MAPAQ Grants: Funding Your Agri-Food Project in Quebec
Quebec's Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAPAQ) supports agri-food companies investing in innovation, automation and food processing. When well targeted, these grants can cover a major share of your eligible expenses.
Why MAPAQ grants are a major lever
In a sector with thin margins and a heavy labour shortage, MAPAQ financial assistance lets you invest without draining your cash flow and accelerate your growth.
Automate and robotize
Fund the automation of your processing lines to address the labour shortage and increase your production output.
Innovate and develop products
Support the development of new food products, process improvements and the adoption of high value-added technologies.
Strengthen competitiveness
Modernize your facilities, improve your productivity and position your business against national and international competition.
Reach new markets
Grow your exports and diversify your outlets outside Quebec through the agri-food commercialization support streams.
Ensure food safety and traceability
Bring your processes into compliance, strengthen food safety and implement recognized traceability systems.
Reduce financial risk
By sharing the project cost with the government, you limit your exposure and can take on more ambitious investments.
Is your agri-food company eligible?
Each MAPAQ program has its own specifics, but most share a common set of eligibility criteria.
| Eligibility criterion | Description | What MAPAQ looks for |
|---|---|---|
| Company status | Be a legally constituted agri-food company operating in Quebec. | Proof of registration, up-to-date financial statements, description of production or processing activities. |
| Sector of activity | Belong to the agri-food sector: agricultural production, fisheries, aquaculture, food processing or distribution. | NAICS codes, description of the value chain, types of products processed or marketed. |
| Nature of the project | Aim for automation, innovation, productivity, food safety, traceability or market development. | Detailed project plan, measurable objectives, description of the targeted equipment and technologies. |
| Economic impact | Generate positive spinoffs for the Quebec agri-food economy. | Job retention or creation, productivity gains, local sourcing, response to the labour shortage. |
| Financial viability | Demonstrate the ability to co-finance the project and see it through. | Solid financial structure, realistic and documented forecasts, sound management history. |
| Eligible expenses | Incur expenses recognized by the program (equipment, technology, expertise, fees). | Detailed quotes and bids, clear cost breakdown, expenses incurred after project authorization. |
The main MAPAQ grant streams
MAPAQ runs several programs to support agri-food processing, innovation and commercialization. Here are the streams most often used by our clients.
Food processing investment
This stream supports food processing companies that invest in automation, robotics and process modernization to increase productivity and offset the labour shortage.
Increase production capacity, modernize equipment and integrate digital technologies on the plant floor.
Non-repayable contribution covering between 50% and 70% of eligible expenses depending on the project.
Purchase and integration of automated equipment, robotization of a process, implementation of an integrated management system.
Innovation and product development
Aimed at companies developing new products or improving their processes, this stream supports innovation projects with strong commercialization potential.
Develop new food products, increase added value and accelerate time to market.
Contribution covering a significant share of R&D, prototyping and validation expenses, up to 70% depending on eligibility.
Expert fees, trials and testing, recipe and process development, techno-economic studies.
Support for Food Exports (SEB)
This stream helps Quebec agri-food companies better prepare and strengthen their export capacity in order to develop and diversify their markets outside Quebec.
Develop markets outside Quebec, structure an export approach and increase international presence.
Contribution on eligible commercialization and foreign-market prospecting expenses.
Market studies, participation in international trade shows, trade missions, product and marketing adaptation.
How to maximize your MAPAQ grant?
Securing the right grant requires rigour, a careful reading of the criteria and a convincing file. Here is how we support you.
Diagnosis and strategic alignment
We analyze your agri-food project (automation, innovation, export, compliance) to align it with the most advantageous MAPAQ stream and confirm the eligibility of your expenses.
Program identification and validation
We target the optimal program, validate your preliminary eligibility and give you a clear picture of the assistance rate (between 50% and 70%), potential amounts and processing times.
Building a robust business case
We write a compelling narrative, define measurable indicators and build a financial structure that demonstrates the viability and spinoffs of your project to MAPAQ.
Support and follow-up
Once the application is submitted, we follow up with MAPAQ, respond to clarification requests and manage deadlines through to payment of the assistance.
FAQ
Which companies are eligible for MAPAQ grants?
MAPAQ grants are aimed at Quebec agri-food companies: food processing, agricultural production, fisheries and aquaculture, as well as food processors and distributors. Your company must be legally constituted and operating in Quebec. Some programs specifically target SMEs, while others are open to cooperatives, organizations and producer groups.
What percentage of expenses can MAPAQ fund?
Depending on the program and the nature of the project, MAPAQ financial assistance generally covers between 50% and 70% of eligible expenses. Components related to innovation, automation and food processing are among the most advantageous. The maximum amount and exact rate vary from one program to another, which is why it is essential to target the right program for your project.
What types of agri-food projects are funded?
Eligible projects include: automation and robotics of processing operations, development of new food products, implementation of digital technologies, productivity improvement, compliance upgrades, food safety and traceability, as well as market development outside Quebec. Projects that increase competitiveness and address the labour shortage are particularly favoured.
How long does it take to get a response from MAPAQ?
Processing times vary depending on the program and the complexity of the file, generally 2 to 4 months. A well-prepared application, supported by a solid business plan and documented financial forecasts, considerably speeds up processing and reduces the risk of requests for additional information.
Conclusion
MAPAQ grants are a strategic opportunity for Quebec agri-food companies to invest in automation, innovation and market development. With assistance that can cover between 50% and 70% of eligible expenses, a well-targeted project and a well-prepared file, you maximize your chances of success.
At Avinova, we know MAPAQ's evaluation criteria and how to present your project convincingly. Our team supports you from eligibility through to payment of the grant.
Contact us for a free consultation