When a major Quebec business faces a sudden financial crisis, traditional loans and grants often move too slowly. PARESAU Volet 1 exists for these moments. It is an emergency support measure designed to keep strategic Quebec companies operating while longer-term solutions are identified and put in place.
Administered by Investissement Québec, this program focuses on stability first. The goal is to protect jobs, economic activity, and supply chains that matter to Quebec’s economy.
PARESAU – Volet 1: Appui aux entreprises stratégiques dans leurs recherches de solutions is part of Quebec’s emergency and stabilization funding framework.
The program’s purpose is clear:
Unlike standard SME grants, PARESAU Volet 1 offers case-by-case support. Investissement Québec works closely with the business to assess risks, cash needs, and economic impact before determining support.
Program administrator: Investissement Québec
Jurisdiction: Quebec
Status: Open
PARESAU Volet 1 is not open to all businesses. It is reserved for companies considered strategic to Quebec’s economy.
While Investissement Québec evaluates each case individually, eligible businesses typically have:
There is no public revenue or employee minimum, but most supported companies are medium to large enterprises rather than early-stage startups.
If you are unsure whether your business qualifies as “strategic,” tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter Quebec programs by business size, sector, and risk profile in seconds.
There is no fixed maximum funding amount under PARESAU Volet 1.
Key points to know:
The structure is determined after Investissement Québec reviews financial statements, cash flow forecasts, and the proposed path back to stability.
PARESAU Volet 1 funding is meant to keep the business alive, not to fund growth or expansion.
Eligible uses typically include:
Expenses are assessed in relation to the company’s survival and economic importance, not against a fixed list of eligible costs.
This program does not follow a standard online application process.
Here’s how it usually works:
Because of its emergency nature, timelines and documentation requirements vary depending on the urgency of the situation.
Assuming it’s a standard SME grant
PARESAU Volet 1 is case-by-case support, not a general business grant. Most small businesses will not qualify.
Waiting too long to ask for help
The program is designed for early support. Delays can reduce available options.
Lacking a recovery plan
Funding is tied to credible solutions. Businesses without a path forward are unlikely to be supported.
Underestimating scrutiny
Expect detailed financial review. Incomplete or unclear financial data can stall the process.
Q: Is PARESAU Volet 1 a grant or a loan?
It depends on the situation. Funding may be repayable, non-repayable, or a mix of both, as determined by Investissement Québec.
Q: Is there a maximum funding amount?
No. There is no published cap. Funding levels are based on the company’s needs and economic impact.
Q: Is the program still open in Quebec?
Yes. PARESAU Volet 1 is currently open and managed by Investissement Québec.
Q: What types of businesses are considered strategic?
Typically businesses with major job impact, supply chain importance, or regional economic significance.
Q: Is PARESAU funding taxable?
Tax treatment depends on whether the assistance is repayable or non-repayable. A tax professional should review your specific case.
GrantHub helps you compare hundreds of active Quebec and Canadian emergency funding programs—see which ones match your business profile and needs.
PARESAU Volet 1 is a powerful option, but it applies to a narrow group of businesses facing serious challenges. If your company is under financial pressure, understanding all available Quebec emergency and stabilization programs matters.
GrantHub helps you see which funding options fit your size, sector, and province—so you can focus on the programs worth your time.
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