This program is a fantastic opportunity for your business to secure funding for projects that conserve and improve the St. Lawrence ecosystem. By participating, you can receive up to 70% of your project costs covered, with a maximum of $200,000 for restoration and protection projects. This financial assistance can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses and allow you to focus on impactful environmental initiatives.

What You Get

• Up to $200,000 in funding for restoration and protection projects
• Up to $100,000 for awareness-raising activities
• Up to $25,000 for study projects
• Up to $200,000 for study-action projects

Benefits to Your Business

• Financial Support: Reduce your project costs by up to 70%.
• Community Impact: Enhance your business's reputation by contributing to the conservation of the St. Lawrence ecosystem.
• Partnership Opportunities: Collaborate with community organizations and other stakeholders, fostering valuable relationships.

Applying for this program is straightforward, and the support from project officers ensures you have guidance throughout the process. This is a unique chance to make a meaningful environmental impact while receiving substantial financial backing.

Type of Financing: Grant

Repayment Terms and Interest Rates:

• No repayment is required as this is a grant.
• No interest rates apply.

Eligible Expenses:

• Human resources, including salaries and benefits.
• Management and professional services (e.g., communications, graphic design, translation).
• Travel expenses.
• Equipment and supplies.
• Printing, production, and distribution costs.
• Equipment purchase or rental.
• Vehicle rental and use.
• Contractors for project activities.
• Reasonable share of overhead and/or administrative costs.
• GST and QST amounts not reimbursable by the respective governments.

Ineligible Expenses:

• Operating expenditures not related to the projects.
• Creation of organizations.
• Land purchases.
• Recurring projects.
• Activities that are already underway or completed.
• Annual activities, regular events, competitions, and fundraising events.

Fees:

• No fees are associated with this grant program.

This program offers your business a chance to receive up to $200,000 in funding. This money can be used for various projects aimed at conserving and improving the St. Lawrence ecosystem.

Eligible projects include:

• Awareness-raising activities: Educating the community about environmental issues.
• Studies: Developing action plans to address specific environmental concerns.
• Restoration and protection: Cleaning up shorelines, stabilizing and revegetating areas, and protecting wildlife habitats.

The program can cover up to 70% of the total project costs, making it easier for you to manage expenses. You can use the funds for human resources, professional services, travel, equipment, and more.

By participating, your business not only helps the environment but also gains positive community recognition. This is a great opportunity to contribute to a sustainable future while receiving substantial financial support.

1. Contact a Project Officer: Reach out to a project officer to discuss your project idea and ensure it aligns with the program's objectives. This step will help you understand the application process and gather preliminary feedback.

2. Prepare Documentation: Gather the necessary documents for your application. You will need:

   • Completed application form
   • Detailed project proposal
   • Budget plan
   • Letters of support from partners
   • Maps or photographs of the project area
   • Any required approvals or permits
   • Performance indicators and expected outcomes

3. Develop Your Project Proposal: Clearly outline your project's objectives, methodology, and implementation plan. Include details on how your project will enhance the St. Lawrence ecosystem, involve the community, and achieve sustainable environmental benefits.

4. Create a Budget Plan: Prepare a comprehensive budget that includes all eligible expenses such as human resources, equipment, travel, and administrative costs. Ensure the budget aligns with the program's funding limits and requirements.

5. Secure Matching Funds and Partnerships: Identify and secure matching funds from partners. This can include financial, material, or human resources contributions. Obtain letters of support from partners, detailing their contributions and the value they bring to the project.

6. Submit Your Application: Send your completed and signed application along with all required documents by the submission deadline. You can submit via:

   • Mail: Community Interaction Program, 1550 D’Estimauville Avenue, Quebec QC G1J 0C3
   • Fax: 418-649-6674
   • Email: [email protected]

7. Await Response: After submission, your application will be reviewed. You will receive a response approximately 16 weeks after the submission date. Be prepared to provide any additional information or clarification if requested.

8. Finalize Agreement: If your project is approved, finalize the funding agreement with the program. Ensure all matching funds and partner contributions are confirmed and documented.

By following these steps, you can successfully apply for funding under the program and contribute to the conservation and improvement of the St. Lawrence ecosystem.