DEC — Initiative régionale pour l'innovation dans la construction résidentielle (CERI) ### 📋 Eligible Entities - Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the manufacturing sector - Non-profit organizations (NPOs/OBNLs) engaged in innovation activities - Businesses operating within DEC's regional jurisdiction (Eastern Townships and select areas of Quebec) - Companies actively developing solutions for the residential multi-unit construction sector - Suppliers and firms within the residential construction supply chain - Must demonstrate capacity to commercialize or implement innovative solutions ### 💰 Funding Details - Grant structure: Non-repayable financial contribution (grant, not a loan) - Funding amount: Typically ranges from $25,000 to $150,000+ per project (exact amounts depend on project scope and complexity) - Matching contribution requirement: Generally requires 20-50% co-financing from the applicant or partners - Co-financing sources may include: - Private investment or company cash - Partner contributions (in-kind or financial) - Other government programs - Payment schedule: Funds typically disbursed upon approval and milestone completion, with final payment upon project conclusion ### 🛠️ Approved Expenses - Research & Development (R&D) activities related to innovative construction solutions - Salaries and labour costs for project team members and specialized personnel - Technology acquisition and adoption (software, hardware, digital tools) - Materials and prototyping for solution development - Testing, validation, and certification of innovative products or processes - Professional services (engineering, design, consulting related to the project) - Equipment purchase or rental necessary for innovation activities - Training and capacity building related to innovation implementation - Commercialization preparation and market readiness activities - Solutions addressing housing construction challenges, supply chain efficiency, or residential building innovation ### ⚠️ Conditions & Milestones - Project timeline: Typically 12-24 months from approval to completion - Innovation requirement: Solution must demonstrate clear innovation (new or significantly improved) for the residential construction sector - **Regional focus