Digital Accelerator (Quebec): How to Apply + Eligibility Checklist

Digital Accelerator (Quebec): How to Apply + Eligibility Checklist

Is your Quebec business looking to grow online but missing digital expertise? The Digital Accelerator (Quebec) program can help. It covers part of the cost of hands-on digital coaching to improve your e‑commerce, marketing, or online visibility. The program is currently open and targets established SMEs with real growth potential.

Below is a clear breakdown of how the Digital Accelerator works, who qualifies, and how to apply without common missteps.

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What Is the Digital Accelerator Program in Quebec?

The Digital Accelerator is a Quebec program delivered by MTL+eCommerce. It supports small and medium-sized businesses by reimbursing part of the cost of personalized digital coaching.

Key program details

• Funding amount: Up to 50% of eligible project costs
• Funding type: Reimbursement (you pay first, then get reimbursed)
• Jurisdiction: Quebec
• Program status: Open
• Focus: Improving online visibility and digital performance

Eligible projects typically focus on practical digital improvements—like projects that improve your website or online marketing, not research projects.

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Digital Accelerator Eligibility Checklist

Use this checklist to see if your business qualifies for the Digital Accelerator in Quebec.

Business requirements

You must:

• Be a for-profit business
• Have fewer than 500 employees
• Be registered or incorporated in Quebec with a valid NEQ
• Operate as B2C or B2B
• Have at least one employee other than the owner
• Show minimum $200,000 in annual revenue in your most recent tax year

Program commitments

Your business must also agree to:

• Maintain the digital strategy for at least six months after completion
• Participate in follow-up surveys during and after the program
• Allow your business name to be published as a grant recipient
• Sign a Ministry of Economy & Innovation consent form
• Complete the full program requirements

If you’re unsure about your revenue level or staffing structure, you can compare your business profile to program requirements using neutral grant search tools.

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What Costs Are Covered?

The Digital Accelerator reimburses up to 50% of eligible expenses tied to digital coaching and strategy.

Eligible expenses may include:

• E‑commerce strategy and optimization
• Web marketing and paid media strategy
• Content and digital growth planning
• Advanced digital marketing support

Important cost limits

• A 5% management fee is deducted from the reimbursed amount
• Taxes (GST/QST) are not eligible

Because this is a reimbursement-based grant, you must budget for upfront costs.

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How to Apply for the Digital Accelerator (Quebec)

The application process is straightforward but requires preparation.

Step-by-step process

1. Confirm eligibility (revenue, employees, NEQ, Quebec presence)
2. Define a clear digital project with measurable goals
3. Work with an approved consultant or coaching provider
4. Submit your application through MTL+eCommerce
5. Pay project costs upfront
6. Receive reimbursement after completion and verification

Your application will be judged on your business’s ability to benefit from digital coaching and your readiness to implement changes.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Assuming startups qualify
   The Digital Accelerator is not for early-stage startups. You need at least $200,000 in annual revenue.

2. Forgetting about upfront cash flow
   This is a reimbursement program. If you cannot pay first, funding may not help.

3. Including taxes in your budget
   GST and QST are not reimbursed and will reduce your expected payout.

4. Underestimating post-program commitments
   You must maintain your digital strategy for six months and complete follow-up surveys.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much funding can I receive from the Digital Accelerator?
You can receive up to 50% of eligible project costs. A 5% management fee is deducted from the reimbursed amount.

Q: What types of projects are supported?
Projects focused on e‑commerce, web marketing, content strategy, and advanced digital marketing are eligible.

Q: Are taxes eligible expenses?
No. GST and QST are not eligible for reimbursement under this program.

Q: Do I need to pay costs upfront?
Yes. The Digital Accelerator is reimbursement-based, meaning you pay first and receive funding after project completion.

Q: Is the funding taxable income?
Grant funding is often considered taxable income. Confirm treatment with your accountant to avoid surprises.

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Next Steps

If the Digital Accelerator (Quebec) fits your growth plan, start by confirming your eligibility and project scope. From there, compare it with other Quebec and federal digital funding options to avoid leaving money on the table. GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant programs across Canada—see which ones match your business profile.

See also

• What Business Expenses Are Eligible Across Canadian Grants and Loans?
• Impulsion PME vs Other Quebec Startup Funding Programs
• How to stack grants and loans without violating funding rules

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