Targeted support for Quebec's economically vulnerable RCMs

Overview of the Targeted support for Quebec's economically vulnerable RCMs program:

The Targeted Support for Quebec’s Economically Vulnerable RCMs program, managed by Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED), offers customized financial assistance to businesses and economic development organizations operating in specific RCMs identified as economically vulnerable. These areas face persistent challenges such as population decline, high unemployment, and low economic diversity. The program aims to enhance business growth, attract investment, and create sustainable employment opportunities in these communities. Funding is available for projects that contribute to local economic revitalization, such as innovation, productivity improvement, marketing, adoption of clean technologies, and business succession planning. Both for-profit and non-profit organizations are eligible, including cooperatives, Indigenous organizations, and community economic development groups. The support is tailored to meet the needs of the business or organization and may take the form of repayable or non-repayable contributions, depending on the project type and applicant profile. Projects must demonstrate their relevance to regional priorities and their potential to support structural transformation. The initiative is part of the federal government’s broader effort to reduce regional economic disparities and strengthen local economic resilience across Quebec. Eligible applicants must be located in one of the designated vulnerable RCMs, which are listed on the program webpage. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis and reviewed by regional CED business advisors who help tailor funding solutions to the specific context of the applicant and the region.

Benefits of the Targeted support for Quebec's economically vulnerable RCMs program:

• Financial support tailored to specific regional economic needs
• Eligible for both repayable and non-repayable funding depending on applicant
• Guidance from CED advisors during project development
• Strengthens economic resilience in Quebecs vulnerable regions
• Supports innovation, productivity, diversification, and workforce stabilization
• Open to both for-profit and not-for-profit organizations
• Encourages long-term structural transformation in local economies

Eligibility criteria of the Targeted support for Quebec's economically vulnerable RCMs program:

• Eligible applicants must:
• Be located in one of the designated vulnerable RCMs in Quebec
• Operate a business, non-profit organization, cooperative, or Indigenous economic group
• Submit a project aligned with regional economic development goals, such as:
• Productivity improvement
• Clean technology adoption
• Business growth or succession
• Export development
• Job creation or retention
• Economic diversification
• Have a realistic implementation plan and demonstrate financial viability
• Not be in default with the federal government
• Ineligible:
• Entities not located in the eligible RCMs
• Projects lacking economic development objectives
• Individuals or organizations not engaged in economic activities