PME MTL – Young Business
Get up to $25,000 in non-repayable grant funding to launch your Montreal start-up. The key catch is that you must simultaneously secure a PME MTL loan to qualify for this support.
“For young Montréal entrepreneurs, this fund helps propel your business forward.”
From the official program page
Before you spend a dollar
Confirm with your local PME MTL service centre whether approval must precede spending or if reimbursement applies.
At a glance
Subject to program rules, available funding, and approval. Confirm current details with the official program administrator.
Not sure if you qualify?
Get a free, 2-minute read on whether this program fits your business. No obligation.
Check your fit →Is this for you?
- You are a start-up on the Island of Montreal that has been operating for less than five years.
- You need capital for equipment, leased space improvements, marketing, or working capital.
- You are ready to apply for a PME MTL loan at the same time, since the grant requires one.
Probably not the right fit if
- You are an established business that has been operating for more than five years.
- You are located outside the Island of Montreal.
- You refuse to take on debt, as this grant is strictly tied to receiving a PME MTL loan.
How much you'd realistically get
Up to $25,000 in non-repayable funding, available only when paired with a PME MTL loan.
What may be supported
- Purchasing equipment
- Improving a leased space
- Launching marketing initiatives
- Strengthening working capital
How applying works
Effort: moderateYou must prepare a loan application alongside the grant request, which requires detailed financial projections and a business plan.
- 01Identify your local PME MTL business service centre by entering your postal code on pmemtl.com.
- 02Prepare your business plan and financial projections, focusing on equipment, space, marketing, or working capital needs.
- 03Contact the service centre to apply for both the PME MTL loan and the Young Business Grant simultaneously.
- 04Submit your application and attend any required interviews or reviews.
- 05Upon approval, receive the loan and the non-repayable grant funds.
Who to ask: Contact your local PME MTL service centre.
Before you apply
Your application will likely need written quotes
Programs like this usually ask for written estimates for the work before they approve anything, and some require as many as three. BBN Labs works with you on this: we prepare a quote for the work this program funds — scope, costs and timelines you can put straight into your application. Free, no obligation.
Get my quote for this program →Documents commonly required
- Business plan detailing the use of funds (equipment, space, marketing, working capital).
- Financial projections and personal financial statements.
- Proof of business registration and location on the Island of Montreal.
- Confirmation of full-time founder involvement.
How BBN Labs helps
- BBN designs your storefront signage and coordinates qualified partners for installation, creating a professional look that draws customers to your new space.
- BBN builds your business website and online ordering system, giving your venture a digital home that turns visitors into paying customers.
- BBN launches your digital marketing campaigns and sets up Local SEO, putting your brand in front of the right local audience from day one.
- BBN guides you through the application and loan pairing process so you don't lose the funding.
What to know before you count on it
- This is not standalone funding; you must qualify for and receive a PME MTL loan to get the grant.
- It is generally taxable income; ask your accountant how this affects your net revenue.
- Selection is discretionary and competitive; having a solid business plan and full-time founder involvement is critical.
- Exact eligibility thresholds for business age (e.g., under five years) should be confirmed with the local service centre.
What are your odds?
Approval depends on the viability of your business plan and your ability to service the accompanying loan; it is not guaranteed.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to pay this back?
No, it is a non-repayable grant. However, you must take a separate loan from PME MTL to qualify.
Is the grant taxable?
Generally, yes. Grants are often treated as taxable income. Confirm with your accountant.
Can I apply if I am not on the Island of Montreal?
No, this program is specifically for start-ups operating on the Island of Montreal.
What if I don't want a loan?
You cannot receive this grant without simultaneously securing a PME MTL loan.
Related BBN services
Branding, Print & Promotional Materials
Logos, brand guidelines, menus, cards and print that match your storefront. One consistent identity everywhere.
Reviews, QR & NFC Tools
Review cards, NFC stands and QR systems that make happy customers act. Private feedback routes to you first.
Digital Menu Boards & Signage Systems
Managed menu screens with cloud updates, breakfast-to-dinner scheduling and a design service. A bare TV on the wall does none of that.
Loyalty Programs & CRM
Know your customers and bring them back: databases, loyalty mechanics, email/SMS and gift cards that fit your counter.
What you can combine it with
Can be combined with the Fonds PME MTL loan; check with your advisor for other local solidarity funds.
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BDC Financing — Working Capital Term Loan
Secure the cash you need for inventory, hiring, or daily operations without draining your current funds.
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Worth reading before you apply
Get alerted when this changes
Programs open and close, budgets run out, rules change. We send one short email when something changes that matters for this program.
Record last updated ; last verified today with the official source. Source: official program page.