News Summary

The Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec (CDPQ) has introduced a new program aimed at assisting Québec startups and businesses in increasing productivity and accessing new markets in response to potential US tariff threats. The program offers flexible financing options, without increasing debt or diluting capital, and supports technological projects through partnerships, such as with the Québec City-based applied AI startup Vooban. CDPQ intends to host a technological contest, providing funding and networking opportunities to winners. The Québec government has also pledged ‘COVID-like’ loans to businesses if tariffs are imposed and has been scrutinized for its extensive financial support to the business sector. This development comes as businesses brace for possible tariffs that could significantly impact Canadian consumer goods startups.