Finance your startup

Canada Small Business Financing Program

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

This program could help you secure up to $1 million from a financial institution by sharing the risk with your lender.

The loans can be used to:

• Purchase or improve land or buildings
• Purchase leasehold improvements or improve leased property
• Purchase new or used equipment

Eligible small businesses should have annual gross revenues of no more than $10 million.

Discuss your business needs with a financial officer at any bank, caisse populaire, or credit union in Canada. Find a lender near you.

Learn more

Canadian Agricultural Loans Act program

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

If you are an agricultural producer, this program could help you get a loan from a bank, a credit union or a caisse populaire.

Eligibility:

• Existing farmers
• Beginning or start-up farmers
• Farmers taking over the family farm
• Agricultural co-operatives

Loans are limited to a maximum of:

• $500,000 for land and construction
• $350,000 for all other loan purposes

Apply directly through your lending institution.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more

Development Capital

Investissement Québec

You could receive funding of $5 million or more in the form of a loan guarantee, a subordinate loan or equity participation for projects such as:

• Share buybacksBusiness acquisition
• Productivity improvement or growth (expansion, equipment upgrades)

All Quebec businesses are eligible, except for those working in the following sectors:

• Agriculture
• Finance and insurance
• Real estate
• Retail sales
• Other sectors in which the client base is made up mainly of individuals, except for the tourism sector

Other conditions apply.

Learn more

ESSOR — Funding support for development projects

Ministère de l'Économie et de l'Innovation

Is your business involved in manufacturing, software publishing, research, environmental services, or tourism? If so, you could get a loan guarantee covering up to 70% of a net loss for investments or a loan covering up to 50% of the cost of your growth projects, such as:

• Business creation
• Business expansion or modernization

The project must help maintain or create jobs.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more Find contacts

Fonds afro-entrepreneurs — Loans to Afro-Québécois businesspeople

Filaction

Are you a member of one of Quebec's black communities? You could receive a loan or loan guarantee of $50,000 to $500,000 to:

• Start up or expand your business
• Purchase equipment
• Meet your cash flow needs
• Increase your working capital

Your business must have been in existence for no more than 5 years or be in the process of starting up.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more Find contacts

Fonds d'aide à l'économie de Lac-Mégantic

Ministère de l'Économie et de l'Innovation

You could get financial assistance for eligible projects or activities carried out within the town of Lac-Mégantic, such as:

• Assessment projects
• Market development
• Hiring strategic personnel
• Business start-ups supporting economic and tourism development
• Installation or improvement of public infrastructures

The fund will contribute up to:

• 90% for studies
• 80% for other activities and projects

Eligible support projects must follow sustainable development principles.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only)

Fonds de diversification économique de la MRC des Appalaches

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

Your business could be eligible for financial assistance if you are starting or growing a manufacturing, primary, tertiary (value-added services) or tourism business in the Des Appalaches MRC.

Support will mainly be provided in the form of a

• Repayable contribution (loan with interest, interest-free loan, equity investment);
• Loan guarantee of up to 70% of net loss;
• Non-repayable contribution.

The amount of financing can reach 25% of the total cost for investment projects, and 50% for other types of projects. A minimum investment of 10% of the total project cost is required.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only) Find contacts (in French only)

Fonds de diversification économique du Centre-du-Québec et de la Mauricie

Ministère de l'Économie et de l'Innovation

You could get financial assistance if you are located in the Centre-du-Québec and Mauricie regions, and are carrying out a business development project in the industries of manufacturing, primary, tertiary or tourism.

Support is primarily in the form of a:

• Repayable contribution (interest-bearing or interest-free loan, equity participation)
• Loan guarantee of up to 70% of net loss
• Non-refundable contribution

You may receive up to 25% of the total costs for investment projects and up to 50% for other projects. An investment of at least 10% of the total cost will be required.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only)

Fonds de diversification économique — MRC des Sources

Ministère de l'Économie et de l'Innovation

You could get financial assistance, if you are carrying out a start-up or business development project in the manufacturing, value added tertiary sector or tourism industry in the Regional County Municipality of Des Sources.

Support will be primarily in the form of a:

• Repayable contribution (interest-bearing or interest-free loan, equity participation)
• Loan guarantee of up to 70% of net loss
• Non-refundable contribution

You may receive up to 25% of the total costs for investment projects and up to 50% for other projects. An investment of at least 10% of the total cost will be required.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only)

FONDS MOSAÏQUE

Filaction

If you are a member of one of Quebec's cultural communities, you could receive a loan or loan guarantee ranging from $50,000 to $500,000 to start your own business or fund a project for your business that has been in operation for less than 5 years.

To be eligible, you must:

• Be 18 years of age or older and a member of a cultural community
• Provide a business plan for your for-profit project
• Submit your financial forecasts or statements
• Demonstrate training or experience relevant to the project

Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only) Find contacts (in French only)

Local investment fund (LIF)

Ministère de l'Économie et de l'Innovation

WARNING! 

A SIX-MONTH MORATORY HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED FOR THE REPAYMENT (CAPITAL AND INTEREST) OF THE LOANS ALREADY GRANTED BY THE INTERMEDIARY OF THE FLI. 

If you are starting or expanding a business, you could be eligible for financing in the form of various types of loans or loan guarantees.

Loans can cover eligible expenses such as:

• Capital expenditures
• Technology acquisition
• Working capital for operations

You could get an interest-free loan to help you acquire at least 25% of an existing rural business that you plan to take over.

Learn more (in French only) Find contacts (in French only)

SMBs and Large Corporations — Project Financing

Investissement Québec

You may be eligible for a loan, a loan guarantee, or funding in "quasi-equity" of $50,000 or more for business projects such as:

• Purchase of machinery and equipment
• Building modernization
• Business succession, transfer, or acquisition
• Increase in working capital
• Trademarks acquisition
• Export
• Innovation
• Commercialization

The maximum duration of funding is 25 years. Agricultural sectors, finance, real estate and retail are excluded.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more Find contacts (in French only)

Société d’Investissement Jeunesse Loan Program

Société d’Investissement Jeunesse

You could receive a loan of up to $150,000 to develop your business.

The financial aid is available to entrepreneurs aged 18 to 40 with an innovative technology business operating in Quebec.

The program has three (3) components:

• Start-ups and spin-offs;
• Acquisitions;
• Associations.

Eligibility criteria depend on the program component. However, a mentor or advisory committee is required.

Learn more (in French only) Find contacts (in French only)

ArcTern Ventures

ArcTern Ventures

If your business is a cleantech start-up that aims to create a positive environmental impact, you could get investments from this early-stage venture capital to develop innovative ideas.

Eligible sectors are:

• Clean energy;
• Energy use and storage;
• Mobility;
• Advanced manufacturing & materials;
• Resource use & efficiency;
• Food technologies (Foodtech).

Other conditions apply.

Learn more

BDC Capital

Business Development Bank of Canada

Access a wide range of specialized financing to match the various stages of growth of your business, such as:

• Transforming your ideas into a business
• Growth initiatives such as R&D, and product and market development
• Buying or transferring a business, including family successions, management and partner buyouts, and management buy-ins

Options include:

• Venture capital
• Growth and Transition Capital
• Growth equity

Terms and conditions may be tailored to meet your unique needs.

Learn more Find contacts

Development Capital

Investissement Québec

You could receive funding of $5 million or more in the form of a loan guarantee, a subordinate loan or equity participation for projects such as:

• Share buybacksBusiness acquisition
• Productivity improvement or growth (expansion, equipment upgrades)

All Quebec businesses are eligible, except for those working in the following sectors:

• Agriculture
• Finance and insurance
• Real estate
• Retail sales
• Other sectors in which the client base is made up mainly of individuals, except for the tourism sector

Other conditions apply.

Learn more

Femmessor — Réussir en affaires

Femmessor

Are you a woman who owns at least 25% of the shares of a business? If so, you could get assistance with a project relating to the start-up, expansion, consolidation, growth, or acquisition of a business, such as:

• A conventional loan ($20,000 to $150,000) or capital stock (up to $250,000)
• Customized training, workshops and seminars to perfect your skills
• Individual coaching services or mentoring
• Networking activities to develop your network of relationships

Your project must be cost-effective and economically viable.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only)

Fonds d'aide à l'économie de Lac-Mégantic

Ministère de l'Économie et de l'Innovation

You could get financial assistance for eligible projects or activities carried out within the town of Lac-Mégantic, such as:

• Assessment projects
• Market development
• Hiring strategic personnel
• Business start-ups supporting economic and tourism development
• Installation or improvement of public infrastructures

The fund will contribute up to:

• 90% for studies
• 80% for other activities and projects

Eligible support projects must follow sustainable development principles.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only)

Fonds de diversification économique de la MRC des Appalaches

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

Your business could be eligible for financial assistance if you are starting or growing a manufacturing, primary, tertiary (value-added services) or tourism business in the Des Appalaches MRC.

Support will mainly be provided in the form of a

• Repayable contribution (loan with interest, interest-free loan, equity investment);
• Loan guarantee of up to 70% of net loss;
• Non-repayable contribution.

The amount of financing can reach 25% of the total cost for investment projects, and 50% for other types of projects. A minimum investment of 10% of the total project cost is required.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only) Find contacts (in French only)

Fonds de diversification économique du Centre-du-Québec et de la Mauricie

Ministère de l'Économie et de l'Innovation

You could get financial assistance if you are located in the Centre-du-Québec and Mauricie regions, and are carrying out a business development project in the industries of manufacturing, primary, tertiary or tourism.

Support is primarily in the form of a:

• Repayable contribution (interest-bearing or interest-free loan, equity participation)
• Loan guarantee of up to 70% of net loss
• Non-refundable contribution

You may receive up to 25% of the total costs for investment projects and up to 50% for other projects. An investment of at least 10% of the total cost will be required.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only)

Fonds de diversification économique — MRC des Sources

Ministère de l'Économie et de l'Innovation

You could get financial assistance, if you are carrying out a start-up or business development project in the manufacturing, value added tertiary sector or tourism industry in the Regional County Municipality of Des Sources.

Support will be primarily in the form of a:

• Repayable contribution (interest-bearing or interest-free loan, equity participation)
• Loan guarantee of up to 70% of net loss
• Non-refundable contribution

You may receive up to 25% of the total costs for investment projects and up to 50% for other projects. An investment of at least 10% of the total cost will be required.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only)

Industrial, Clean and Energy Technology (ICE) Venture Fund

Business Development Bank of Canada

Access venture capital financing from BDC if your business is at start-up or development stages.

The fund targets the following technology sectors:

• Advanced materials
• AI and machine learning
• Autonomous systems and robotics
• Big data and analytics
• Next-gen and cloud computing
• Energy-efficient lighting
• Industrial IT
• Intelligent systems and buildings
• Internet of things
• Oil and gas
• Smart grid and energy solutions
• Water

 Other conditions apply.

Learn more

Réseau des SADC et CAE (Network of CFDCs and CBDCs)

Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions

The Réseau des SADC et CAE is a network of the Community Futures Development Corporations and the Business Development Corporations. These non-profit organizations can help you start or grow a business in your community. If you live in Quebec, the office in your area can offer:

• Help with your business plan
• Business counseling
• Training
• Loans or share capital ranging from $5,000 to $150,000, depending on the financing program

Learn more Find contacts

SMBs and Large Corporations — Project Financing

Investissement Québec

You may be eligible for a loan, a loan guarantee, or funding in "quasi-equity" of $50,000 or more for business projects such as:

• Purchase of machinery and equipment
• Building modernization
• Business succession, transfer, or acquisition
• Increase in working capital
• Trademarks acquisition
• Export
• Innovation
• Commercialization

The maximum duration of funding is 25 years. Agricultural sectors, finance, real estate and retail are excluded.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more Find contacts (in French only)

BDC business loans

Business Development Bank of Canada

Whether you are launching a business or looking to expand and grow an existing one, you could get a term loan to help you:

• Start or buy a business
• Buy, build or renovate your facilities
• Buy equipment
• Research and develop new products
• Develop new markets for your products
• Acquire information and communications technology
• Sell your business

The loan comes with flexible terms.

You may need to provide credit references and to have invested money in your business. Other conditions apply.

Learn more Find contacts

BDC Buying a business

Business Development Bank of Canada

Would you like to buy an existing business? Do you need a consultant to help you determine its strengths? You could get a loan to:

• Buy an existing business
• Acquire a competitor's or supplier's business
• Purchase the business that you already manage
• Pay for a consultant to help evaluate the business and integrate its processes

The type of loan you could get will depend on whether or not you already own land, shares in a business, or other assets.

Learn more Find contacts

BDC Capital

Business Development Bank of Canada

Access a wide range of specialized financing to match the various stages of growth of your business, such as:

• Transforming your ideas into a business
• Growth initiatives such as R&D, and product and market development
• Buying or transferring a business, including family successions, management and partner buyouts, and management buy-ins

Options include:

• Venture capital
• Growth and Transition Capital
• Growth equity

Terms and conditions may be tailored to meet your unique needs.

Learn more Find contacts

BDC New Canadian Entrepreneur Loan

Business Development Bank of Canada

Are you an immigrant entrepreneur? You could get a repayable loan of up to $50,000 to start a new business.

To be eligible, you must:

• Have immigrated to Canada less than 3 years ago
• Be a Canadian citizen or have permanent residence status
• Have a viable business plan
• Have no established or little credit history to easily access financing

The terms are flexible, with a repayment period of up to 6 years. You would not need to make any capital payments for up to 12 months.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more Form(s)

BDC Small Business Loan - for existing business

Business Development Bank of Canada

Keep your cash flow. Rather than using the money you need for day-to-day activities, consider applying for additional financing. With the BDC Small Business Loan, you could get up to $100,000 within 48 hours from the time of approval, no application fees or hassles. The entire process is completed online.

You need to have been operating your business for the past 24 months.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more Find contacts

BDC Start-up financing

Business Development Bank of Canada

Do you need a loan to start or buy a business, or to pay for property and equipment to set up your business? Financing may be available to entrepreneurs who demonstrate:

• Market and sales potential
• Competence in the management team
• Investment in their business
• Expertise in a chosen field

Other conditions apply.

Learn more

Canada Small Business Financing Program

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

This program could help you secure up to $1 million from a financial institution by sharing the risk with your lender.

The loans can be used to:

• Purchase or improve land or buildings
• Purchase leasehold improvements or improve leased property
• Purchase new or used equipment

Eligible small businesses should have annual gross revenues of no more than $10 million.

Discuss your business needs with a financial officer at any bank, caisse populaire, or credit union in Canada. Find a lender near you.

Learn more

Canadian Agricultural Loans Act program

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

If you are an agricultural producer, this program could help you get a loan from a bank, a credit union or a caisse populaire.

Eligibility:

• Existing farmers
• Beginning or start-up farmers
• Farmers taking over the family farm
• Agricultural co-operatives

Loans are limited to a maximum of:

• $500,000 for land and construction
• $350,000 for all other loan purposes

Apply directly through your lending institution.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more

Chantier de l'économie sociale Trust

Réseau d'investissement social du Québec (RISQ)

Your social economy business, non-profit organization or cooperative could get a loan with a 15-year capital repayment moratorium. Trust funding ranges from $50,000 to $1,500,000 and can cover up to 35% of eligible expenses.

You could fund:

• working capital-related costs
• launch of new products
• equipment purchases
• acquisition, construction or renovation of a building

Your business must have fewer than 200 employees.

Learn more Find contacts

Community Futures Program (Quebec)

Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions

If you live in a rural area or in a region that doesn't have many job opportunities, you may be able to get a loan to start or grow a business. The amount of funding available and the eligibility criteria depend on the region where you live.

You will need to create a business plan and describe any financing you have received or expect to receive through any other government or municipal program. The funding is a loan that must be repaid.

Learn more Find contacts

Cooperative Buyout Support Program

Investissement Québec

If you are a member partner of a cooperative, you may be eligible for funding between $100,000 and $2 million for the full or partial buyout of a business to ensure its succession.

Conditions include:

• Repayment over a maximum period of 15 years
• A fixed interest rate equivalent to Quebec Government bond yield plus 1.25%
• A sliding scale of interest for the first 5 years
• A moratorium on the principal repayment of up to 3 years for a full buyout

Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only)

Development Capital

Investissement Québec

You could receive funding of $5 million or more in the form of a loan guarantee, a subordinate loan or equity participation for projects such as:

• Share buybacksBusiness acquisition
• Productivity improvement or growth (expansion, equipment upgrades)

All Quebec businesses are eligible, except for those working in the following sectors:

• Agriculture
• Finance and insurance
• Real estate
• Retail sales
• Other sectors in which the client base is made up mainly of individuals, except for the tourism sector

Other conditions apply.

Learn more

ESSOR — Funding support for development projects

Ministère de l'Économie et de l'Innovation

Is your business involved in manufacturing, software publishing, research, environmental services, or tourism? If so, you could get a loan guarantee covering up to 70% of a net loss for investments or a loan covering up to 50% of the cost of your growth projects, such as:

• Business creation
• Business expansion or modernization

The project must help maintain or create jobs.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more Find contacts

Farm Credit Canada — loans and lending options

Farm Credit Canada

Do you need financing to start, run, grow, or transfer an agri-food or agribusiness operation? Farm Credit Canada offers a large range of loans with unique terms that can help you:

• Purchase or improve land, buildings or equipment
• Buy crop inputs or livestock
• Make environmental improvements
• Transfer your business to a new operator

Eligible producers or business owners are Canadian citizens of legal age.

Learn more Find contacts

Femmessor — Réussir en affaires

Femmessor

Are you a woman who owns at least 25% of the shares of a business? If so, you could get assistance with a project relating to the start-up, expansion, consolidation, growth, or acquisition of a business, such as:

• A conventional loan ($20,000 to $150,000) or capital stock (up to $250,000)
• Customized training, workshops and seminars to perfect your skills
• Individual coaching services or mentoring
• Networking activities to develop your network of relationships

Your project must be cost-effective and economically viable.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only)

FIJE Fund

Centre d'Aide aux Entreprises Haute-Yamaska et région

You may be eligible for up to $50,000 in funding to start or grow your business.

Other benefits:

• capital leave of 6 to 12 months;
• 5 year term;
• preferential rate of 3 %;
• personal and other guarantees.

The program is aimed at:

• Women
• Youth between 18 and 39 years of age
• Immigrants, including:
  • Permanent residents
  • Qualified workers
  • Canadian citizens since less than 5 years

You must:

• Present a business plan demonstrating the viability of the project
• Have a good credit rating
• Create at least one full-time job
• Provide a down payment of 10% of the cost of the project
• Be in the Haute-Yamaska, Brome-Missisquoi or Rouville region of Quebec

Other conditions apply.

Learn more

Fonds afro-entrepreneurs — Loans to Afro-Québécois businesspeople

Filaction

Are you a member of one of Quebec's black communities? You could receive a loan or loan guarantee of $50,000 to $500,000 to:

• Start up or expand your business
• Purchase equipment
• Meet your cash flow needs
• Increase your working capital

Your business must have been in existence for no more than 5 years or be in the process of starting up.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more Find contacts

Fonds d'aide à l'économie de Lac-Mégantic

Ministère de l'Économie et de l'Innovation

You could get financial assistance for eligible projects or activities carried out within the town of Lac-Mégantic, such as:

• Assessment projects
• Market development
• Hiring strategic personnel
• Business start-ups supporting economic and tourism development
• Installation or improvement of public infrastructures

The fund will contribute up to:

• 90% for studies
• 80% for other activities and projects

Eligible support projects must follow sustainable development principles.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only)

Fonds d'investissement en agroalimentaire Nicolet-Yamaska

Service de développement économique de la MRC de Nicolet-Yamaska

Do you own a non-conventional-sized agri-food business or small farm in the Regional County Municipality of Nicolet-Yamaska? You could receive an interest-free loan of up to $10,000 for a start-up, expansion, take-over or acquisition project in the areas of agri-food production, transformation or marketing.

The project must:

• Create at least one sustainable position
• Be based on a comprehensive business plan
• Demonstrate a viable market

You must invest a minimum of 20% of the total cost in the project.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only) Find contacts (in French only)

Fonds d'investissement pour la relève agricole

Fonds d'investissement pour la relève agricole

If you are an agricultural entrepreneur or on your way to becoming one, you could be eligible to receive assistance including:

• A down payment loan of up to $250,000 to be used, for example, to purchase equipment, buildings, agricultural land, quotas, or an entire farm
• The lease of land with option to repurchase at market value or with inflation protection of an annual maximum rate of 3.5%

To be eligible, you must:

• Be between 18 and 39 years old
• Have completed a recognized training/educational program
• Hold at least 20% of the business's shares

Other conditions apply.

Learn more Find contacts

Fonds de diversification économique de la MRC des Appalaches

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

Your business could be eligible for financial assistance if you are starting or growing a manufacturing, primary, tertiary (value-added services) or tourism business in the Des Appalaches MRC.

Support will mainly be provided in the form of a

• Repayable contribution (loan with interest, interest-free loan, equity investment);
• Loan guarantee of up to 70% of net loss;
• Non-repayable contribution.

The amount of financing can reach 25% of the total cost for investment projects, and 50% for other types of projects. A minimum investment of 10% of the total project cost is required.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only) Find contacts (in French only)

Fonds de diversification économique du Centre-du-Québec et de la Mauricie

Ministère de l'Économie et de l'Innovation

You could get financial assistance if you are located in the Centre-du-Québec and Mauricie regions, and are carrying out a business development project in the industries of manufacturing, primary, tertiary or tourism.

Support is primarily in the form of a:

• Repayable contribution (interest-bearing or interest-free loan, equity participation)
• Loan guarantee of up to 70% of net loss
• Non-refundable contribution

You may receive up to 25% of the total costs for investment projects and up to 50% for other projects. An investment of at least 10% of the total cost will be required.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only)

Fonds de diversification économique — MRC des Sources

Ministère de l'Économie et de l'Innovation

You could get financial assistance, if you are carrying out a start-up or business development project in the manufacturing, value added tertiary sector or tourism industry in the Regional County Municipality of Des Sources.

Support will be primarily in the form of a:

• Repayable contribution (interest-bearing or interest-free loan, equity participation)
• Loan guarantee of up to 70% of net loss
• Non-refundable contribution

You may receive up to 25% of the total costs for investment projects and up to 50% for other projects. An investment of at least 10% of the total cost will be required.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only)

FONDS MOSAÏQUE

Filaction

If you are a member of one of Quebec's cultural communities, you could receive a loan or loan guarantee ranging from $50,000 to $500,000 to start your own business or fund a project for your business that has been in operation for less than 5 years.

To be eligible, you must:

• Be 18 years of age or older and a member of a cultural community
• Provide a business plan for your for-profit project
• Submit your financial forecasts or statements
• Demonstrate training or experience relevant to the project

Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only) Find contacts (in French only)

Fonds Tourisme PME

Tourisme Québec

You could receive up to $250,000 in funding for your for-profit or social economy (not-for-profit or cooperative) business in the tourism sector.

The loan could be used to:

• Finance facilities and equipment
• Increase working capital

You must meet the following criteria:

• Not be in a recovery process
• Have a down payment of between 15% and 25% of the total cost of the project
• Have relevant experience in the field
• Demonstrate the potential for long-term sustainability of the project

Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only)

Futurpreneur Canada Newcomer Program

Futurpreneur Canada

Are you a newcomer to Canada between the ages of 18 and 39, with a limited credit history? If so, you could apply for a $12,500 repayable loan to start a business.

This amount could be matched with a repayable loan from the BDC for a potential total of $12,500.

To qualify, you must:

• Be a citizen or a permanent resident of Canada
• Have lived in Canada for no longer than 5 years
• Agree to work with a mentor

Other conditions apply.

Learn more Find contacts

Futurpreneur Canada Start-Up Program

Futurpreneur Canada

If you are between the ages of 18 and 39, you could get a loan of $20,000 to start or buy a business.

To be eligible, you will need to:

• Create a business plan for a business that will employ you full time
• Work with a mentor for two years

You cannot use the funds to pay existing debts. You need to repay the loan and pay administrative fees.

If you qualify, you can also apply for an extra $40,000 through the Futurpreneur Canada-BDC Start-Up Program.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more Find contacts

Jeunes entreprises collectives

PME MTL

If you operate a cooperative, you could receive funding of $23,000 or more, including a:

• $3,000 grant from the Caisse d'économie solidaire Desjardins
• $10,000 subsidy as part of the Fonds de développement de l'économie sociale
• $10,000 loan from PME MTL, the Caisse d'économie solidaire Desjardins or another partner

You must:

• Operate a new coperative on the Island of Montreal
• Be a member, or agree to become a member, of the Caisse d'économie solidaire
• Submit a viable business plan

Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only)

Le Fonds YUL / 375 idées

Jeune Chambre de commerce de Montréal (JCCM)

Are you a Montreal entrepreneur aged 18 to 40? If so, you may receive a $7,500 loan at a rate of 2% if you have a project at the pre-start-up or start-up stage, or that has been growing for less than two years.

You must:

• Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
• Have your head office in Montreal
• Have met 100% of your crowdfunding objective of at least $7,500 on Quebec's La Ruche platform since January 1, 2017
• Demonstrate your project's viability and profit potential

Other conditions apply.

Learn more Find contacts Form(s) (in French only)

Local investment fund (LIF)

Ministère de l'Économie et de l'Innovation

WARNING! 

A SIX-MONTH MORATORY HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED FOR THE REPAYMENT (CAPITAL AND INTEREST) OF THE LOANS ALREADY GRANTED BY THE INTERMEDIARY OF THE FLI. 

If you are starting or expanding a business, you could be eligible for financing in the form of various types of loans or loan guarantees.

Loans can cover eligible expenses such as:

• Capital expenditures
• Technology acquisition
• Working capital for operations

You could get an interest-free loan to help you acquire at least 25% of an existing rural business that you plan to take over.

Learn more (in French only) Find contacts (in French only)

MicroEntreprendre

MicroEntreprendre

Are you unable to obtain traditional financing to start your business?

You could obtain a loan of $500 to $20,000 from this network, which will also give you technical assistance to structure a viable project.

Learn more (in French only) Find contacts (in French only)

PME MTL Fund

PME MTL

You could receive up to $300,000 to cover expenses related to the start-up or development of your business establishment in Montreal, including:

• Working capital
• Capital assets
• Marketing costs
• Purchase of equipment
• Acquisition of a business (succession or transfer)
• Costs for patents or the protection of intellectual property
• Prototyping

You must:

• Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
• Submit a business plan or a summary of projected financial statements
• Provide an investment of at least 20% of the total project cost

Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only)

Prince's Operation Entrepreneur

Prince's Charities Canada

Are you a transitioning Canadian Armed Forces member, veteran, reservist, or a family member looking to establish yourself as an entrepreneur? Or do you already have a business?

This national bilingual program offers:

•     One-day workshops and seven-day business boot camps
•     Tools and resources to guide business planning and growth
•     Networking opportunities and introductions to local community support resources
•     Access to free corporate law legal advice and information from a national law firm
•     Short-term one-on-one business coaching for program participants
•     The Canadian Veteran Business Directory, a free online listing of military-owned businesses in Canada

Learn more Find contacts

Programme Créavenir

Desjardins Group

If you’re between 18 and 35, you can receive up to $15,000 in loans and up to $5,000 in grants for your business projects. The support service is provided in partnership with a support organization in your area.

To qualify, you need to:

• Be or become a member of a participating Desjardins caisse;
• Live and start a business in an area served by a participating caisse;
• Not have access to conventional financing;
• Present a viable plan to start a business or consolidate an existing one that is less than three years old.

The maximum amount granted might not be the same in some regions. Please contact your local Desjardins caisse for details.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more

ProMontreal entrepreneurs (PME) Fund

If your start-up business has been in operation in Montreal for less than two years, you could get a loan of up to $50,000, offered at a business prime rate and repayable over 5 years.

To be eligible, you should:

• be between the ages of 18 and 40 and a member of the Jewish community;
• be a registered member of ProMontreal Entrepreneurs;
• fill in the application form;
• submit a detailed business plan;
• provide two letters of reference and a recent credit report.

Other conditions apply.

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Relief measures for Indigenous businesses

Government of Canada

The Government of Canada, through Aboriginal Financial Institutions, will provide financing in the form of short-term, interest-free and non-repayable contributions to First Nations, Inuit and Métis businesses.

Assistance of up to $40,000 will be available as:

• an interest-free loan of up to $30,000;
• a non-repayable contribution of up to $10,000.

For more information, contact your Aboriginal Financial Institution.

Some conditions apply.

Learn more

Réseau des SADC et CAE (Network of CFDCs and CBDCs)

Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions

The Réseau des SADC et CAE is a network of the Community Futures Development Corporations and the Business Development Corporations. These non-profit organizations can help you start or grow a business in your community. If you live in Quebec, the office in your area can offer:

• Help with your business plan
• Business counseling
• Training
• Loans or share capital ranging from $5,000 to $150,000, depending on the financing program

Learn more Find contacts

SMBs and Large Corporations — Project Financing

Investissement Québec

You may be eligible for a loan, a loan guarantee, or funding in "quasi-equity" of $50,000 or more for business projects such as:

• Purchase of machinery and equipment
• Building modernization
• Business succession, transfer, or acquisition
• Increase in working capital
• Trademarks acquisition
• Export
• Innovation
• Commercialization

The maximum duration of funding is 25 years. Agricultural sectors, finance, real estate and retail are excluded.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more Find contacts (in French only)

Société d’Investissement Jeunesse Loan Program

Société d’Investissement Jeunesse

You could receive a loan of up to $150,000 to develop your business.

The financial aid is available to entrepreneurs aged 18 to 40 with an innovative technology business operating in Quebec.

The program has three (3) components:

• Start-ups and spin-offs;
• Acquisitions;
• Associations.

Eligibility criteria depend on the program component. However, a mentor or advisory committee is required.

Learn more (in French only) Find contacts (in French only)

BDC Indigenous Entrepreneur Loan

Business Development Bank of Canada

As an Indigenous entrepreneur, you could get up to $150,000 to start a business, or up to $250,000 to grow your existing business.

Operations can be on or off reserve.

You can use the loan to:

• Acquire fixed assets
• Finance franchise fees
• Cover start-up costs
• Start exporting
• Replenish working capital to support your company's growth

Learn more Find contacts

Aboriginal Business and Entrepreneurship Development

Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada

If you are Aboriginal or have a majority-owned Aboriginal business, you can apply for up to $99,999 to help you:

• Start or buy a business
• Develop a business plan
• Grow your existing business
• Market your product or service
• Develop new products or processes
• Get business advice

You do not need to pay the money back. Conditions apply.

Before applying, contact a business development officer in your region to discuss your project.

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Aboriginal Business Financing Program

Native Commercial Credit Corporation

If you are a member of the First Nations in Quebec, you could receive up to $99,999 to cover eligible expenses, including:

• Startup or expansion of a business
• Marketing activities
• Management expertise
• Development of a business plan

Eligibility criteria:

• Have an equity of minimum 10% of the cost of the project
• Have financial resources of your own and a good credit rating
• Present a viable business project
• Have experience and training in the field of activities
• Mandatory full-time involvement in the business

Other conditions apply.

Learn more

Aboriginal Initiatives Fund III

Secrétariat aux affaires autochtones

If you run an eligible Aboriginal organization, you can receive funding for your project to:

• Start-up, expand or develop a business
• Conduct the necessary studies to finalize a project
• Help the Nation or community better structure its economic development
• Develop the Aboriginal workforce
• Enhance the social economy

The sponsor must demonstrate the financial needs to be met and provide a business plan supporting the project's validity and relevance.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more Find contacts

ESSOR — Funding support for development projects

Ministère de l'Économie et de l'Innovation

Is your business involved in manufacturing, software publishing, research, environmental services, or tourism? If so, you could get a loan guarantee covering up to 70% of a net loss for investments or a loan covering up to 50% of the cost of your growth projects, such as:

• Business creation
• Business expansion or modernization

The project must help maintain or create jobs.

Other conditions apply.

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Financial support for aspiring farmers

La Financière agricole

If you are planning to take over an existing farm or start a new agriculture business, you could receive a grant of up to $50,000.

You could invest in activities that improve the productivity of your business, for example:

• Land improvement
• Equipment purchase

You must:

• Be 18 to 40 years old
• Have received recognized training
• Hold at least 20% of the business' shares
• Have at least one year of relevant experience in agriculture

Other conditions apply.

Learn more Find contacts Form(s)

Fonds d'aide à l'économie de Lac-Mégantic

Ministère de l'Économie et de l'Innovation

You could get financial assistance for eligible projects or activities carried out within the town of Lac-Mégantic, such as:

• Assessment projects
• Market development
• Hiring strategic personnel
• Business start-ups supporting economic and tourism development
• Installation or improvement of public infrastructures

The fund will contribute up to:

• 90% for studies
• 80% for other activities and projects

Eligible support projects must follow sustainable development principles.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only)

Fonds de développement des entreprises d'économie sociale

Centres locaux de développement (CLD) and RCM - Economic Development

You could receive a grant to help you finance plans to start, consolidate or expand your social economy business.

Your company must:

• be financially viable
• produce goods or offer services
• create sustainable jobs

Eligible expenses are:

• technology acquisition or patenting
• capital expenditures (land, building, equipment)
• working capital needs 

Please contact us for the organization in your region that oversees this fund.

Find contacts

Fonds de développement économique de la région de la Capitale-Nationale

Secrétariat à la Capitale-Nationale

You could receive a non-repayable contribution to support your projects in the Capitale-Nationale region, such as:

• The marketing of a product
• Improvements to services and infrastructure
• Conferences and cultural or sporting events
• Opportunity and feasibility studies

The structuring effect of the project is evaluated according to its:

• Economic benefits
• Extra-regional outreach
• Contribution to economic development

The retail and wholesale trades and accommodation and food services sectors are not eligible.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only)

Fonds de diversification économique de la MRC des Appalaches

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

Your business could be eligible for financial assistance if you are starting or growing a manufacturing, primary, tertiary (value-added services) or tourism business in the Des Appalaches MRC.

Support will mainly be provided in the form of a

• Repayable contribution (loan with interest, interest-free loan, equity investment);
• Loan guarantee of up to 70% of net loss;
• Non-repayable contribution.

The amount of financing can reach 25% of the total cost for investment projects, and 50% for other types of projects. A minimum investment of 10% of the total project cost is required.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only) Find contacts (in French only)

Fonds de diversification économique du Centre-du-Québec et de la Mauricie

Ministère de l'Économie et de l'Innovation

You could get financial assistance if you are located in the Centre-du-Québec and Mauricie regions, and are carrying out a business development project in the industries of manufacturing, primary, tertiary or tourism.

Support is primarily in the form of a:

• Repayable contribution (interest-bearing or interest-free loan, equity participation)
• Loan guarantee of up to 70% of net loss
• Non-refundable contribution

You may receive up to 25% of the total costs for investment projects and up to 50% for other projects. An investment of at least 10% of the total cost will be required.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only)

Fonds de diversification économique — MRC des Sources

Ministère de l'Économie et de l'Innovation

You could get financial assistance, if you are carrying out a start-up or business development project in the manufacturing, value added tertiary sector or tourism industry in the Regional County Municipality of Des Sources.

Support will be primarily in the form of a:

• Repayable contribution (interest-bearing or interest-free loan, equity participation)
• Loan guarantee of up to 70% of net loss
• Non-refundable contribution

You may receive up to 25% of the total costs for investment projects and up to 50% for other projects. An investment of at least 10% of the total cost will be required.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only)

Fonds Jeunes Entreprises

PME MTL

You could receive a non-repayable financial contribution of up to $15,000 to fund business projects such as:

• Equipment purchase
• Leasehold improvements
• Marketing expenses
• Working capital

You must:

• Have your business and head office in Montreal
• Operate a business that is less than 5 years old
• Submit a business plan that demonstrates the viability of your project
• Work full-time in the business

This grant must be matched with a loan from the MTL SME Fund.

Other conditions apply.

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Growth Investment Program

La Financière agricole

Farm business owners can receive an investment grant for an agricultural project, regardless of production sector or point in the business life cycle.

The financial assistance is conditional on a loan guarantee from La Financière agricole.

The Growth Investment Program includes four components:

• Component 1: Growth support;
• Component 2: Growth support plus;
• Component 3: Agri-Environmental Enhancement of Cultivated Land;
• Component 4: Young Entrepreneurs.

This program replaces the Support for Diversification and Regional Development Program and the Support for Québec Farm Business Development Program.

Some conditions apply.

Learn more Find contacts Form(s)

Jeunes entreprises collectives

PME MTL

If you operate a cooperative, you could receive funding of $23,000 or more, including a:

• $3,000 grant from the Caisse d'économie solidaire Desjardins
• $10,000 subsidy as part of the Fonds de développement de l'économie sociale
• $10,000 loan from PME MTL, the Caisse d'économie solidaire Desjardins or another partner

You must:

• Operate a new coperative on the Island of Montreal
• Be a member, or agree to become a member, of the Caisse d'économie solidaire
• Submit a viable business plan

Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only)

Jeunes Promoteurs

Centres locaux de développement (CLD) and RCM - Economic Development

If you are between 18 and 35 years of age, you could get technical and financial assistance to build your first business.

The program has three parts:

• Part 1 — Realizing plans for a business
• Part 2 — Building your first or second business
• Part 3 — Entrepreneurial training
• Part 4 — Relief/Succession

You need to:

• have a business plan that demonstrates the viability of the project
• have relevant experience or training
• make a financial investment
• commit to working full time for the company 

Loan amount varies.

Please contact us for the organization in your region that oversees this fund.

Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities

Employment and Social Development Canada

If you are a person with a disability who wants to start a business, or an employer who would like to hire someone with a disability, you could qualify for funds.

Self-employment: You could receive financial assistance for training that can help you start a business if you:

• Have a permanent physical or mental disability
• Are not eligible for employment insurance benefits

Employers: You could get a wage subsidy to hire someone with a disability. The funding can cover a portion of the salary. Projects must normally involve a minimum of 8 participants.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more

Programme Créavenir

Desjardins Group

If you’re between 18 and 35, you can receive up to $15,000 in loans and up to $5,000 in grants for your business projects. The support service is provided in partnership with a support organization in your area.

To qualify, you need to:

• Be or become a member of a participating Desjardins caisse;
• Live and start a business in an area served by a participating caisse;
• Not have access to conventional financing;
• Present a viable plan to start a business or consolidate an existing one that is less than three years old.

The maximum amount granted might not be the same in some regions. Please contact your local Desjardins caisse for details.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more

Programme de soutien à la reprise collective

Ministère de l'Économie et de l'Innovation

Do you want to sell your business? Do you own a co-operative and want to buy a business? If so, you may receive financial assistance for up to 70% of eligible expenses.

The program includes 2 streams.

Stream 1 — Feasibility study

• Assess the investment potential of a group of workers
• Assess the organizational culture

Stream 2 — Implementation support

• Assess the value of the business and purchase price
• Conduct due diligence
• Complete a shareholder agreement or purchase contract

Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only)

Quebec Economic Development Program

Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions

Find programs and services to help you  grow your business.

Find resources that can help you:

• Improve productivity
• Innovate,  adopt or transfer technologies
• Market or export your goods or services

Learn more Find contacts

Relief measures for Indigenous businesses

Government of Canada

The Government of Canada, through Aboriginal Financial Institutions, will provide financing in the form of short-term, interest-free and non-repayable contributions to First Nations, Inuit and Métis businesses.

Assistance of up to $40,000 will be available as:

• an interest-free loan of up to $30,000;
• a non-repayable contribution of up to $10,000.

For more information, contact your Aboriginal Financial Institution.

Some conditions apply.

Learn more

Soutien à l'achat d'une première entreprise de pêche commerciale

Ministère de l'Agriculture, des Pêcheries et de l'Alimentation du Québec

Are you a young fisher looking to buy your first commercial fishing business? If so, you could receive funding up to a maximum of $25,000. Additional funding of up to $25,000 may be provided if you are a fisher less than 45 years of age.

You must:

• Live in Quebec
• Fish commercially
• Be registered with the Bureau d'accréditation des pêcheurs et des aides-pêcheurs

Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only) Find contacts (in French only)

Support for self-employment

Emploi Québec

You could get financial assistance and expert advice to start your own business or create your own job.

Eligible projects must:

• Be viable
• Meet a local need
• Not create unfair competition

You may be eligible for assistance if one of the following situations apply:

• You are receiving employment insurance benefits
• You are receiving social assistance
• You are unemployed and not receiving government income support
• You are working, but your job is at risk

Other conditions apply.

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Young volunteers

Emploi Québec

If you are between 16 and 29 years old, you can leverage the expertise offered by local resources. Benefit from support monitoring and validation of your entrepreneurial skills, and reimbursement of costs associated with exploring a business project.

To qualify you must:

• Have difficulty obtaining employment
• Devote at least 20 hours per week to your project
• Work no more than 20 hours per week at a job
• Not be a full time student

Other conditions apply.

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