Equity Investment Programs in Canada: Funding Growth Without Taking on Debt
Looking to raise capital for a high-growth business in Canada? This article explains equity investment programs in Canada, how they work, the types of investors you may encounter. We also list current government-supported or public-private equity programs.
Whether you’re a startup founder or scaling a fast-growing company, this guide will help you understand if equity financing is the right path for your business.
✅ What Is Equity Investment?
Equity investment is a type of business financing where an investor provides capital in exchange for ownership shares in your company. Unlike loans, equity investment does not require repayment — instead, the investor becomes a part-owner and earns a return if your business grows in value.
This form of financing is common among startups and high-growth businesses because it:
- Offers significant capital without adding debt
- Brings in investors who often provide strategic guidance and connections
- Requires you to give up a percentage of ownership and, in some cases, a degree of control
Equity investment is long-term and risk-sharing — both you and the investor are betting on the business’s success.
✅ Common Types of Equity Investors in Canada
Canada has a diverse equity funding ecosystem. The main types of investors you’ll encounter through programs or networks include:
◾ Angel Investors
Wealthy individuals who invest personal capital into early-stage startups — often the first source of external equity funding. Many participate through angel networks.
◾ Venture Capital (VC) Firms
Professional investment firms that fund startups and scale-ups with high-growth potential, particularly in tech, life sciences, and clean energy. They typically seek larger returns and more ownership than angels.
◾ Public-Private Investment Funds
These are government-supported venture funds or co-investment programs that match private sector investments. Examples include BDC Capital and provincial innovation funds.
◾ Accelerators and Incubators (with Investment)
Startup programs that offer funding, mentorship, and resources in exchange for a small equity stake — often used to prepare companies for further VC investment.
◾ Crown Corporations & Regional Funds
Organizations like BDC Capital and Investissement Québec provide equity investments alongside advisory services. Some provinces and territories also support regional innovation funds or Indigenous investment entities.
✅ What Equity Investment Programs Typically Offer
Equity investment programs don’t just provide capital — they often include added support to accelerate business growth. These benefits can include:
- Initial funding, ranging from $25,000 to several million depending on stage and sector
- Ongoing mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs or investors
- Access to investor and industry networks for follow-on funding, partnerships, or customers
- Credibility and visibility, which can help attract further investment or strategic partners
- Follow-on rounds, where investors reinvest in future funding stages
Many programs, especially those with public backing, aim to increase access for underrepresented entrepreneurs (e.g. women, Indigenous, Black, or newcomer founders).
✅ Who Is Equity Investment For?
Equity investment is not the right fit for every business. It’s best suited for:
- Startups and scale-ups with high growth potential
- Businesses in innovation-driven sectors, such as software, biotech, clean tech, or advanced manufacturing
- Companies with a scalable business model (i.e. revenue increases faster than costs)
- Founders willing to share ownership and decision-making with external investors
- Teams that can demonstrate traction — revenue, user growth, intellectual property, or market validation
Equity funding is not ideal for lifestyle businesses, small local operations, or companies not planning for rapid growth or eventual exit.
✅ How to Access Equity Investment Programs in Canada
Raising equity investment is both a process and a relationship-building exercise. Here’s how to get started:
1. Build a strong business case
Prepare a clear, compelling pitch deck with your business model, target market, competitive edge, financial projections, and team strengths.
2. Understand your valuation
You’ll need to determine how much your business is worth and how much equity you’re willing to offer in exchange for funding.
3. Research and apply to programs
Look for:
- Government-backed venture funds
- Accelerators or incubators that offer investment
- Angel investor networks active in your province or sector
- Regional or sector-specific co-investment initiatives
4. Network and seek referrals
Warm introductions carry more weight than cold outreach. Attend pitch events, talk to past program participants, and engage with innovation hubs.
5. Negotiate and complete due diligence
Investors will review your business in depth before committing. Be prepared to share detailed financials, legal documents, and customer data. Negotiate terms carefully — ownership percentage, voting rights, exit conditions, etc.
✅ Alternatives or Complements to Equity Investment
Equity investment is one of several funding options — and it can often be combined with other forms of support:
◾ Grants
Non-dilutive funding that does not require repayment or ownership trade-off. Ideal for R&D, hiring, or early product development.
◾ Loans
Government-backed loans offer capital without giving up equity — useful for operational costs or asset purchases.
◾ Tax Credits
Programs like SR&ED or provincial innovation credits reduce costs and can free up capital without raising funds.
◾ Convertible Notes or SAFEs
Hybrid funding models where money is invested now, with conversion into equity at a later stage — often used before a formal valuation is set.
✅ Government Equity Investment Programs in Canada: Current Federal & Provincial Programs
In the following sections you’ll find equity investment programs that are currently offered by the Canadian federal government, as well as various provincial governments:
Federal Equity Investment Programs Currently Available:
No fixed amount
Investment
Description:
Venture Capital Catalyst Initiative is helping to increase the availability of capital for Canada’s high-potential innovative firms, including those in the life sciences sector and for entrepreneurs from underrepresented groups, such as women and racialized communities. Please note that VCCI does not make direct investments into companies. Under Budget 2021, VCCI is investing up to $450 million through three streams:
1. Funds-of-funds stream investing up to $350 million in funds-of-funds;
2. Life sciences stream investing up to $50 million in VC funds primarily focused on investing in high-growth potential technology companies Canada’s life sciences sector; and,
3. Inclusive growth stream investing up to $50 million in VC funds to support increased access to VC for underrepresented groups, such as women and racialized communities.
$240,000.00
Investment
Description:
The Fund is a catalyst for Canadian artists to take their projects to a new level. Our investments provide the additional time and resources that bold, ambitious projects need to be successful on the national and international stage.
$100,000,000.00
Loan, Investment
Description:
Through the IEI, our investment team looks to lend to Indigenous communities to provide them with access to capital to purchase equity stakes in infrastructure projects in which the CIB is also investing. Economic returns from these projects can be reinvested in the community, narrowing the economic and infrastructure gap among Indigenous communities.
no fixed amount
Loan, Loan Guarantee, Investment
Description:
FinDev Canada offers financing and equity investments to Canadian companies operating in developing countries that demonstrate sustainable social and economic benefits for local communities, with a focus on job creation, women’s economic empowerment and climate change mitigation.
No fixed amount
Investment
Description:
FCC Capital is expanding to provide a wider range of capital solutions and value creation for the food and agriculture sector, fostering the development of innovative products and scaling impactful businesses. We support ideas and advancements that strengthen the industry, and we want to hear from and work with the entrepreneurs, investors, farmers and agribusinesses who are invested in making these advancements a reality.
No fixed amount
Investment
Description:
EDC Investments is an evergreen investment program with more than $3 billion in capital to help Canadian businesses reach their potential.
no fixed amount
Investment
Description:
Export Development Canada (EDC) can match investments of $10 million or more with our expedited co-investment program.
With the goal of accelerating the growth of Canadian businesses, EDC leverages the due diligence of your venture capital or private equity investor(s) to help you access more capital faster, and “matches” new investments on their terms and conditions
no fixed amount
Investment
Description:
Export Development Canada (EDC) has committed $200 million to invest in companies founded or led by diverse Canadians
For Canadian exporting businesses owned and led by people identifying as women, Indigenous, Black and other dimensions of diversity, one of the main barriers to growth is lack of equitable access to capital. This program helps address that challenge and create more opportunities for growth.
No fixed amount
Investment
Description:
The CIB’s Critical Minerals investments will facilitate the construction of enabling and supporting infrastructure like access roads, clean power generation and transmission and wastewater management facilities in remote areas of Canada. Investments can unlock critical mineral development and support economic development while addressing risks which impact the ability of mining companies to raise sufficient pre-mine construction financing.
no fixed amount
Loan, Loan Guarantee, Investment
Description:
The Community Futures program helps to create jobs in rural areas. This is done with the help of more than 40 Community Business Development Corporations (CBDCs) throughout Atlantic Canada.
No fixed amount
Loan, Investment
Description:
The Charging and Hydrogen Refuelling Infrastructure Initiative (CHRI) aims to reduce transportation sector greenhouse gas emissions by accelerating the private sector’s rollout of large-scale ZEV chargers and hydrogen refuelling stations, helping to spur the market for private investment.
No fixed amount
Grant, Investment
Description:
The Dairy Innovation and Investment Fund (DIIF) aims to help dairy processors in making investments to increase competitiveness over the long term and adapt to the new market realities.
No fixed amount
Investment
Description:
We are one of the world’s largest venture capital funds dedicated to investing in women-led technology companies and helping build a robust ecosystem to support women in tech today and in the future.
We are unique in that we have a dual mandate: to deliver a return on investment and make a lasting impact on the Canadian tech ecosystem
No fixed amount
Investment
Description:
The Intellectual Property-Backed Financing solution from BDC Capital recognizes the strength and value of your intellectual property (IP) portfolio and helps you develop, scale and expand your business.
No fixed amount
Investment
Description:
We operate on the frontier of innovation where tomorrow’s technologies are born. With deep expertise and agility, we manage $300 million in capital — investing in Canada’s most innovative technology companies, firms that are redefining how the world works by bringing digital transformation to a wide range of industries. We’re often the first institutional investor in, because we recognize opportunity when we see it.
No fixed amount
Investment
Description:
Industrial Innovation Venture Fund brings direct investment and strategic support to visionary management teams with the desire, ambition and courage to become Canada’s next generation of global leaders.
No fixed amount
Investment
Description:
The $500 million Growth Venture envelope continues and expands on the mandate of the previous Funds I and II. It targets late-stage, innovation-based businesses that are at an inflection point and show strong potential for meaningful scale. Our team and network give entrepreneurs the structure and strategies to build markets worldwide.
$45,000,000
Investment
Description:
We invest equity capital in Canadian mid-market growth businesses as a minority investor. In partnership with management teams and stakeholders, we work to accelerate growth and to create the next generation of national and global champions.
Since inception in 2017, we have partnered with dozens of growth-oriented Canadian enterprises and today manage several capital pools totaling approximately $900 million. We are currently investing from Growth Equity Partners Fund III, a $300 million capital pool launched in 2024.
$35,000,000
Investment
Description:
Working with our team of expert, experienced professionals who know your local market, your company can raise capital for projects such as R&D, and product and market development, or to invest in intangible assets such as intellectual property and goodwill.
$35,000,000
Investment
Description:
Our team of experienced professionals will work with you to find the optimal financing structure for raising capital to buy a competitor’s or supplier’s business, for example.
No fixed amount
Investment
Description:
You’re looking to expand into new markets, acquire a company, attract creative talent or undergo a digital transformation, but accessing capital or sound advice is not always easy. That’s why we offer solutions, tools, training and partnerships to help you make your distinctive mark and succeed in Canada’s creative and cultural industries.
$35,000,000
Investment
Description:
Our team of experienced professionals will work with you to find the optimal financing structure for raising capital to buy a competitor’s or supplier’s business, for example.
No fixed amount
Investment
Description:
Our $200 million fund is actively looking for startups with the potential to have a transformative impact on global industries. Such companies working with BDC Capital enjoy support throughout their journey, including by facilitating market access and playing a role in every stage of their growth.
Alberta Equity Investment Programs Currently Available:
No specific amount was identified.
Grant, Investment
Description:
Created in 2018, The Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund works to grow and diversify our economy, create jobs and training opportunities, and spurs a wide range of private, non-profit and public sector investments in the city.
$250,000.00
Investment
Description:
The Accelerate Fund is an early stage, angel co-investment fund available to Alberta technology companies, allowing them to secure additional financing for their current angel round, and tap into a broader network of industry support. It typically invests $250,000 into their first financing round with a new company. We require matching dollars from angel or private co-investors, which often results in a multiplier effect of two to three times the amount of our investment.
B.C. Equity Investment Programs Currently Available:
$10,000,000.00
Investment
Description:
At InBC, we believe in the power of collective impact. Our investment strategy extends beyond individual companies to include venture funds that share our commitment to driving positive environmental and social change while achieving sustainable financial returns. Through this strategy, InBC can support companies at different stages of growth to widen our impact.
$500,000.00
Investment
Description:
The Farmed Animal Disease Program (FAD) provides funding to the BC livestock and poultry industry to invest in planning, preparedness, prevention, and mitigation for federal or provincial regulated diseases or significant emerging farmed animal diseases.
The Farmed Animal Disease Program (FAD) is a three-year, up to $5M program funded by the Government of BC through the Ministry of Agriculture and Food (AF) and delivered by IAF.
$50,000.00
Investment
Description:
The Extreme Weather Preparedness for Agriculture Program is designed to increase BC’s food security through environmental conservation and improved resiliency for select extreme weather events.
The Extreme Weather Preparedness for Agriculture Program invites commercial Agriculture and Aquaculture primary producers in BC to apply for cost-share funding to increase the resiliency of their existing farming infrastructure for extreme weather events.
The Extreme Weather Preparedness for Agriculture (EWP) Program is an investment program funded by federal, provincial, and territorial governments through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), with $2 million available in 2024/25 to help producers increase on-farm resiliency for select extreme weather events.
$10,000
Investment
Description:
AgriInvest is one of the business risk management programs the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP).
AgriInvest is a self-managed producer-government savings account designed to help you manage small income declines and make investments to manage risk and improve market income.
Manitoba Equity Investment Programs Currently Available:
$500,000.00
Investment
Description:
The Television and Web-Based Production Fund program is designed to support the production of television and web-based projects that have an acceptable market trigger for broadcast or distribution and sufficient third party financing to complete the project. The fund provides financial support in the form of equity investments for producers to bring their projects to the screen.
$400,000.00
Investment
Description:
The Manitoba Film & Music Feature Film Production Fund is designed to support the production of feature film projects that have an acceptable market trigger for distribution and sufficient third party financing to complete the project. This program assists in the production financing of fully developed feature film projects through equity investments.
Newfoundland & Labrador Equity Investment Programs Currently Available:
no fixed amount
Investment, Loan
Description:
The Investment Attraction Fund provides customized financial assistance to inward investors in support of establishing a business in the province or expanding a business as a result of foreign direct investment (FDI). The Fund consists of an allocation for loans and advances towards strategic investments in infrastructure support costs, human resource costs or other costs, as determined by the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology.
No fixed amount
Investment
Description:
The PictureNL Equity Investment Program is available for eligible screen industry companies which are majority owned by a resident of Newfoundland and Labrador. The program may provide up to 20% towards a production’s financial structure but normally the project’s local spend is a key criterion, among other factors, in determining an investment amount.
no fixed amount
Investment, Loan
Description:
The Business Investment Program provides term loans and equity investments to Newfoundland and Labrador SMEs in strategic growth sectors as identified by Industry, Energy and Technology (IET). The fund is also available to businesses which have export potential and require assistance to enter or expand in external markets.
Funds are provided to complement funding from conventional sources, where a need has been demonstrated, and are also intended to increase the capital base of businesses allowing them to leverage new private-sector investments.
$250,000.00
Investment
Description:
The objective of the Aquaculture Capital Equity Program is to partner with companies to increase production from both hatcheries and marine sites in Newfoundland and Labrador. The program will provide a minimum investment to projects of $250,000 for finfish operations and $100,000 for shellfish to match a private sector cash investment.
Nova Scotia Equity Investment Programs Currently Available:
no fixed amount
Investment
Description:
The Nova Scotia First Fund provides financing for emerging venture-grade technology companies with high growth potential and attractive risk-return prospects. Target industries include information technology, life sciences, clean technology and ocean technology.
$1,000,000
Investment
Description:
HCi3 invests in low-carbon solutions that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, support a just transition and positively impact communities. We support scalable and innovative approaches located in Halifax/Kjipuktuk or that directly benefit this region.
no fixed amount
Investment
Description:
Invest Nova Scotia partners with venture capital funds that invest in innovative, high-growth Nova Scotia start-ups, ensuring companies have access to the funding they need to scale and thrive in Nova Scotia.
No funding involved
Investment
Description:
There has never been a more important time for the Tourism industry in Halifax to unite. Gain access to industry information, get connected to visitors, and lets unite our voices to continue to make Halifax a great place to live, work, and visit.
Ontario Equity Investment Programs Currently Available:
No fixed amount
Accelerator, Investment
Description:
The Investment Accelerator Fund (IAF) takes a founder-aligned approach to nurturing breakthrough Canadian technology companies. IAF provides capital and equips portfolio companies with the necessary resources, skills, and networks to validate their ideas and market their products and services. Leveraging the team’s robust international experience, IAF enhances company profiles, explores market opportunities, and aids talent acquisition. It acts as a crucial conduit, connecting early-stage funding to the broader investment community via its extensive networks facilitating innovative venture growth.
$250,000
Investment
Description:
Ready 4 Market (R4M) is Ontario’s leading pre-seed investment fund. Through the fund, OCI co-invests with angel and other investors in early-stage Ontario-based start-ups with competitive IP commercializing transformative technologies to support their growth into scalable businesses. R4M is a competitive co-investment fund, with hundreds of companies considered for funding closing around 20 investments each year.
$500,000
Investment
Description:
The Life Sciences Innovation Fund (LSIF) is an early-stage co-investment fund that supports companies in Life Sciences and Healthcare Technologies sectors related to human health. The fund is aimed at addressing the unique challenges faced by life sciences entrepreneurs moving innovative and capital-intensive investments from a conceptual stage through to commercialization. Through the fund, OCI co-invests with angel and other investors to help de-risk the opportunity, assisting start-ups in becoming investor and customer ready and allowing them to attract follow-on investment.
No fixed amount
Investment
Description:
This program is for high-growth technology firms that have reached $2 million in revenue or capital and are on track to generating $100 million or more
No fixed amount
Investment
Description:
Explore Ontario, a premier four-season travel destination fuelled by millions of tourists annually. With a thriving domestic scene and many attractions, Ontario offers endless investment opportunities in its booming tourism industry.
No fixed amount
Investment
Description:
Welcome to the dynamic world of technology in Ontario, where innovation meets talent to drive progress across various industries. Our technology sector encompasses a diverse range of subsectors, each contributing to Ontario’s technological advancement. From pioneering developments in computer and electronics product manufacturing to breaking new ground in artificial intelligence and leading the charge in cleantech innovation, Ontario offers a wealth of opportunities for businesses looking to harness the power of technology for growth and sustainability.
No fixed amount
Investment
Description:
Discover abundant opportunities in Ontario, where companies can access some of the world’s most mineral-rich deposits. With a competitive business climate and a legacy of innovation, Ontario welcomes you to capitalize on the growing demand for critical minerals. Whether you’re exploring, financing, or part of the mining supply and services sector, Ontario offers a wealth of potential for your investment endeavors.
No fixed amount
Investment
Description:
Discover the power of collaborative innovation in Ontario, the home to the discovery of insulin and stem cells, and the largest life sciences jurisdiction in Canada. Hospitals, research centers, universities, technology incubators, start-ups and multinationals working together has created a dynamic ecosystem for groundbreaking discoveries, life changing clinical trials, and manufacturing capacity to scale. Ontario’s life sciences sector offers unparalleled opportunities for companies changing the face of healthcare.
No fixed amount
Investment
Description:
Explore Ontario’s forestry sector, where economic prosperity intersects with environmental stewardship. With forests covering 66% of the province’s land area, Ontario’s forestry industry is not only a significant contributor to the economy but also plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance.
No fixed amount
Investment
Description:
Explore growth opportunities in Ontario’s dynamic agri-food sector, a significant player in North America. With a strong presence in annual sales and a multitude of business locations, Ontario offers a diverse landscape for food and beverage manufacturers. Take advantage of a well-established supply chain, innovative research and development initiatives, and global market access through strategic trade agreements. Ontario’s dedication to innovation and sustainability sets the stage for your agri-food business to thrive.
No fixed amount
Investment
Description:
Experience innovation in Ontario’s manufacturing sector. Join a vibrant community of industry leaders who are charting the future of production in Ontario. Here, you will find access to state-of-the-art technologies and tailored support, all designed to help your business thrive.
No fixed amount
Investment
Description:
The Grid Innovation Fund (GIF) advances innovative opportunities to achieve electricity bill savings for Ontario ratepayers by funding projects that either enable customers to better manage their energy consumption or that reduce the costs associated with maintaining reliable operation of the province’s grid. The GIF makes investments in specific projects – not companies – with clear objectives. It supports projects that validate the performance and business case of promising new technologies, practices, and services. The GIF also supports projects that identify and mitigate market barriers, or otherwise accelerate the adoption of competitive cost-effective energy solutions.
No fixed amount
Investment
Description:
The Green Market Acceleration Program (GMAP) provides local firms and foreign investors with an opportunity to collaborate with the City of Toronto in order to accelerate the development and commercialization of made-in-Toronto green technologies.
Participants accepted into GMAP will gain controlled access to City-owned infrastructure and assets (ie. buildings, streets, vehicles, water) for applied research, proof of concept and demonstration pilots for their new green technologies during the early stages of product development.
PEI Equity Investment Programs Currently Available:
$25,000
Investment
Description:
The Ignition Fund is a competitive based innovation fund for entrepreneurs seeking start-up capital for a new business venture. Innovation PEI will invest seed capital that will allow the successful applicants to turn venture ideas into tangible, viable businesses.
Quebec Equity Investment Programs Currently Available:
$1,000,000
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
Quebec’s leader in venture capital, Investissement Québec invests in innovative, visionary, and forward-looking projects. This contribution of funds, vital for businesses, can be made directly or indirectly through specialized funds.
$5,000,000
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
Improving the condition of the hotel park infrastructure and adding tourist accommodation units;
More specifically, this component aims to:
The renovation and upgrading of accommodation units, meeting or conference rooms, public areas (entrance hall, reception, rest areas, public toilets, bar and other interior fittings) or the exterior structure of the building (cladding, roof, doors and windows, etc.);
The addition of hotel infrastructure.
$5,000,000
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
Stimulate private investment to renew the tourism offering in Quebec;
Promote the takeover of tourism businesses;
To ensure the growth, development and sustainability of tourism businesses;
Stimulate the regional economy by increasing the number of visitors and increasing tourism revenue;
Increase the economic and social vitality of communities and regions through the development of a sustainable, original and diversified tourist offering.
$500,000
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
The aim of this fund is to promote the implementation of innovative projects that will improve the tourist offering by attracting new customers and significantly extending the operating period of tourist businesses.
No specific amount was identified. Consult the guide publication.
Grant, Investment, Subsidy
Description:
Prioritize high-impact sectors and technologies
Solving societal challenges with innovative solutions
No specific amount was identified. Consult the guide publication.
Grant, Investment, Subsidy
Description:
Developing talent, succession and key skills in research and innovation
Developing scientific and innovation culture
No specific amount was identified. Consult the guide publication.
Grant, Investment, Subsidy
Description:
Adapting R&D incentives and innovation support programs
Supporting innovative technological entrepreneurship
Stimulating investment and commercialization of innovations
No specific amount was identified. Consult the guide publication.
Grant, Investment, Subsidy
Description:
Transfer and promote research results
Facilitate access to and promote ecosystem resources
Establish a regulatory environment favorable to innovation
No specific amount was identified. Consult the guide publication.
Grant, Investment, Subsidy
Description:
Supporting the initiatives of the Quebec Research Funds
Promoting synergies in the research ecosystem
No specific amount was identified.
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
This program aims to improve the production value of French-language fiction, documentary or animated television series in order to increase their commercial potential in markets outside Quebec by relying on technical and artistic aspects (visual and sound), the adaptation of Quebec literary works and the acquisition of rights for a minimum of three existing musical works.
$18,000,000.00
Grant, Investment
Description:
This component of the Technoclimat program offers financial assistance to support innovation in energy and the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions within the framework of bioenergy production projects.
This part of the program receives applications for financial assistance on an ongoing basis.
Although the regulatory framework allows for all forms of low-carbon energy, this part of the program currently only accepts projects that involve the production of bioenergy.
$3,000,000.00
Grant, Investment
Description:
The regular component of the Technoclimat program offers financial assistance to support innovation in energy and the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in all sectors of activity.
The financial assistance provided by the Minister will correspond to the lesser of the following amounts, according to the PML: – For PML 7: A maximum of 33% of eligible expenses up to a maximum of $1M per project. – For PML 8: A maximum of 33% of eligible expenses up to a maximum of $10M per project.
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
The program aims to:
• Advance projects to scale up mineral or primary processing of CSMs at the maturity
level of a semi-continuous pilot project (PML 7) or demonstration plant (PML 8) to a
higher level or to market (see Appendix 1 for a description of PML).
• Innovate by creating new processes or improving existing processes.
$4,000,000
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
On February 13, 2023, in Bécancour, the Consortium for Research and Innovation in Metal Transformation (CRITM) launched the Critical and Strategic Minerals Scientific Research Network (Network), whose main objective is to promote the development and sustainability of critical and strategic minerals (CSM) value chains.
$10,000,000
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
The Support Program dedicated to the scaling up of mineral processing or primary transformation processes for critical and strategic minerals (MCS) is aimed at companies in the mineral processing or primary transformation sector.
$1,000,000
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
The Economic Development Project Support Program – Structuring projects of organizations in support of the development of strategic sectors and regions (PAPDE, component 2) aims to support the implementation of activities and projects that promote the economic development of strategic sectors, niches and centers of excellence, innovation centers and zones as well as regions.
No specific amount was identified.
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
This program is aimed at commercial galleries that specialize in the contemporary art market. It aims to support these businesses in their activities of dissemination and promotion of the works of professional artists in Quebec.
No specific amount was identified.
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
Through this program, SODEC supports producers of digital experiences, as part of a business strategy over a two-year period, for the creation and promotion of a catalogue of works, content, experiences or technocreative cultural products of Quebec intellectual property.
No specific amount was identified.
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
The emerging creation support program:
is aimed at all Quebec audiovisual production companies that develop projects with emerging creators;
supports short and feature-length fiction film projects as well as short, medium and feature-length documentary projects.
They are generally submitted at the development stage, to benefit from the professional support, mentoring, networking and advice measures put in place for emerging creators.
However, some documentary or fiction feature films developed outside the program may be submitted directly to the production stage if they meet the specific eligibility conditions.
$200,000
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
The Quebec Alcohol Positioning Support Program – Support for associations within the framework of business support activities (PAPAQ, section 3) helps support producers of alcoholic beverages in the marketing of their products.
$1,000,000
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
The PARESAU – Forest Fire Measure 2023 provides support to companies that find themselves in a precarious situation and in temporary difficulty due to forest fires and demonstrate a cause and effect link between their financial and/or operational problems and the situation in question.
$5,000,000
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
Maintain business operations by temporarily supporting the working capital needs of strategic companies experiencing significant financial difficulties so that they can continue their activities and maintain their jobs, particularly during the period necessary to implement solutions.
$100,000
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
Maintain the activities of strategic companies in financial difficulty by supporting the development of solutions.
$3,000,000
Grant, Investment
Description:
The Support Program for Research and Innovation Organizations – Support for research projects in collaboration with the community (PSO, component 2) aims to:
strengthen the technological innovation capacity of companies and recipient environments through the development and transfer of technology resulting from public research projects;
strengthen the capacity of innovative companies with high growth potential (startups) to commercialize their innovations;
to establish partnerships between university, college, institutional and industrial circles, whether in Quebec, outside Quebec or internationally;
highlight research results and innovations that have commercial potential.
No specific amount was identified.
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
Promote awareness among college students of French-language songs by supporting dissemination activities (professional shows and activities designed specifically for this clientele).
$1,000,000
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
Impulsion PME (the “Program”) aims to help young innovative companies with high growth potential to gain access to investment capital at the seed stage.
The Program relies on the commitment and collaboration of two types of recognized entities: the reference entities and the recognized investors .
No specific amount was identified.
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
When transferring a business, the seller-lender formula from La Financière agricole can prove to be very advantageous, both for the seller-lender and for the buyer.
No specific amount was identified.
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
The Coalition for Greener Aircraft is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to developing smarter, more efficient and effective technologies while reducing the environmental footprint of the aeronautical industry.
The Coalition’s vision is to maintain Québec’s competitive position in a fast-evolving global aeronautical market, through research and development activities, in response to new environmental regulations in the fight against climate change.
$500,000
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
Launched in September 2022, the Research and Development Support Program for the Extraction, Processing and Recycling of Critical and Strategic Minerals is part of Action 2.2.2 of the Quebec Plan for the Valorization of Critical and Strategic Minerals 2020-2025 This link will open in a new window. . Financial assistance is available until March 31, 2025.
$500,000
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
Through financial support for research and development projects, the program aims to promote innovation and the acquisition of knowledge on critical and strategic minerals according to the application of circular economy principles in their development.
$250,000
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
The refundable tax credit for Quebec film and television production covers labour expenses incurred by a company that produces a Quebec film (or program).
$150,000
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
These funds aim to stimulate entrepreneurship at the local level.
No specific amount was identified.
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
Projects to support businesses in their digital shift are supported as part of the Digital Transformation Offensive (OTN) initiative, which aims to provide a structuring support-consulting approach with a view to:
implement digital projects;
increase the productivity and performance of SMEs through the integration of digital technologies.
$1,000,000
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
The Economic Development Project Support Program – Projects of organizations for the promotion of foreign trade or prospecting for foreign investments (PAPDE, section 3) aims to support projects of economic development organizations by raising awareness among companies regarding exports and diversification in foreign markets.
No specific amount was identified.
Investment, Loan, Loan Guarantee
Description:
This program provides loans to Quebec SMEs and large companies for projects involving expansion, exporting, modernization, innovation, buildings and equipment, marketing and more.
$115,000.00
Grant, Investment
Description:
SODEC supports under this program:
– fiction feature film projects (part 1);
– short fiction and documentary film projects (part 2);
– short-format narrative digital projects (part 2), i.e. audiovisual works of fiction or documentaries that develop a narrative proposal, linear or non-linear, interactive or immersive, intended for visual technologies (virtual reality, augmented or mixed) allowing user participation;
– medium-length and feature-length documentary projects — unique works (part 3).
$300,000
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
This program aims to support the implementation of innovative projects that will encourage the population and visitors to use more active and collective modes of transport during festivals and tourist events.
$1,000,000
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
You are an exporter needing to finance your working capital to support your market diversification strategies in Canada and internationally (outside the United States).
Panorama combines financing and support services to support and solidify your efforts in markets outside Quebec.
$500,000
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
The credit facility allows you to meet the financing needs for your operating expenses.
N/A
Grant, Investment
Description:
The Novoclimat program promotes the construction of new, high energy performance homes, according to specific construction requirements. It should be noted that the purchase of a condominium in a Novoclimat certified building does not entitle the owner to financial assistance, which is paid instead to the project’s promoter.
N/A
Grant, Investment
Description:
The Novoclimat program applies to buildings of over 600 m² with up to 10 storeys in which electricity, natural gas or residual forest biomass is the main source of energy. The buildings must be newly built or undergoing major renovation.
It should be noted that the purchase of a condominium in a Novoclimat certified building does not entitle the owner to financial assistance, which is paid instead to the project’s promoter.
No specific amount was identified.
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
Promoting the competitiveness of Quebec music publishing companies on national markets
Promote the development and marketing of Quebec musical works
Contribute to the development and support of Quebec songwriters, including emerging ones
Boost revenue from catalogs of Quebec musical works.
No specific amount was identified.
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
Implement new land developments to promote the conservation or improvement of biodiversity by carrying out one of the following developments:
Widened shrubby or wooded riparian strip
Hedge or wooded island
No specific amount was identified.
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
Reduce the proportion of eligible crop areas occupied by corn (grain or forage) or soybeans, compared to the average proportion of the five years preceding the first year of participation, until this proportion reaches 60%, by replacing it with the following crops in a minimum proportion of 5% per year during the first or second year of participation:
No specific amount was identified.
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
Practice of promoting balanced management of crop nutrients by reducing the use of mineral nitrogen fertilizer.
No specific amount was identified.
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
This practice is part of the Agro-Environmental Remuneration because herbicides represent approximately 70% of pesticide sales in Quebec for the agricultural sector. Alternative solutions to their use exist.
No specific amount was identified.
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
The practice of off-season soil protection is part of the Agri-Environmental Remuneration since precipitation, snowmelt and wind can cause significant water and wind erosion.
On the scale of a cultivated hectare, this can result in the loss of several tonnes of soil each year, detrimental both to the productivity of the fields, but also, in particular, to the quality of surface water in agricultural watersheds.
No specific amount was identified.
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
The Ministerial Initiative for Agri-Environmental Compensation is a program of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food of Quebec (MAPAQ), the administration of which has been entrusted to La Financière agricole du Québec (FADQ).
No specific amount was identified. Consult the program Framework/guide for detailed one.
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
The Mining Research and Innovation Support Program (PARIDM) is intended for companies in the mining industry in Quebec as well as those offering goods and services to this sector. The objective of the program is to support companies in carrying out their research and development projects in order to innovate and improve the competitiveness of the mining industry in Quebec, according to at least two dimensions of sustainable development (environmental, economic and social). This program has been offered since April 2017 and is now renewed until March 31, 2025.
$100,000
Grant, Investment, Subsidy
Description:
Promote the implementation by large companies of projects aimed at their internationalization.
$100,000
Grant, Investment, Subsidy
Description:
Encourage companies to carry out projects to market products and services outside Quebec and promote the development of external markets for SMEs.
$250,000
Grant, Investment, Subsidy
Description:
Promote the integration of businesses into strategic supply chains in Quebec and increase the capacity of businesses to participate in calls for tenders from major public procurement bodies in Quebec.
$15,000,000
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
The investment line of credit is a completely different financial product from the secured loan . It allows you to quickly make funds available to you. It is suitable for you if you regularly have investment and financing needs. To do this, you must have detailed planning of your investment projects.
No specific amount was identified.
Investment, Loan, Loan Guarantee
Description:
SODEC’s Investment Bank provides loans and loan guarantees to Quebec cultural businesses. The financial support is meant to:
1. support the development of all their activities;
1. enable the realization of their expansion potential;
2. ensure their sustainability, among other things, through succession or the transfer of businesses;
3. strengthen and maintain Quebec ownership;
4. ensure the financing of promising projects;
5. support digital development.
No specific amount was identified.
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
This program, administered by SODEC, takes the form of a loan guarantee or, exceptionally, can be offered in the form of a direct loan that can cover a maximum of 75% of the anticipated refundable tax credit.
SODEC guarantees the lender the reimbursement of 100% of the principal balance of the loan and also 100% of the accrued interest and recovery expenses, without exceeding 15% of the principal balance on the date of the loan recall.
For the purposes of applying this program, the lender must be a bank within the meaning of the Bank Act (LC, 1991, c.46) or a caisse within the meaning of the Act respecting financial services cooperatives (RLRQ, cC-67.3).
No specific amount was identified.
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
The Government of Quebec uses mobilizing projects to provide financial support to private companies so that they can pool their efforts to successfully complete a project to develop an innovative product or process, by mobilizing universities, public research centers and SMEs. More specifically, a mobilizing project:
Is driven by industry vision and leadership;
Takes concrete form through the development, in the targeted sectors of activity, of new products and processes;
Helps to accelerate innovation and its integration into solutions that will give Quebec businesses a competitive advantage and generate maximum economic benefits for Quebec;
Brings together several partners, some of which11 do not receive financial assistance under the programme, who all participate in the financing and implementation of the project while sharing the resulting intellectual property;
Is managed by an NPO, existing or created specifically to carry out the planning, monitoring and control of the activities and costs of carrying out the project, as well as to report on them to the government. This NPO is unanimously designated by the partners.
$100,000
Grant, Investment, Crowdfunding
Description:
The Fund aims to support the development of collaborative projects in tourism.
No specific amount was identified.
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
Through this program, SODEC contributes to the consolidation of broadcasting venues essential to the development and diversity of Quebec talent.
No specific amount was identified.
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
The grand V initiative aims to stimulate your investments and accelerate your shift towards innovation and sustainable productivity in order to propel the growth of your business.
The grand V initiative offers you not only financing and technological support to support the implementation of your innovation and sustainable productivity projects, but also a whole range of complementary tools to inspire and guide you.
In addition, with the grand V duo, a combination of financing and technological support, you could be eligible for a bank of hours with our innovation experts.
$5,000,000
Loan, Investment
Description:
The Financing Fund for Hotel Establishments (PADAT section 2) is part of the perspective of responding to a significant need for renewal of infrastructure in the hotel accommodation sector. Read the contents of note number1. This component aims to improve the state of the hotel infrastructure and add tourist accommodation units.
$10,000,000
Grant, Investment, Subsidy
Description:
This component of the Technoclimat program offers financial assistance to support innovation in energy and the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions within the framework of bioenergy production projects.
This part of the program receives applications for financial assistance on an ongoing basis.
Although the regulatory framework allows for all forms of low-carbon energy, this part of the program currently only accepts projects that involve the production of bioenergy.
$3,000,000
Grant, Investment, Subsidy
Description:
The regular component of the Technoclimat program offers financial assistance to support innovation in energy and the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in all sectors of activity.
$10,000,000
Grant, Investment, Subsidy
Description:
This component of the Technoclimat program provides financial assistance to support innovation in energy and greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction. It is intended for Quebec industries subject to the GHG emission allowance cap-and-trade system (SPEDE)This hyperlink will open in a new window. and their partners.
$20,000
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
Accelerate the growth of productivity of Quebec businesses through an innovative technological transition or the acquisition of new technologies
Promote the realization of investment projects in Quebec as part of the establishment or expansion of businesses here or elsewhere
$50,000
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
Accelerate the realization of an investment project for your company by allowing the use of studies prior to your investment project, i.e. feasibility studies and a digital diagnosis.
No specific amount was identified.
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
Increase the presence of Quebec companies in global supply chains by supporting them in their more complex internationalization strategies
$100,000
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
Reducing the environmental footprint of Quebec businesses, particularly through the adoption of clean technologies
$25,000
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
This tax measure aims to consolidate the development of information technology (IT) throughout Quebec. It allows specialized companies that carry out innovative activities with high added value in the IT sector to obtain a tax credit of up to an annual maximum of $25,000 per eligible employee .
$100,000,000.00
Investment, Loan
Description:
Whether it is an equity investment or a combination of financing solutions, debt, equity, quasi-equity, our major accounts team can offer you the leeway you need to achieve your ambitions. Investing in growing and established companies in Quebec, we stand out for our vision focused on economic development and our desire to ensure the sustainability of Quebec companies.
$10,000,000
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
Whether it is an equity investment or a combination of financing solutions, debt, equity, quasi-equity, our major accounts team can offer you the leeway you need to achieve your ambitions. Investing in growing and established companies in Quebec, we stand out for our vision focused on economic development and our desire to ensure the sustainability of Quebec companies.
No specific amount was identified.
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
SODEC supports projects in development for feature-length fiction films and for medium-length and feature-length documentary films (unique works) (sections 1 and 2) as well as prototyping projects for animated feature films (section 1).
$500,000
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
The program aims to enable La Financière agricole to minimize the impact of an increase in interest rates on agricultural businesses and thus support them by granting them financial assistance in the form of a contribution to the payment of interest.
It offers two advantageous protections against rising interest rates in the event that the market interest rate exceeds an established threshold and for a fixed period, namely the Privilege Rate and the Sécuri-Taux Relève.
$750,000.00
Investment, Loan
Description:
This program aims to support independent Quebec companies producing fiction, documentary or animated television series, with the aim of improving their positioning on foreign markets.
100% of project costs
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
Collective entrepreneurship plays an important role in economic development. Cooperatives and NPOs can count on the support of Investissement Québec’s financing experts to bring their projects to fruition and obtain appropriate financial support.
No specific amount was identified.
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
In order to improve the chances of success of a new agricultural business, this financial product offers a capital payment holiday that can be spread over up to five years.
$1,500,000
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
This call for projects is aimed at groups of companies wishing to carry out an innovation project as well as research and development in artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum technologies with the possibility of collaboration with a public research center.
$75,000
Grant, Investment, Subsidy
Description:
The general objective of the Innovation program is to strengthen the innovation capacities of companies, primarily SMEs, at the different stages of their innovation projects.
No specific amount was identified.
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
Contribute to the consolidation of Quebec companies in the music and variety industry that demonstrate significant potential.
Promote the development of artists’ careers through established companies working in the fields of production of musical or variety content and shows, or management.
Contribute to the development of emerging artists, groups or ensembles.
Allow the production and distribution of a greater diversity of works.
Promote the circulation of musical shows in Quebec.
Promote the development and distribution of Quebec musical or variety content in new media.
$10,000,000
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
The objective of this program is to provide financial support to Quebec companies with high growth potential in the life sciences sector in order to encourage them to commercialize the results of their research, while encouraging the participation of private investors.
No specific amount was identified.
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
Professional associations and collective mandate organizations play an essential role in the vitality and recognition of cultural industries and the sectors of activity they represent. In this sense, they are privileged partners of SODEC to exert more structuring effects on all companies.
No specific amount was identified.
Grant, Loan, Investment
Description:
This program supports the pre-development of fiction television series, documentary series and youth series, based on adaptations of Quebec literary works. It allows companies to mobilize the expertise necessary for the pre-development of one or more projects that have not yet received support from a broadcaster, distributor or development financing, and facilitates the financial commitment of partners in the subsequent stages of development and production.
No specific amount was identified.
Grant, Investment, Subsidy
Description:
The aim is to encourage companies from the same sector or from related sectors of activity to take part in pre-competitive research consortia. Read the contents of note number1 , or to proceed with their creation in order to jointly carry out pre-competitive research activities in Quebec.
Saskatchewan Equity Investment Programs Currently Available:
No fixed amount
Investment
Description:
The Creative Saskatchewan SaskTel Max Equity Fund provides financial support to eligible Saskatchewan-based independent producers of audiovisual productions. Creative Saskatchewan may invest in eligible projects that demonstrate significant economic, cultural and employment benefit to the Saskatchewan industry, and a high potential of recoupment and profit in the application.
No fixed amount
Investment
Description:
A pool fund LSVCC is an investment corporation that can issue shares to Saskatchewan residents. The funds are open to any Saskatchewan resident wanting to invest in a broad base of Saskatchewan sectors and businesses. In turn, Saskatchewan businesses can apply to access this venture capital to assist with startup or expansion.
Pool funds available for investment include the Golden Opportunities Fund Inc. and SaskWorks Venture Fund Inc.
Yukon Equity Investment Programs Currently Available:
No fixed amount
Investment
Description:
An agriculture spot land application is where you identify the parcel of land you wish to use for agriculture. Spot land applications are for soil-based activities (example: hay crop, market garden). The land must:
• be vacant and available;
• have arable soil that can support growing crops;
• have a minimum parcel size of 6 hectares;
• have a maximum parcels size of 65 hectares; and
• have reasonable access.
Farmers, producers and livestock owners can acquire public land for:
a) agriculture production through an Agreement for Sale; or
b) areas for grazing through a Grazing Agreement.
No fixed amount
Investment
Description:
A Grazing Agreement provides the right to the graze and the ability to fence the grazing area. You must include gates to allow access for other users. The agreement does not provide land title; it only provides grazing rights.
Farmers, producers and livestock owners can acquire public land for:
a) agriculture production through an Agreement for Sale; or
b) areas for grazing through a Grazing Agreement.
No fixed amount
Investment
Description:
We make undeveloped land available for farming through our Agriculture Planned Land program. We:
• identify lands for agriculture development;
• complete the Yukon Environmental and Socio-economic Board assessment; and
• prepare the lots for sale, for example, construct access roads and complete survey work.
Farmers, producers and livestock owners can acquire public land for:
a) agriculture production through an Agreement for Sale; or
b) areas for grazing through a Grazing Agreement.
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Maurice
