Guide · AI transition

AI grants in Québec.Who funds what in 2026.

You have a project, but not the budget to pay for all of it. Good news: several programs can fund part of it. Here is which ones, and how to build a project that gets approved.

Book my discovery callFind your AI grants. In two minutes.
Key points7 min
  1. BDC LIFT, launched in April 2026: AI advisers and loans from $25,000 to $5M.
  2. IRIA (CED) helps Québec small businesses integrate AI, through 2031.
  3. ESSOR helps pay for the assessment and digital plan.
  4. A specific, costed project with a plan is what makes the difference.

The problem

Most owners know vaguely that “there are grants”, without knowing which ones or for what. The programs are split across five or six organizations, each speaking its own language. Many businesses end up paying for everything, or putting the project off.

And when they do apply, the project is often too broad. “Modernize our operations” does not get funded. “Cut the time to prepare our quotes in half” does.

The solution

The 2026 landscape fits in one table.

ProgramOrganizationWhat it funds
LIFTBDCAI advisers and loans from $25,000 to $5M, with a better rate when you choose Canadian suppliers
IRIACanada Economic DevelopmentAI integration by small businesses (repayable contribution)
ESSOR, stream 1Investissement QuébecThe assessment and digital plan
CDAEIARevenu QuébecAn AI tax credit, in certain sectors
DÉCLIC IACRIMSupport for a first project
Local fundsMRC, CDE, SADCSmall projects and local advice

The right order: first an assessment that identifies the most profitable project, then a call to your regional office and the programs involved, then an application with a project, a budget and measurable results.

Find your AI grants. In two minutes.

Four questions to see which programs can pay for part of your project.

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Sources for the figures

How Northworks AI helps

We build the project with you.

The assessment and plan are the first deliverable of our AI transition service. They help you decide, apply, then deliver.

A project that gets funded, and a Québec supplier to deliver it.

Talk for 30 minutes, freeSee the service
Your project · AI transition4 steps
  1. The right projectThe one that pays off most, costed in hours and dollars.
  2. The planSteps, timeline, detailed budget and expected results.
  3. The right programsWho to talk to and what they ask for.
  4. DeliveryWe build the project and give you the evidence for payment.

Frequently asked questions

Can I combine several programs?

Often yes, within limits. Ask on your first call with each program.

How long does it take?

Several weeks between the first call and the decision. Start before you need the money.

Keep reading

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