This content is based on information available at the time of publication. Given the volatile trade landscape, some of these rules may have since changed. Nevertheless, the information provided remains highly relevant for businesses seeking to navigate the current market upheavals.
The Government of Québec, Investissement Québec and the Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec (CDPQ) have announced measures to help Québec businesses adapt their business model, become more competitive, and expand into new markets to counter the impact of U.S. tariffs. They complement recently announced federal initiatives.
BDO can help you act swiftly and find programs best suited to your circumstances so you can make the most of government financial support.
Cash flow loans for exporters
Investissement Québec’s FRONTIÈRE program helps companies sustain their operations and adapt their business model or supply chain to decrease their reliance on U.S. trade.
- Up to $50 million in loans
- 7-year term at the government’s financing fund rate +0.75%
- 24-month principal repayment moratorium
Short-term funding for manufacturing companies
Investissement Québec’s Chantier Productivité program, part of the ESSOR initiative, helps companies drive innovation, boost productivity, and improve their market position and resilience in the face of tariffs.
- Interest-free loans for projects over $100,000
- Non-repayable contribution for high productivity projects of over $10 million
Flexible financing to diversify exports
Investissement Québec’s Panorama program supports ambitious strategies requiring major investments through flexible financing solutions.
- Flexible financing options
- $250,000 to $1,000,000 term loan, with principal repayment moratorium for up to 24 months
- Over $1,000,000 in financing also available
Program for Québec businesses
The CDPQ offers support to companies seeking capital to launch new projects, boost productivity, or undertake strategic shifts without immediately diluting their capital, unduly inflating their debt, or affecting their liquidity.
CDPQ’s program is structured around three pillars:
- Capital – Flexible financing
- Expertise – Support for technological transformation
- Network – Support to explore new markets
SME financial assistance for training
Québec is allocating $8 million to support workforce training in international logistics, financing and exchange rates, international tax, and trade agreements to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) expand into new markets.
- Up to 75% of training costs reimbursed by Services Québec
- Eligible expenses may include employee salaries and skills development costs.
Additional tariff support programs from the Québec and Canadian governments
- Investissement Québec’s Grand V initiative to drive innovation and sustainable productivity
- CanExport SMEs program to support Canadian businesses in their pursuit of new international export markets
Local investment fund repayment moratorium
The Québec Government recently announced greater flexibility in the repayment of financial assistance granted through local investment funds.
- 6-month grace period on financial assistance repayment
BDO can help you
You can count on BDO’s expertise to determine which assistance measures apply to your business. Our team of Québec advisors will help you identify the most suitable measures, assess your eligibility, and help ensure compliance so you can make the most of Québec and Canada’s assistance programs.
Manager, Tax Credits and Government Incentives
Senior Manager, Tax Credits and Government Incentives
Partner, Tax Credits and Government Incentives
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The information in this publication is current as of March 14, 2025.
This publication has been carefully prepared but written in general terms and should be seen as broad guidance only. It cannot be relied upon to cover specific situations, and you should not act, or refrain from acting, upon the information contained therein without obtaining specific professional advice. Please contact BDO Canada LLP to discuss these matters in the context of your particular circumstances. BDO Canada LLP, its partners, employees, and agents do not accept or assume any liability or duty of care for any loss arising from any action taken or not taken by anyone in reliance on the information in this publication or for any decision based on it.