Spring Open Scholarships: Are You Eligible?

Every spring, numerous grant programs reopen their business support window in Quebec. Many of them operate on a first-come, first-served basis, with a limited budget. For SMEs and entrepreneurs, these few weeks represent a strategic opportunity... provided they're prepared. Here's an overview of the grants and subsidies available this spring and how to quickly check if you're eligible.

1. What is an open source program?

Unlike fixed-date calls for proposals, open-door programs are available until the funds are exhausted. There is no jury or competitive selection process: if you meet the criteria and the budget is still available, you are funded.

This means you have to be responsive. A well-prepared application, submitted at the right time, can make all the difference.

2. Examples of programs active this spring

Regional Economic Recovery Support Program

Amount: up to $25,000
For: Businesses located in the regions (excluding Montreal and Laval)
Eligible projects: hiring, training, modernization

Support for Self-Employed Workers (STA)

Amount: varies depending on the CLE
For: Self-employed start-ups
Required documents: business plan, proof of serious project

Wage subsidies for new employees

Amount: Up to 50% of salary for 30 weeks
For: Companies with fewer than 50 employees
Conditions: Hiring an eligible candidate (e.g., graduate, newcomer, unemployment insurance recipient)

SME in Action Program (Investissement Québec)

Amount: up to $100,000
For: Growth projects or digital transformation
Status: Open continuously until the regional fund is exhausted

3. Am I eligible? The right questions to ask

Is my business registered in Quebec?
Do I have a concrete project that could fit into a program?
Can I provide basic documents (financial statements, business plan, proof of employment, etc.)?
Am I willing to complete a short application or receive support?

If the answer is yes to at least two of these questions, it’s worth checking your eligibility.

4. How to Prepare Effectively

Prepare a clear description of your business and your project
Have your basic financial information at hand
Contact an advisor to validate your options (some services are free or subsidized)

At Vision PME, we help our members identify open programs, validate their eligibility, and submit the right applications—at the right time.

Conclusion

Open-door grants are a real opportunity to finance a project, a hiring, or a transformation. But since they don’t make a name for themselves and disappear quickly, it’s best not to wait.

Not sure where to start? Make an appointment with a Vision PME advisor and find out in just a few minutes what you could unlock this spring.