APECA — Croissance économique régionale par l'innovation ### 📋 Eligible Entities - Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating in Atlantic Canada (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador) - For-profit businesses across various sectors - Businesses with demonstrated capacity to implement proposed projects - Enterprises seeking to expand operations, adopt innovation, or diversify markets - Businesses with viable business plans and realistic financial projections ### 💰 Funding Details - Grant size: Typically ranges from $25,000 to $500,000+ (varies by project scope and strategic alignment) - Matching requirement: Generally requires 50% cost-sharing from applicant or other sources (non-APECA funds) - Repayability: Non-repayable grant (contribution basis, not a loan) - Funding ratio: APECA covers up to 50% of eligible project costs - Payment structure: Funds typically disbursed upon project milestones and submission of supporting documentation ### 🛠️ Approved Expenses - Business expansion and capacity building activities - Technology adoption and implementation - Innovation process development and commercialization - Market diversification and market development initiatives - Equipment and machinery purchases (if directly tied to expansion/productivity) - Professional consulting and feasibility studies - Training and skills development for employees - Product or service development - Digital transformation and e-commerce initiatives - Sustainable business practice implementation ### ⚠️ Conditions & Milestones - Application deadline: Multiple intake periods throughout the year (check APECA website for current deadlines) - Project timeline: Typically 12–36 months depending on project scope - Matching funds requirement: Applicant must secure and document 50% of total project costs from eligible sources - Business plan submission: Detailed project proposal with clear objectives, timelines, and financial projections required - Progress reporting: Regular milestone reports and financial documentation required throughout project duration - Eligibility verification: Business must be in good standing, with no outstanding government obligations - Job creation/retention: Preference given to projects demonstrating employment benefits or economic impact