If you run a business in Quebec, you may be eligible for non-repayable funding that does not come from taxes or loans. Quebec’s Immigrant Investor Business Assistance Program uses interest generated from immigrant investor capital to support local companies. The program is administered by Investissement Québec and is currently open.
This guide explains how the program works, who can apply, and what the application process looks like in practice.
The Programme des immigrants investisseurs pour l’aide aux entreprises is a Quebec government funding program managed by Investissement Québec. It provides non-repayable financial contributions to Quebec-based businesses. The funding comes from interest earned on capital invested by immigrant investors and managed by Investissement Québec.
Key points to know:
Funding levels depend on investment returns. There is no fixed annual intake. The program does not publish a maximum funding amount.
The program is designed to support businesses operating in Quebec. While Investissement Québec does not publish a detailed public checklist, the intended recipients are local companies that meet the program’s internal criteria.
In general, you should expect to demonstrate:
Immigrant status is not required to apply. The program name refers to the funding source, not the applicant.
GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter Quebec programs by business type and location in seconds.
Funding decisions are made on a project-by-project basis. Investissement Québec evaluates how your proposed project supports business development and Quebec’s economy.
Common project themes may include:
Eligible expenses are not published as a fixed list. Your application must clearly link costs to the approved project scope.
For a broader view, see What Business Expenses Are Eligible Across Canadian Grants and Loans?
There is no publicly stated minimum or maximum funding amount under the Immigrant Investor Business Assistance Program. The amount you may receive depends on three things:
Since funding availability changes from year to year, strong projects with clear economic value tend to perform better in the evaluation process.
Unlike many federal grants, this program does not use a standardized online application form. Applications are handled directly through Investissement Québec.
Here is how the process typically works:
Define your project clearly
Outline objectives, timelines, and expected business outcomes in Quebec.
Prepare financial information
Include budgets, financial statements, and funding needs tied directly to the project.
Contact Investissement Québec
Applications are initiated through an Investissement Québec representative or regional office.
Submit supporting documents
You may be asked for incorporation documents, ownership structure, and operational details.
Evaluation and decision
Investissement Québec assesses eligibility, project merit, and funding availability.
Because intake is not always advertised, working with an advisor or tracking programs regularly is important. GrantHub can help you stay up to date on changing program statuses.
Assuming it’s an immigration program
The funding is for businesses. Immigrant status does not affect eligibility.
Applying without a defined project
General operating funding without a clear project is unlikely to be approved.
Expecting fixed funding amounts
This program does not publish standard contribution limits.
Ignoring tax implications
Government contributions may be taxable. Always confirm with your accountant.
Q: Is the funding really non-repayable?
Yes. Contributions under this program do not need to be repaid, unlike loans or credit facilities.
Q: Do immigrant-owned businesses get priority?
There is no public indication of ownership-based priority. Projects are assessed on business merit and economic impact in Quebec.
Q: Can startups apply?
Startups may be eligible if they are operational in Quebec and can demonstrate project viability, though decisions are case-specific.
Q: Is the funding taxable?
In many cases, government contributions are considered taxable income. Confirm treatment with a qualified tax professional.
Q: How often does the program accept applications?
There is no fixed intake schedule. Availability depends on interest revenues and program allocations.
The Immigrant Investor Business Assistance Program is a valuable option if your Quebec-based business has a strong project for growth or development. Since funding amounts and intakes are not guaranteed, it’s important to prepare a clear proposal and stay informed about program status.
Reviewing which programs match your business profile can help you plan your funding approach with more certainty. GrantHub tracks many active grant programs across Canada, including those managed by Investissement Québec.
See also:
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