Tariffs imposed by the United States, China, and Canadian countermeasures are putting significant pressure on many Quebec manufacturing companies. To support the sector, Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED) has launched a new temporary financial assistance program: the Regional Tariff Response Initiative (IRRT).
This program offers a unique opportunity to secure significant financial support to accelerate modernization projects, strengthen supply chains, and diversify markets. But act quickly — the deadlines are tight.
- Up to $1M in non-repayable contributions (grant)
- Up to $300,000 for market diversification projects only
- Over $1M available as a repayable contribution
- Application period: October 10–31, 2025, at 12 PM ET for projects ≤ $1M
- Projects > $1M: applications accepted on an ongoing basis (subject to budget)
- Manufacturing SMEs
- Fewer than 500 employees
- Located and active in Quebec for 3+ years
- Annual revenue of $2M+
- Companies negatively impacted by tariffs
- Non-repayable contribution (up to $1M)
- Repayable contribution (over $1M)
- Maximum funding rate: 50% (grant) or 75% (repayable contribution)
The IRRT is a strategic opportunity for Quebec manufacturing SMEs affected by tariffs. Whether you are looking to invest in automation, modernize your facilities, or develop new markets, this program can significantly reduce your project costs.
Objectives of the IRRT Program
The initiative aims to support Quebec manufacturing SMEs by enabling them to:
- Invest in productivity through automation, digitization, and new equipment acquisitions.
- Reduce costs and improve competitiveness despite tariff pressures.
- Strengthen supply chain resilience to reduce risks from international markets.
- Diversify markets to reduce dependency on tariffed regions and capture new business opportunities.
Eligible Projects
The IRRT supports both structural investments and market diversification initiatives, including:
- Acquisition of equipment and automation/robotics projects.
- Digitization and advanced technologies to improve productivity.
- Market development: trade missions, client prospecting, market diagnostics, and expansion.
- Supply chain optimization and strategic partnerships.
- Technology showcases to demonstrate the effectiveness of new solutions.
Financial Assistance Up to $1M
Eligible companies can receive up to $1,000,000 in non-repayable funding (grant).
- Projects under $1M: applications accepted October 10–31, 2025
- Projects over $1M: funding available on an ongoing basis as a repayable contribution
The maximum funding rate is 50% for grants and 75% for repayable contributions.
Eligible Companies
To qualify, your company must:
- Be a manufacturing SME with fewer than 500 employees
- Be located and active in Quebec for at least 3 years
- Have an annual revenue of $2M or more
- Be directly affected by tariffs (e.g., increased costs, reduced profitability, lower revenue)
- Demonstrate financial viability prior to tariff imposition (before March 21, 2025)
Why Act Now?
Funding is limited, and the application period for projects under $1M closes on October 31, 2025, at 12:00 PM (ET). Act quickly to secure your funding. Early submission increases your chances of approval.
Revtech Systems can assist you with project ideation and implementation of your automation initiatives.