If you operate a farm or agri-food business in Quebec, expanding often means investing in land, equipment, or more sustainable practices. The sustainable growth investment programs in Quebec are designed to support these needs. Delivered by La Financière agricole du Québec (FADQ), these programs offer grants and loan guarantees to help you grow your business while improving sustainability.
One key stream, Sustainable Growth Investment: Agri-Environmental Enhancement of Cultivated Land, supports on-farm projects that protect soil and water and keep your land productive.
For those looking to explore all available programs, GrantHub is a helpful resource for discovering funding options tailored to Quebec agriculture and agri-environmental initiatives.
The Sustainable Growth Investment (SGI) initiative includes several funding options managed by La Financière agricole du Québec. To qualify, applicants must have an approved loan guarantee.
Here are the four main SGI programs available to Quebec farm businesses:
This is the primary program for established farms.
This stream is for larger or more ambitious projects.
This program supports young people starting or expanding a farm.
This stream is focused on projects that improve sustainability.
The application process is straightforward if you plan ahead and follow these steps:
Define your project
Ensure your project will boost production, performance, or profits. For the agri-environmental stream, show clear environmental benefits for your land.
Get a loan guarantee
All SGI programs require a loan guarantee from La Financière agricole du Québec. Contact FADQ early to discuss this step.
Check eligible expenses
Only certain costs are covered. This usually includes construction, equipment, plants, land improvements, and irrigation systems.
Submit your application to FADQ
Applications are reviewed for eligibility, financing details, and project impact.
If you’re unsure which stream fits your project, GrantHub offers tools to compare Quebec programs before you start your application.
Applying without a loan guarantee
Every SGI program needs an FADQ loan guarantee. Without it, your application will not be accepted.
Assuming all sectors qualify
Some types of production, such as beef cattle, sheep, or goat farming, might not be eligible for every stream.
Ignoring the financing cap
Even if your grant is smaller, the total eligible financing is limited to $700,000 per business.
Vague environmental results
For agri-environmental projects, you must clearly explain how your project will improve the land or the environment.
Q: Do I need a loan guarantee to qualify for these programs?
Yes. A loan guarantee from La Financière agricole du Québec is required for all SGI streams.
Q: How much funding can I get for agri-environmental projects?
You can receive up to $10,000 in grant funding, if you meet the requirements.
Q: What counts as agri-environmental enhancement?
Projects like soil improvement, erosion control, drainage, water management, and other land improvements that help the environment are eligible.
Q: Is the funding taxable?
Grant funding is usually considered taxable income. Check with your accountant for details based on your business.
Q: Can I combine this program with other grants or loans?
Sometimes. There are rules about stacking funding, and total public support cannot go over program limits.
Sustainable Growth Investment programs in Quebec can help you make real improvements to your farm, especially if you want to boost both growth and environmental performance. For more help finding programs that match your business, GrantHub tracks active grant opportunities across Canada, including Quebec agriculture and agri-environmental funding.
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