Quebec businesses working on advanced digital or quantum technologies often need support that goes beyond cash grants. Many projects require access to researchers, testing environments, or highly specialized skills. The Digital and Quantum Innovation Platform — PINQ² was created to fill that gap. It connects Quebec companies with applied research expertise and innovation infrastructure.
The Digital and Quantum Innovation Platform (PINQ²) is a Quebec-based innovation platform that supports companies developing digital or quantum technology solutions. Rather than providing direct cash funding, PINQ² offers in-kind support. This means businesses get access to researchers, students, and specialized infrastructure to help move their innovation projects forward.
PINQ² is for applied projects that have a clear business use case. It is meant to help companies in three main ways. First, by improving performance. Second, by developing new digital solutions. Third, by exploring quantum technologies while reducing technical risk.
Key facts at a glance:
PINQ² is not a traditional grant program, but eligibility is still important. Projects must meet certain criteria to use the platform’s services.
You may be eligible if your business:
Startups and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) often participate. Larger organizations may also qualify if their project fits PINQ²’s innovation goals.
PINQ² supports projects that are technical, experimental, or research-driven. These projects often come with costs or risks that are hard to manage alone.
Eligible project types include:
Projects should go beyond basic IT work. For example, a simple website or off-the-shelf software is usually not a fit.
If you want to compare in-kind innovation support with traditional grant options, GrantHub’s eligibility matcher lets you filter programs by province and industry in seconds.
Many people wonder if PINQ² offers direct funding.
PINQ² does not provide cash grants. Instead, it offers:
This in-kind support can greatly reduce your project costs. While you do not receive money, you gain valuable resources and expertise.
Expecting a cash grant
PINQ² provides in-kind support, not direct funding. Make sure your budget reflects this.
Submitting a non-technical project
Routine digital upgrades do not qualify. Your project must involve innovation or applied R&D.
Ignoring collaboration requirements
PINQ² projects require working with researchers or students. Solo projects are not accepted.
Overlooking tax implications
In-kind research support may affect your taxes. Always check with your accountant.
To get started with PINQ², businesses usually contact the platform and submit a project proposal. The proposal is reviewed to make sure it fits the platform’s focus and requirements. If accepted, your team will work with researchers or students, and get access to technical infrastructure.
If you’re looking for more funding options, GrantHub tracks hundreds of grant and innovation support programs across Canada, including in-kind platforms like PINQ².
Q: Does PINQ² provide direct funding or grants?
No. PINQ² offers in-kind support such as research expertise and infrastructure access, not cash funding.
Q: Can startups apply for PINQ² support?
Yes. Startups and SMEs based in Quebec are common participants, as long as the project involves digital or quantum innovation.
Q: What industries can benefit from PINQ²?
Any industry developing digital or quantum solutions may be eligible, including manufacturing, health, AI, and advanced technologies.
Q: Is PINQ² support taxable?
In-kind research support may have tax implications depending on how it is structured. Professional tax advice is recommended.
Q: How do you access PINQ² services?
Businesses typically start by contacting PINQ² and submitting a project proposal for review and intake.
Digital and quantum innovation funding in Quebec is often more than just cash grants. Platforms like PINQ² can reduce development risk by giving your business access to expertise and infrastructure that may otherwise be out of reach.
Ready to explore more innovation support? Try GrantHub to quickly find grant and in-kind support programs that fit your business and project goals.
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