CED Targeted Support for Quebec’s Economically Vulnerable RCMs (REGI & QEPD): How to Apply

CED Targeted Support for Quebec’s Economically Vulnerable RCMs (REGI & QEPD): How to Apply

If your business or organization operates in one of Quebec’s most economically vulnerable regions, federal funding may be available to support growth and recovery. Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED) offers targeted support through the Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) and the Quebec Economic Development Program (QEPD). These programs aim to strengthen local economies and create lasting economic benefits, focusing on specific regional county municipalities (RCMs/MRCs) facing structural economic challenges.

Understanding the CED Targeted Support Program (REGI & QEPD)

This CED initiative encourages sustainable economic development in select regions of Quebec. Funding supports projects that create jobs, improve productivity, or reinforce the regional business ecosystem.

Eligible Regions (RCMs and Regional Administrations)

Your project must be located in one of the following regions to qualify:

• MRC du Golfe-du-Saint-Laurent
• MRC d’Avignon
• MRC de La Haute-Gaspésie
• MRC du Rocher-Percé
• MRC de La Tuque
• Administration régionale Kativik
• MRC de Pontiac
• MRC de La Vallée-de-la-Gatineau

Projects outside these territories are not eligible under this targeted support stream.

Who Can Apply

CED funding is not limited to private companies. Eligible applicants include:

• Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
• Non-profit organizations (NPOs), including those that support businesses
• Business associations and cooperatives
• Cégeps and universities
• Municipalities and municipal economic development agencies

Your project must demonstrate concrete economic benefits for the region, such as job creation, business expansion, or improved regional competitiveness.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for CED targeted support, your project must:

• Take place within one of the eight eligible RCMs or regional administrations
• Be led by an eligible applicant (see above)
• Show clear economic benefits for the eligible region, such as new jobs, business growth, or stronger local supply chains

If you’re unsure of your eligibility, GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter programs by province, region, and organization type in seconds.

Funding Details and Eligible Costs

Funding levels depend on the type of organization:

• SMEs

  • Up to 75% of authorized project costs
  • Generally repayable, interest-free
  • No guarantees required
  • Repayments usually begin two years after the project ends

• Non-profit organizations

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

Authorized costs usually include expenses directly tied to project delivery, such as equipment, professional services, and implementation costs. For more information, see Eligible Expenses Under Regional Economic Development Grants in Quebec (CED).

CED prioritizes projects that contribute to regional growth and recovery, including:

• Business expansion or modernization projects
• Productivity and innovation improvements
• Initiatives that strengthen local supply chains
• Projects delivered by ecosystem organizations that support multiple businesses

Projects must show clear economic benefits for the eligible region.

Application Process

CED does not publish a single fixed deadline, but the process generally follows these steps:

1. Initial discussion with a CED regional office to confirm eligibility and project fit
2. Preparation of a detailed project proposal, including budget and economic impact
3. Formal submission through CED’s application process
4. Assessment and approval, which may include requests for clarification

Because funding is discretionary, contact CED early and prepare a strong case for regional impact.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying from a non-eligible region
  Even strong projects are rejected if they fall outside the listed RCMs.

• Weak economic impact explanation
  CED expects clear regional benefits, not just internal business gains.

• Assuming SME funding is non-repayable
  For-profit contributions are usually repayable. Cash flow planning is essential.

• Submitting without speaking to CED first
  Skipping the initial discussion can lead to misalignment and delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which RCMs are eligible for CED targeted support?
Only the eight listed regions, including Avignon, Pontiac, and Kativik, qualify. Projects outside these territories are not eligible.

Q: How much funding can an SME receive?
SMEs can receive up to 75% of authorized project costs. The contribution is generally repayable, interest-free.

Q: Is CED funding repayable or non-repayable?
For SMEs, funding is usually repayable. For non-profit organizations, assistance is non-repayable.

Q: When do repayments start for SMEs?
Repayments typically begin two years after the project ends, giving businesses time to generate results.

Q: Is CED funding taxable income?
Government assistance is often considered taxable income. Your accountant can confirm how it applies to your situation.

GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant programs across Canada — you can check which ones match your business profile.

Next Steps

CED targeted support for Quebec’s economically vulnerable RCMs can provide valuable support if your project is in the right region and delivers real economic results. Before applying, clarify your eligibility, funding needs, and repayment capacity. GrantHub helps you identify CED programs and related Quebec funding options that align with your location, industry, and project goals.

See also:

• What expenses are eligible under regional economic development grants?
• Small Business and Regional Development Grants: Eligible Expenses