Financing Programs for Business Transfers in Quebec: Fonds de solidarité FTQ, Investissement Québec and BDC
17 Mar 2026
Business transfer is a crucial step in ensuring the sustainability of Quebec SMEs. Fortunately, several government programs and private initiatives are available to support entrepreneurs in this process. This article explores the main financing options offered by the Fonds de solidarité FTQ, Investissement Québec and the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC), detailing their eligibility criteria, available amounts and the steps to follow.
Fonds de solidarité FTQ
The Fonds de solidarité FTQ is a major player in financing Quebec businesses. In 2024-2025, it invested $119 million to support the succession of 70 SMEs across Quebec, representing more than half of its regional investments. These funds have supported 151 companies, including 112 new partners, demonstrating the Fund's commitment to business succession.
Eligibility criteria:
- Quebec businesses of all sizes and sectors, with the exception of real estate sectors and agricultural land acquisitions.
- Projects over $100,000.
- Priority given to companies with competent teams, realistic business concepts and encouraging profitability prospects.
Available amounts:
- Financing in the form of unsecured loans or equity participation.
- Investments adapted to each stage of the entrepreneurial journey, from start-up to growth, including business transfer.
Application process:
- Preliminary analysis of the application.
- Initial proposal followed by validations.
- Firm commitment and disbursement of funds.
- Long-term partnership to ensure business success.
For more information, visit the official Fonds de solidarité FTQ website.
Investissement Québec
Investissement Québec offers various programs to support business transfers, including the Quebec Business Transfer Fund. This fund aims to facilitate the acquisition of existing businesses by offering advantageous financing conditions and expert advice.
Eligibility criteria:
- Quebec businesses whose head office is located in Quebec.
- Transaction involving a change of control within the company.
- Minimum participation of Investissement Québec or Fonds de solidarité FTQ in financing the acquiring company.
- Commitment of the successor to work full-time within the company and to inject a minimum down payment of $50,000.
Available amounts:
- Term loan equivalent to two dollars for each dollar invested by the buyer, subject to a minimum of $100,000 and a maximum of $500,000.
Application process:
- Submission of a detailed application including business plan and financial projections.
- Evaluation by Investissement Québec and Fonds de solidarité FTQ.
- Interviews and negotiations of financing terms.
- Signing of agreements and disbursement of funds.
For more details, visit the Investissement Québec website.
Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC)
BDC offers financing solutions adapted to the needs of Quebec entrepreneurs, including those in the business transfer phase. Although specific details of BDC programs are not explicitly mentioned in available sources, it is recommended to consult their official website or contact an advisor for updated information on available financing options.
Other relevant programs
In addition to the initiatives mentioned, several other programs and funds are available to support business transfers in Quebec:
- Regional Economic Intervention Fund (FIER): Intended for start-up, development or turnaround businesses, this fund also supports regional development projects. It is funded by the Quebec government and private investors, including the Fonds de solidarité FTQ.
- Grant and Financing Program for Business Takeover: Offered by CTEQ in collaboration with several partners, this program provides grant and financing services to facilitate business takeover, particularly through collective takeover.
To explore these options, it is advisable to consult the official websites of the organizations mentioned or to contact their services directly for personalized advice.
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