Many Canadian e-commerce businesses know they need better digital marketing, smarter data, or a stronger online store to grow sales—but the cost can slow you down. Digital Accelerator funding helps eligible businesses cover part of those costs, so you can invest in the tools and expertise that drive online revenue. In Quebec, this support is delivered through the Digital Accelerator program by MTL+Ecommerce, which reimburses up to 50% of eligible project expenses.
The Digital Accelerator is designed to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) improve online performance through structured digital projects and personalized coaching. It is not a general cash grant. Funding is tied to a defined project that supports growth in areas like e-commerce, web marketing, and digital strategy.
Based on the current program data:
Funding amount:
Who can apply:
Your business must:
Other commitments:
Digital Accelerator funding is most effective when tied directly to sales growth. Eligible project types typically include:
These projects are delivered with personalized coaching, which is a core part of the program.
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you quickly filter Digital Accelerator-style programs by province, revenue level, and industry in seconds.
To get real sales impact, your project plan matters as much as the funding.
Strong applications connect digital work to outcomes like:
Vague goals like “improve our website” are less compelling than “increase mobile conversion by 15%.”
Digital Accelerator funding is reimbursement-based. You pay eligible costs first, then receive up to 50% back after approval and completion milestones. Make sure your cash flow can handle this timing.
You must maintain your digital strategy for six months after the program. Focus on systems and capabilities—analytics, marketing automation, CRO—not one-time campaigns that stop when funding ends.
Set baseline metrics before your project starts. This makes reporting easier and shows the real ROI of Digital Accelerator funding on your e-commerce sales.
Assuming it covers 100% of costs
The program reimburses up to 50% only. You must budget for the remaining portion.
Including ineligible expenses
Taxes are not reimbursable, and unrelated operational costs can be rejected.
Underestimating reporting requirements
Follow-up surveys and program participation are mandatory. Skipping these can affect reimbursement.
Applying without meeting revenue thresholds
Businesses under $200,000 in annual revenue typically do not qualify.
Q: How much Digital Accelerator funding can my e-commerce business receive?
You can receive reimbursement for up to 50% of eligible project costs. A 5% management fee is deducted from the reimbursed amount, and taxes are excluded.
Q: What types of e-commerce projects are eligible?
Projects focused on online visibility, digital marketing, e-commerce optimization, and advanced digital strategies are commonly supported. The project must align with growth objectives.
Q: Do I need to pay costs upfront?
Yes. Digital Accelerator funding is reimbursement-based. You pay the consultant or supplier first and are reimbursed later.
Q: Is Digital Accelerator funding taxable income?
In most cases, government funding is treated as taxable income. Confirm how this applies to your business with your accountant.
Q: How long must I maintain the digital strategy after the program?
You must commit to maintaining the strategy for at least six months after completing the program.
GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant programs across Canada—including digital and e-commerce funding—so you can quickly see which options match your business profile.
If you are planning to scale online sales, Digital Accelerator funding can reduce the risk of investing in better e-commerce systems and marketing. The key is aligning your project with measurable sales growth and meeting the program’s eligibility rules. Platforms like GrantHub help you spot Digital Accelerator-style programs and similar digital grants before you commit time to an application.
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