If you are planning a big investment in Quebec, the first step is often the most uncertain. Before you buy equipment, expand your plant, or start a digital project, you need clear analysis. ESSOR Volet 1 helps pay for feasibility studies and digital diagnostics so you can make smart choices before spending money.
ESSOR Volet 1 is one part of Quebec’s larger ESSOR program, run by Investissement Québec. It supports early-stage analysis for future investment projects. The funding is not for buying assets or putting solutions in place. It is only for studies that help you decide if your project makes sense.
ESSOR – Volet 1: Appui à la concrétisation de projets d’investissement (études de faisabilité et diagnostic numérique) supports Quebec businesses getting ready for an investment project but needing expert analysis first.
You can get funding for activities like:
These studies must be linked to a planned investment project. General business planning or unrelated consulting does not qualify.
The program gives financial support, but the amount depends on your project’s size, costs, and the review by Investissement Québec. There is no set maximum. Each project is judged case by case.
To apply for ESSOR Volet 1, your business must meet certain rules. Each application is reviewed on its own, but most need to:
Public bodies and individuals usually cannot apply. Investissement Québec will also look at your financial health, your growth plans, and how your future investment could help the economy.
Applying for ESSOR Volet 1 is not as simple as filling out an online form. There is a structured process, and you will work with an advisor.
Write a clear summary of your future investment. It does not need every detail yet. This could be new equipment, expanding your plant, or upgrading digital systems.
You need to show:
If your description is too vague, your application may be delayed.
You start your application with an Investissement Québec advisor. There is no self-serve portal. The advisor will check if you qualify and tell you what documents to prepare.
You will usually need:
The review time can change depending on your project. Complex projects or missing documents slow things down.
GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you find Quebec funding programs by project type and stage, which is helpful if ESSOR Volet 1 is only part of your plan.
No real investment plan
ESSOR Volet 1 does not pay for studies that are not linked to a specific investment. Make sure your analysis supports a real future project.
Starting too soon
Do not start your study before you get approval. Costs before authorization may not be covered. Always check timing with Investissement Québec.
Using generic consultant proposals
Your proposal must show how the study’s results will help your investment decision, not just give general advice.
Assuming you get a set amount
There is no fixed grant amount. The support depends on your project’s value, costs, and possible economic benefits.
Q: Is ESSOR Volet 1 a grant or a loan?
ESSOR Volet 1 is usually non-repayable financial support, but the agreement terms can vary. Investissement Québec will confirm the details when you are approved.
Q: Can startups apply for ESSOR Volet 1?
Some startups can apply if they are incorporated and have a solid investment project. Very early-stage businesses with no revenue may have a harder time qualifying.
Q: What expenses are eligible under ESSOR Volet 1?
You can get support for professional fees for feasibility studies and digital diagnostics. You cannot use the funding for buying equipment, software, or starting the project itself.
Q: Can ESSOR Volet 1 be combined with other grants?
Sometimes you can combine this with other provincial or federal programs, but it depends on total government support rules.
Q: How long does approval take?
There is no set timeline. It depends on how complex your project is and if your application is complete.
GrantHub lists hundreds of active grant programs across Canada. You can use it to see which ones fit your business if you are planning a larger investment.
ESSOR Volet 1 is for businesses that want to lower risk before making big investment decisions. If you are planning a feasibility study or digital diagnostic in Quebec, this program is a good starting point.
To learn more, check out guides like How to stack grants and loans without violating funding rules, What expenses are eligible under regional economic development grants?, or Impulsion PME vs Other Quebec Startup Funding Programs. GrantHub can help you see where ESSOR Volet 1 fits in your overall funding plan.
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