PSCE program: subsidize your sales and marketing with the Commercialization and Exportation Support Program

PSCE program: subsidize your sales and marketing with the Commercialization and Exportation Support Program (PSCE)

The Commercialization and Exportation Support Program (PSCE) is a government initiative in Quebec aimed at helping businesses strengthen their presence in both Quebec and international markets. Starting from January 15, 2024, new applications for this program will be accepted. In this presentation, we will delve into the details of each component, eligibility criteria, and supported project types.

Component 1: Strengthening SMEs’ Capacity to Commercialize Their Products and Services in the Quebec Market

This component aims to assist small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in enhancing their presence in the Quebec market by helping them integrate into the province’s strategic supply chains and respond to tenders issued by major public sector buyers in Quebec. Key points to note include:

• Non-repayable contributions are available.
• The maximum aid rate is 50% of eligible expenses.
• The maximum amount per enterprise per year is $250,000.
• A minimum expenditure of $25,000 is required.
• A minimum private contribution of 25% of the total project cost is mandatory.
• The cumulative government assistance cannot exceed 85% of eligible expenses.
• This component is open to for-profit businesses, social economy enterprises, cooperatives, and non-profit organizations (NPOs) with annual revenues below $100 million. Most sectors are eligible, with a few exceptions such as agriculture, finance, and public services.

Eligible projects include hiring specialists, obtaining certifications, market development, inventory management, and various other initiatives aimed at strengthening SMEs’ capacity in the Quebec market.

Component 2: Strengthening the Export Capacity of SMEs and Accelerating Their Projects in Markets Outside Quebec

This component aims to support SMEs in their endeavors to export products and services beyond Quebec’s borders and develop international markets. Here are the key elements to remember:

• Non-repayable contributions are available.
• The maximum aid rate varies depending on the number of projects submitted, with up to 50% of eligible expenses for the first project.
• A minimum expenditure of $25,000 is required.
• A minimum private contribution of 25% of the total project cost is necessary.
• The cumulative government assistance cannot exceed 65% of eligible expenses.
• This component is open to for-profit businesses, social economy enterprises, cooperatives, and NPOs with annual revenues ranging from $1 million to $100 million. Most sectors are eligible, subject to certain conditions.

Eligible projects include hiring foreign commercial representatives, obtaining certifications, conducting market studies, promoting business abroad, and various other initiatives related to exports.

Component 3: Support for Large Enterprises in their Structuring Projects in International Markets

This component aims to assist large enterprises in carrying out projects that promote their internationalization. Here are the key details:

• Non-repayable contributions are available.
• The maximum aid rate varies depending on the number of projects submitted, reaching up to 50% of eligible expenses for the first project.
• A minimum expenditure of $100,000 is required.
• A minimum private contribution of 25% of the total project cost is necessary.
• The cumulative government assistance cannot exceed 65% of eligible expenses.
• This component is open to for-profit businesses, social economy enterprises, cooperatives, and NPOs with annual revenues exceeding $100 million.

Eligible projects include hiring foreign commercial representatives, obtaining certifications, developing international marketing strategies, registering trademarks internationally, and other initiatives related to internationalization.

Feel free to ask additional questions or request specific information about any of these MESP components.