How to Apply for Quebec’s PSCE Export and Commercialization Program

By GrantHub Research Team · · Lire en français

How to Apply for Quebec’s PSCE Export and Commercialization Program

If your Quebec business wants to commercialize a product or expand into new export markets, funding is often the biggest challenge. Quebec’s PSCE Export and Commercialization Program (Programme de soutien à la commercialisation et à l’exportation) helps reduce this risk by supporting marketing, commercialization, and export activities. The program is delivered by Investissement Québec and is currently open to eligible businesses.

Below is a clear, step-by-step explanation of how the PSCE Export and Commercialization Program works and how to apply.


What Is the PSCE Export and Commercialization Program?

The PSCE Export and Commercialization Program supports Quebec-based businesses that want to sell products or services in Quebec or international markets. The program funds projects tied to commercialization strategies, market entry, and export development.

Key points to know:

  • The program is administered by Investissement Québec.
  • It is available to Quebec-based SMEs and large enterprises.
  • Support is provided as financing. This is not a simple grant. Terms depend on the project and business profile.

Who Is Eligible for PSCE Funding?

Eligibility is assessed case by case, but PSCE generally targets businesses that are established in Quebec and actively pursuing commercialization or export growth.

You may be eligible if your business:

  • Is based in Quebec
  • Operates as an SME or large enterprise
  • Has a clear commercialization or export project
  • Can show financial viability and growth potential

Investissement Québec evaluates both the business and the project. Meeting basic criteria does not guarantee approval.


What Types of Projects and Expenses Are Supported?

PSCE funding focuses on activities that directly support commercialization and exports. While exact eligible expenses vary by project, commonly supported costs include:

  • Market development and export preparation activities
  • Commercialization strategies for new or improved products
  • Marketing and promotional initiatives tied to growth
  • Export-related business development efforts

The program helps your business generate sales and enter new markets. It also supports scaling commercial operations. However, it does not fund early-stage R&D or routine operating costs.

Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter Quebec export and commercialization programs that fit your industry and growth stage.


Is PSCE a Grant or a Loan?

Many applicants misunderstand the PSCE Export and Commercialization Program.

PSCE support is usually provided as repayable financing or other structured financial assistance, not a traditional grant. Repayment terms, conditions, and risk-sharing depend on several factors:

  • The type of project
  • The size of your business
  • Your financial health
  • The expected economic impact in Quebec

This structure lets Investissement Québec support larger and more complex commercialization and export projects.


How to Apply for the PSCE Export and Commercialization Program

There is no simple online application form. The PSCE application process is relationship-driven and involves direct engagement with Investissement Québec.

Step-by-step application process:

  1. Prepare your project plan
    Outline your commercialization or export goals. Include target markets, timelines, and expected results.

  2. Gather financial information
    Collect recent financial statements, forecasts, and details on how PSCE funding fits into your financing plan.

  3. Contact Investissement Québec
    Applications are handled through Investissement Québec advisors, not a public intake portal.

  4. Project assessment and due diligence
    Investissement Québec reviews business viability, market potential, and economic benefits.

  5. Financing decision and terms
    If approved, you’ll receive an offer outlining the financing structure and conditions.

Approval timelines depend on project complexity and how ready your documentation is.


Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Thinking PSCE is a non-repayable grant
    Many businesses are surprised by the financing structure. Make sure you plan for repayment.

  • Applying without a clear commercialization strategy
    Vague growth plans weaken your case. Investissement Québec expects clear, measurable outcomes.

  • Waiting too long to contact an advisor
    Early conversations help shape a stronger project before formal review.

  • Ignoring stacking rules
    PSCE can sometimes be combined with other programs, but limits apply.


Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the PSCE Export and Commercialization Program currently open?
Yes. The program is listed as open, but availability depends on Investissement Québec’s budget and priorities.

Q: Can SMEs and large companies both apply?
Yes. PSCE is open to both Quebec-based SMEs and large enterprises, as long as the project meets program objectives.

Q: Can PSCE be combined with other grants or export programs?
In some cases, yes. Grant stacking is assessed individually, and total public funding limits may apply.

Q: How long does PSCE approval take?
Timelines vary. Complex projects with strong documentation move faster than incomplete applications.

Q: What makes a strong PSCE application?
Clear market opportunity, realistic financial projections, and a strong fit with Quebec’s economic priorities.


Next Steps

The PSCE Export and Commercialization Program can help scale your Quebec business. It works best when paired with the right mix of funding. GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant and financing programs across Canada. Check which ones match your business profile to build a complete commercialization and export funding plan.


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