If your Quebec business is developing a new product, process, or technology, finding funding can be challenging. Investissement Québec’s Programme innovation is designed to support innovation projects and the commercialization of new solutions, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The program is open now and supports projects carried out in Quebec or with partners outside the province.
The Programme innovation helps businesses finance innovation and commercialization projects through tailored financial support. Unlike many federal programs, this is a Quebec-based initiative delivered by Investissement Québec. The support is flexible and depends on your project and risk profile.
Eligibility for the program includes:
Eligibility is reviewed case by case, so strong project documentation is important.
The program supports many types of innovation activities, such as:
Projects can include outside collaborators, such as research centres or international partners, if they benefit Quebec.
Investissement Québec does not list a set maximum funding amount for the Programme innovation. The funding you receive depends on:
Support is usually offered as structured financing or mixed financial assistance rather than a simple grant.
Applying for the Programme innovation takes more effort than filling out a short form. The process is structured and involves several steps.
Before you contact Investissement Québec, be ready to explain:
Vague or incomplete project descriptions often cause delays.
Applications usually begin with a conversation with an Investissement Québec advisor. You might need to submit:
The advisor will check your fit for the Programme innovation and suggest the right financing structure.
If your project moves forward, Investissement Québec will do a thorough review. This can include:
Approval timelines depend on how complex your project is.
GrantHub’s eligibility matcher is useful for finding Quebec innovation programs by industry and project type before you start these conversations.
Programme innovation often involves repayable or structured financing. Planning for a simple grant can cause problems.
Technical innovation is not enough. You need to show market demand and a clear plan to earn revenue.
Missing forecasts or unclear budgets can slow down the review process.
Early conversations can help shape your project and improve your chances of approval.
Q: Is Investissement Québec’s Programme innovation a grant or a loan?
It is usually structured or mixed financing, which may include repayable parts. The exact structure depends on your project and risk profile.
Q: Can startups apply?
Yes, startups can apply, especially if they are based in Quebec and can show strong innovation and commercialization potential.
Q: Are projects with international partners eligible?
Yes. Projects may include partners outside Quebec if they support the program’s goals and benefit Quebec’s economy.
Q: Is funding from Programme innovation taxable?
Government assistance is generally taxable income in Quebec, but the treatment depends on the financing structure. Check with your accountant.
Q: Is there a fixed application deadline?
The program is currently open. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis, as long as funding is available.
Applying for Investissement Québec’s Innovation Program starts with a clear, well-documented project and early contact with an advisor. If you want to see how this program compares to other Quebec and federal innovation funding, GrantHub can help you review your options and plan your funding strategy.
GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant and financing programs across Canada. You can check which ones match your business profile and innovation plans.
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