Strategic sectors

This call for projects is part of the Innovation Program and is open to all Quebec companies, with priority given to SMEs and startups wishing to carry out an innovation project for development and/or commercialization in strategic sectors.

The call aims to support large-scale, structuring collaborative innovation projects involving at least two Quebec companies (including at least one SME or startup), with or without the collaboration of one (or more) eligible public research centers in Quebec, which may receive a grant of up to $1,000,000 per project.

The call for projects supports various partnership configurations necessary for the implementation of innovation projects, giving priority to multi-partner projects (more than two companies).

Eligibility

To be eligible, the consortium must include at least two Quebec companies in the aerospace sector, including one SME or startup.

Projects that aim to develop an innovative solution (products, services, or processes) from the planning stage to pre-commercialization (real-world demonstration and technology showcase) and that have the potential for significant short-term benefits are eligible. The solution developed may be used to meet the needs of the company or be intended for sale. However, the innovation project must meet all of the following criteria:

• Focus on the development of a new solution or the significant improvement of an existing solution;
• Demonstrate the required degree of innovation, i.e., the solution must offer a decisive advantage over existing solutions on the market and in the target industry, both nationally and internationally;
• Involve a technological and/or business risk or uncertainty for the company;Have required research and development efforts;
• When the product or process is intended for sale, the project must demonstrate commercial potential;
• Comply with one or more principles of the Sustainable Development Act (RLRQ, chapter D-8.1.1).

Funding

• The Ministry’s contribution cannot exceed $1,000,000 per project for a maximum duration of 24 months, ending no later than December 31, 2027 (no extensions will be accepted beyond this date).
• The maximum rate of financial assistance cannot exceed 35% of eligible project expenses incurred by an SME or large enterprise and 50% of eligible expenses incurred by a startup.

* In addition, the rate will be increased to 50%, regardless of the size of the company incurring the following expenses necessary for the completion of the project:

• Expenses incurred by an eligible public research center if they represent at least 20% of the project’s eligible expenses;
• Expenses for access to the quantum computing platforms of PINQ2, Calcul Québec, and DistriQ.

The amount of aid to be paid to each partner will be calculated based on their participation in the project, but no company may receive more than 80% of the total grant awarded.

Deadlines

The deadline for the Department to receive electronic versions of projects is October 30, 2025.