Administered by Government of Quebec · Last verified: July 2026
This stream of the Fonds regions et ruralite helps for-profit and social economy businesses set up, maintain, or expand a local business in municipalities of fewer than 20,000 people. Eligible projects improve everyday access to food, construction materials, consumer goods, or fuel for the local population. A $10 million annual envelope runs through 2028, awarded through periodic calls for projects.
Review times vary by program, from a few weeks to a few months, so check the official page for its timeline. Grant money is usually paid after you sign a funding agreement, and cost-shared programs often reimburse you once you send proof of what you spent.
Take the 3-minute quiz to find out, and see every other Canadian program you qualify for at the same time.
Check my eligibilityFonds regions et ruralite Volet 5: Local Businesses (Commerces de proximite) is generally open to incorporated, self-employed, partnership businesses, in Quebec, in Retail & E-commerce, Food & Beverage, Other. Confirm the full criteria on the official program page before applying.
The estimated value is Grants funded from a $10 million annual envelope through 2028. The actual amount depends on your eligible costs, the program's budget, and approval.
1. Contact your MRC economic development service or local development centre 2. Confirm the current call-for-projects dates 3. Submit a complete application during an open intake window
Periodic calls for projects; most recent intake Dec 15 2025 to Feb 16 2026.
Up to 30% of eligible expenses, up to $10 million per project
GRANTProject-based subsidies for energy efficiency and fuel conversion
GRANTProject-based grants for technology demonstration