techno grant into three comprehensive phases to maximize the efficiency and impact of the transformation projects. Phase I entails a detailed diagnostic of the current state of the business’s technological adoption. Phase II focuses on strategic planning, where businesses develop a solid, documented plan of action to implement digital solutions. Finally, Phase III involves the realization of these projects, allowing businesses to apply for financial aid once the prior phases are adequately completed.
A noteworthy aspect of this grant is its non-repayable nature, providing financial relief without the burden of repayment, thus affording businesses the freedom to allocate resources effectively across various aspects of their digital transformation plan. Additionally, projects that heavily incorporate the Internet of Things (IoT) can receive bonus funding, making it an attractive option for businesses eager to leverage interconnected devices.
To qualify for this grant, businesses must operate within the specified NAICS codes and be located within Laval's central business district. They should have a minimum of two years of operational history, ensuring that they are established entities ready for transformation. Furthermore, each application requires a demonstration of a strategic approach to digital adoption, supported by a diagnostic and a well-outlined action plan.
Beyond the pure financial benefits, the grant also represents a commitment to fostering a more robust economic ecosystem in Laval. With support for projects that include automation, AI, virtual and augmented reality, and other advanced technologies, the grant is poised to propel local businesses towards innovative and sustainable growth. The broader impact of this initiative not only strengthens individual businesses but also contributes to the digital advancement of the entire Laval economy.
Through strategic partnerships with public and private entities, Laval Economic ensures that businesses partaking in this transformation journey receive comprehensive support, helping them navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape. In sum, this grant offers a pivotal opportunity for eligible businesses in downtown Laval to embrace digital transformation, thereby bolstering their competitive edge and driving future economic prosperity.
