CED — Diversify your economy (QEPD)

Communities and businesses in Quebec looking to strengthen their local economy or reduce reliance on a single industry may find meaningful support through the CED — Diversify your economy (QEPD) initiative. Designed to stimulate regional growth, this program focuses on projects that attract outside spending, encourage investment, and create lasting economic benefits, particularly in regions facing slower growth or economic disruption. It is well suited to tourism-driven initiatives, community infrastructure projects, and business-led efforts that help diversify regional economic activity.

Delivered by Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, the program supports both small and medium-sized businesses and non-profit organizations with funding that varies by project scope. For SMEs, financial assistance typically covers a portion of eligible project costs and is structured as interest-free, repayable support, with repayment starting after the project is completed. Non-profit organizations can access more substantial, non-repayable contributions to advance projects such as developing tourist attractions, enhancing cultural or sporting events, acquiring shared economic facilities, or supporting local entrepreneurship through innovation, marketing, or new equipment.

With applications currently being accepted on an ongoing basis, this program offers flexibility for organizations planning strategic investments that can generate regional spin-offs. Exploring the full program details can help determine how your project aligns with the economic priorities and funding approach of QEPD.