The EVOL Business Financing Program

Overview of the The EVOL Business Financing Program program:

The EVOL Business Financing Program is a powerful financial and advisory resource tailored to underrepresented entrepreneurs in Québec. This program is operated by EVOL (formerly Femmessor), a leading non-profit organization focused on inclusive economic development. EVOL offers flexible loan financing of up to $250,000, combined with personalized coaching and expert guidance to help entrepreneurs build sustainable and socially responsible businesses. The program supports three key phases of business development: start-up, growth, and acquisition. Entrepreneurs must present a viable business model aligned with EVOL’s mission to promote economic equity, environmental responsibility, and inclusive governance. The initiative prioritizes projects that include at least one element of sustainable development—be it environmental practices, social impact, or inclusive leadership. In addition to financing, EVOL provides ongoing support including mentorship, training, and access to a provincial network of business advisors. Businesses in any industry are eligible, provided they operate in Québec and are majority-owned by entrepreneurs who identify with one or more of EVOL’s priority demographic groups. The program is backed by the Québec government and other economic partners, ensuring financial credibility and ecosystem support. This initiative is a critical bridge for diverse entrepreneurs who face barriers in traditional financing environments and need not just capital, but the long-term advisory support to succeed.

Benefits of the The EVOL Business Financing Program program:

• Access to flexible financing up to $250,000
• Tailored coaching and business advisory services
• Assistance with financial forecasting, market development, and impact measurement
• Priority support for underrepresented groups in business
• Supports all business stages: startup, expansion, acquisition
• Strong focus on sustainability, inclusion, and social innovation
• Integration into a powerful network of mentors, business leaders, and partners across Quebec
• Resources to build capacity in governance, HR, marketing, and financial planning

Eligibility criteria of the The EVOL Business Financing Program program:

• To be eligible, applicants must meet the following conditions:
• Location: Must reside and operate the business in Quebec
• Ownership: Must be majority-owned (at least 25% minimum by one or more) of the following:
• Women
• Indigenous Peoples
• Immigrants
• Visible minorities
• People with disabilities
• Members of the LGBTQ2+ community
• Business Stage:
• Startup
• Business growth
• Business acquisition
• Sustainable Development Requirement:
• Project must integrate at least one sustainable development element, such as:
• Environmental impact reduction
• Inclusive governance
• Local community benefit
• Legal Status: Business must be legally registered in Quebec and possess a Quebec business number (NEQ)
• Viability: Must submit a business plan and financial projections demonstrating potential for success
• Other Considerations:
• Must be able to repay a loan
• Applicants may need to demonstrate personal investment or external contributions to the project