Subsidies for technological innovation in Quebec

TL;DR:

• Quebec offers over 200 funding opportunities for technology companies.
• The Impulsion PME program from Investissement Québec has CAD $120 million, with investments from $250,000 to $1,000,000 ($750,000 in Montreal).
• The PRIMA‑PARTENAR‑IA program funds collaborative artificial intelligence projects up to $1.5 million, covering up to 35% of eligible expenses.
• The CRIC and CDAE tax credits provide strategic fiscal support that can cover up to roughly 30% of eligible costs.
• All these measures target primarily SMEs and start‑ups, with an emphasis on collaborative and structuring projects.

1. A robust financing ecosystem for innovation

Quebec maintains an ambitious innovation strategy supported by the Ministry of Economy, Innovation and Energy (MEIE), Investissement Québec and various sectoral organisations. Numerous programmes encourage research collaborations, proof‑of‑concept and commercialisation.

In 2025, this dynamic aims both to support the growth of innovative start‑ups and help manufacturing firms modernise their processes using emerging technologies.

2. Structural support for artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence is a flagship sector in Quebec, benefiting from targeted programmes such as PRIMA‑PARTENAR‑IA, which funds collaborative projects between companies and research centres.

• Maximum aid: $1.5 million per project
• Duration: up to 24 months
• Aid rate: 35% of eligible expenses (rate confirmed for SMEs)

Another call for projects specifically targets quantum technologies and responsible AI, encouraging inter‑company collaboration with academic circles to generate economic spin‑offs.

3. Impulsion PME: for high‑potential innovative companies

The Impulsion PME program from Investissement Québec, with a total budget of $120 million, supports young technology companies:

• Support amounts: between $250,000 and $1,000,000 ($750,000 in Montreal)
• Type of funding: convertible loan or equity investment
• Target: growing technology start‑ups, particularly outside major centres

This program positions itself as a strategic lever to launch or accelerate large‑scale projects.

4. Tax credits: a fiscal tool not to be overlooked

Two main tax credits are relevant for innovative companies:

• CRIC – Research, innovation and commercialisation tax credit: for technological R&D or market‑entry projects.
• CDAE – Tax credit for the development of e‑business: for companies working in digital or software development.

These credits allow you to recover up to roughly 30% of eligible expenses, thereby reducing the net cost of projects.

5. Sector programmes for manufacturers

The SIPEM programme (Support for innovation and productivity in manufacturing companies) provides:

• Up to $500,000 per project
• Up to 50% of eligible expenses

It aims at digital transformation and integration of new technologies, notably in traditional industrial sectors.

Nationally, the NGen (Next Generation Manufacturing Canada) programme also offers subsidies for collaborative projects in advanced manufacturing, focusing on robotics, digital twins and sustainable materials.

Blue Fox’s message

Navigating the landscape of technology grants in Quebec requires strategic monitoring and a deep understanding of eligibility criteria. At Blue Fox, we help SMEs and start‑ups build winning files and connect with partners (universities, research centres, investors). Contact us to identify the best programme for your innovation project.

📚 Main sources:

• helloDarwin – Innovation subsidies 2025
• Applicant guide – PRIMA‑PARTENAR‑IA (official PDF)
• Investissement Québec – Impulsion PME