1. Loan guarantees
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
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
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. THIS MORATORY MAY BE EXTENDED BY THREE MONTHS FROM OCTOBRE 1ST, 2020.
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)
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 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 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)
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.
Other conditions apply.
Learn more
(in French only)
Find contacts
(in French only)
2. Equity investments
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)
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)
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
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
National Bank SME Growth Fund
National Bank
National Bank offers an investment from $500,000 to $15 million to eligible Quebec SMEs for projects for growth (digital transformation, expansion, innovation, etc.), transfer or purchase (merger or acquisition).
Eligibility criteria:
- Assets of under $200 million or net assets of under $100 million
- Competent managers with a business plan and structured project
- Growth prospects
- Closely held company and suitable capital structure
- Profitable for two of the last three years or sustained, significant sales growth during that period
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
3. Loans and cash advances
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 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
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
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
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)
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
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
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. THIS MORATORY MAY BE EXTENDED BY THREE MONTHS FROM OCTOBRE 1ST, 2020.
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)
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
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.
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 Indigenous Entrepreneur Loan
Business Development Bank of Canada
As an Indigenous entrepreneur, you could get up to $350,000 to start a business or 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
Conditions apply.
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
Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP)
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
The PECN is a partnership between the federal government, Black-led businesses, and financial institutions.
This program has three components:
Some conditions apply.
Learn more
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
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 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)
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)
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)
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)
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
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
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.
Other conditions apply.
Learn more
(in French only)
Find contacts
(in French only)
4. Grants, contributions and financial assistance
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.
Learn more
Find contacts
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.
Learn more
Find contacts
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
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
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.
Learn more
(in French only)
Find contacts
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.
Learn more
Find contacts
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 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.
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 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)
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:
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)
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)
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)
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.
Learn more
(in French only)
Find contacts
5. Other resources
You can also consult our other directories of financing programs.
You could also avail yourself of non-financial resources to succeed in your business venture.