Tools, guides, and templates

1. Which grants exist for starting a business?

In Quebec, entrepreneurs can access grants such as:

• Soutien au démarrage (MRC, SADC/CAE)
• Mesure STA – Soutien au travail autonome
• Programme d’aide à l’entrepreneuriat
• Fonds d’initiative autochtone (if applicable)
• Sector grants (tourism, tech, culture, construction)

Eligibility depends on your stage of growth and industry.

2. What is a grant?

A grant is money from a government or organization to support a project with no repayment. It can fund equipment, startup costs, training, innovation, or growth.

3. Another way to define a grant?

It is non-repayable financial aid that backs a specific project tied to jobs, economic development, or innovation.

4. Which grant helps replace windows?

Several energy-efficiency programs apply:

• Rénoclimat (Government of Quebec)
• Chauffez vert
• Federal Écoénergie program

Amounts vary based on window type, insulation, and energy rating.

5. Which grants exist for associations?

Associations can apply for:

• Programme d’aide aux organismes communautaires (PAOC)
• Culture sector support
• Fonds de développement régional (FDR)
• Local MRC or municipal funding

6. How to get a grant for an association?

• Define the project and funding needs.
• Select the right program.
• Prepare a full file (action plan, budget, impacts).
• Submit on time.
• Follow up and provide required reports.

7. How should an association write the request?

Submit a structured application with:

• Project objectives
• Expected outcomes
• Detailed budget
• Proof of operational capacity

Some grants also need letters of support or a strategic plan.

8. How do you account for an investment grant?

In Quebec accounting:

• Record it as deferred revenue, then amortize at the same pace as the asset.
• It does not flow into the current year’s revenue except in rare cases.

9. How do you get a grant?

• Assess the project’s funding needs.
• Identify relevant programs.
• Build a solid plan with proof and metrics.
• Submit a complete application.
• Do post-submission follow-up.

10. How does a business qualify for a grant?

• Demonstrate economic need or innovation.
• Provide a detailed budget.
• Show economic or social impacts.
• Apply on time and meet all criteria.

11. How to request a charger installation grant?

Current programs include:

• Transportez vert (Quebec)
• Zero-emission vehicle incentive (federal)

To apply: provide proof of purchase, invoice, installation address, and the official form.

12. Who funds grants in Quebec?

Main sources:

• Gouvernement du Québec (ministères)
• Gouvernement du Canada
• Municipalités et MRC
• Organisations régionales (SADC, CAE, PME MTL, FRCN)
• Private or sector foundations

13. What grants are common for associations?

Typical options include:

• Operating grants
• Funding for community projects
• Support for culture, arts, youth, sports
• Municipal and regional programs

14. Which account should record a grant?

In accounting:

• Operating grant → revenue account
• Investment grant → deferred revenue or reduced asset cost
• Wage grant → lower labor expenses

15. A simple definition?

A grant is free financial aid to deliver an economic, community, or energy project.

16. How to account for any grant?

Depends on the type:

• Operating: recognize as revenue
• Investment: defer and amortize
• Payroll: reduce wage expense

Refer to NCECF standards and Revenu Quebec guidance.