Quebec Programme Innovation — Volet Primo-Adoptants (First Adopter Call)

Insider Tip

The incubator sponsorship is not optional — if you are not already in a recognized Quebec incubator or accelerator program, secure this before applying, as they can take weeks to onboard. The adopter must have zero ownership stake in the startup — even a small advisory share disqualifies them. Applications must be submitted as scanned originals in a single electronic transmission. Create your clicSÉQUR account at least 3-4 weeks before the deadline to avoid last-minute portal issues.

Success Profile

A Quebec-incorporated tech startup under 5 years old, with a working prototype ready for real-world piloting, an incubator sponsor, and an identified established Quebec company willing to test the technology in its live operations. Ideal candidates have deep IP ownership, founder dedication above 35 hours/week, and a genuine technology feedback loop with the adopter rather than a pure service arrangement.

Evaluation Criteria

Projects are assessed on four criteria: (1) scientific and technological quality and novelty of the innovation; (2) quality of collaboration between startup and adopter, including expertise and complementarity; (3) project feasibility, implementation plan, and financing structure; (4) expected scientific, technological, and social/economic impacts. MEIE reviewers assess whether the project genuinely involves real-world testing and adaptation, not just a service contract.

Application Steps

Required Documents 8

Eligible Expenses 10

• Salaries and benefits for project staff
• Professional service fees and subcontracting
• Travel and accommodation related to the pilot
• Direct material and inventory costs
• Equipment costs (proportional to project duration)
• Equipment rental and facility fees
• Intellectual property protection costs
• External testing and certification costs
• Incubator/accelerator accompaniment fees (max 5% of total)
• Project management fees for sectoral groupings (max 2%)

Ineligible Expenses 5

• Expenses incurred before the grant decision
• Capital expenditures not proportional to project duration
• Sales tax (GST/QST) recoverable by the applicant
• Debt service or financing costs
• Pure service contracts without technology adaptation

Intake Periods

Three annual intakes: approximately April, July, and November. Current 2026 deadlines: April 3 (5pm), July 17 (5pm), November 4 (5pm). Applications portal opens approximately one month before each deadline.

Deadline Notes

Three annual intake deadlines: April 3, 2026 (5:00 PM) — past; July 17, 2026 (5:00 PM) — next; November 4, 2026 (5:00 PM). Founders must create a clicSÉQUR – Entreprises account 3-4 weeks before the deadline and register for ministry services 24-48 hours before submission. Applications submitted electronically via the MEIE portal or by email to [email protected].

Open Application Portal →

Ineligible Organizations

• Startups incorporated for more than 5 years
• Companies with recurring commercial sales (past pre-commercialization phase)
• Companies more than 50% owned by other entities
• Primo-adopters with any ownership stake or board representation in the startup
• Startups without an approved incubator/accelerator sponsor

Compatible Programs

Clawback Risk

Medium Risk

If the startup fails to deliver the project, loses Quebec incorporation, or transfers IP ownership outside the company during the grant period, MEIE may require repayment. Standard contribution agreement clawback conditions apply. The risk is moderate given the stage — early-stage startups have higher failure rates.