Financial Support for SMEs in Quebec’s Regions: Nearly $40M to Drive Business Transfer and Support Green and Digital Transitions

The Réseau des SADC (Sociétés d’aide au développement des collectivités et des CAE (Centres d’aide aux entreprises) is essential to support Quebec’s SMEs. We are pleased to announce the launch of three new funds, totaling nearly $40 million in investments, aimed at addressing urgent needs faced by Quebec entrepreneurs. The SADC and CAE will offer new financial products in the form of loans to support business transfers and accelerate the green and digital transitions of SMEs.

“These new investments provide a concrete response to the major challenges faced by entrepreneurs in our communities. Thanks to their local presence, the SADC and CAE provide close support, enabling our network to react quickly and help SMEs pursue their growth, innovation, and sustainable development ambitions,” said Pascal Harvey, President and CEO of the Réseau des SADC et CAE.

Entrepreneurs will be able to access loans of up to $50,000 on favorable terms, including a two-year interest-free period. In addition to financing, the SADC and CAE will offer personalized support, training, tools, and access to a vast network of expertise and partners. The advisors at the SADC and CAE are familiar with the local economic challenges and benefit from boards of directors made up of local leaders, which are key factors in the success of businesses in regional areas.

About the New Funds:

The three new funds offer favorable terms, which may vary slightly from one SADC or CAE to another. Overall, the loans available can go up to $50,000. Interest-free for the first two years and capital-free for the first three months with the possibility of extension up to two years.

Business Transfer Strategy Financing

• To facilitate business transfers in the regions, both for internal and family succession, as well as for the acquisition of businesses.

Green Strategy Financing

• To accelerate the green transition of small businesses in Quebec’s regions by supporting the adoption of eco-responsible practices or the implementation of clean technologies within businesses, such as optimizing energy efficiency, managing waste materials, or reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Digital Strategy Financing

• To accelerate the digital transition of small businesses, such as the implementation of management systems (CRM, ERP), process automation, robotics, smart technologies, or enhancing cybersecurity.

Read the full press release.