CED Diversify Your Economy (QEPD): How to Apply

CED Diversify Your Economy (QEPD): How to Apply

If your project helps diversify Quebec’s economy, the CED Diversify Your Economy (QEPD) program may cover a large share of your costs. The program is run by Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED). It funds projects that bring in investment. It also supports growth in important sectors and helps local economies become stronger. Knowing how to apply — and what CED expects — can boost your chances of approval.

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What Is the CED Diversify Your Economy (QEPD) Program?

Diversify Your Economy (QEPD) supports projects that help regions depend less on a single industry. The goal is to create long-term economic benefits in Quebec. Both businesses and community organizations can apply. The rules for funding are different depending on your organization type.

Who Can Apply

You can apply if you are a:

• Small or medium-sized enterprise (SME)
• Non-profit organization (NPO)
• Municipality or regional county municipality (RCM)
• Economic development organization
• Indigenous organization
• Co-operative or business association

How Much Funding Is Available

Funding amounts depend on your organization type:

• SMEs:

  • Up to 50% of approved project costs
  • Repayable, interest-free contribution
  • Repayment starts two years after the project ends

• Non-profits and public organizations:

  • Up to 90% of approved project costs
  • Non-repayable financial assistance

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Step-by-Step: How to Apply for CED Diversify Your Economy (QEPD)

1. Make Sure Your Project Matches QEPD Priorities

CED looks for projects that clearly help diversify the economy. Some examples are:

• Attracting foreign investment or international organizations
• Growing tourism or important economic sectors
• Building or improving community economic infrastructure
• Supporting regional innovation and growth

Your project must show it will help the whole region, not just one business.

2. Gather Key Project Information

Before you contact CED, prepare:

• A clear project description and list of goals
• Your total project budget and eligible expenses
• A timeline with start and end dates
• Expected results (jobs, investment, regional benefits)

You can use tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher to quickly filter programs by province and organization type. This saves time before you reach out.

3. Contact Your Regional CED Office

CED does not have a single online application form for QEPD. You must first contact a regional CED advisor. They will:

• Check if your project is eligible
• Tell you what documents you need
• Explain the next steps

This first conversation is very important. Projects that skip this step often get delayed or turned down.

4. Submit a Formal Proposal

If your advisor says your project is a good fit, you’ll be asked to send a full proposal. This usually includes:

• A detailed budget with cost breakdown
• Proof your organization can manage the project
• Financial statements (for SMEs)
• Letters of support or partnerships (if you have them)

CED reviews projects based on economic impact, if the project is doable, and how well it fits regional needs.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Thinking SME funding is non-repayable
   SME funding under QEPD must be paid back. Plan for repayment starting two years after your project ends.

2. Focusing only on business growth
   CED wants to see regional benefits. Projects that only help one business are less likely to get approved.

3. Sending incomplete budgets
   Missing or unclear cost details can slow down the review and raise concerns.

4. Contacting CED too late
   Early talks with a CED advisor can help shape a stronger application.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is CED Diversify Your Economy (QEPD) funding repayable?
For SMEs, funding is repayable with no interest. For non-profits and public organizations, funding is non-repayable.

Q: How much funding can my organization receive?
SMEs can get up to 50% of eligible costs. Non-profits and similar organizations can get up to 90%.

Q: When does repayment start for SMEs?
Repayment starts two years after your approved project ends, so you have time to see results first.

Q: Are Indigenous organizations eligible?
Yes. Indigenous organizations can apply for QEPD funding.

Q: Is QEPD funding taxable?
Usually, yes. Tax rules depend on your organization and how you do your accounting. Ask your accountant for details.

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Next Steps

CED Diversify Your Economy (QEPD) is a good fit if your project supports long-term growth in Quebec’s regions. Focus on showing the impact and contact a CED advisor early.

GrantHub lists active federal and provincial grant programs across Canada. You can see how QEPD compares to other options and find the best fit for your organization.

See also:

• Eligible Expenses Under Regional Economic Development Grants in Quebec (CED)
• What expenses are eligible under regional economic development grants?
• How to Work With Economic Development and Investment Agencies in Canada