Quebec’s 2026–2027 Budget: Key Challenges for Entrepreneurship in Quebec

Published on March 25, 2026

MAIN has reviewed all of the pre-budget briefs submitted by stakeholders in the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Here you will find our analysis of the main demands and challenges identified, as well as some of the responses provided by the organizations.

The five main areas of demands
drawn from 30 briefs 

Simplification : The CCMM, the FCEI , and the CCIQ identify the administrative burdens as a problem. Call for a centralized registry of aid programs and a one-stop shop.

Emergency Business Takeovers : Organizations FCCQ, RJCCQ, Evol, La Ruche, the FCEI have identified business succession as a top priority. It is estimated that 50,000 business business transfers by 2029. Call for matching funds to support business succession and the removal of tax barriers.

Productivity & AI : AQT, CEGQ and HelloDarwin are calling for targeted support for the adoption of AI and the preservation of innovation hubs.

Inclusion : Organizations such as Evol and OSEntreprendre are advocating for a student entrepreneur status and greater inclusion of minorities in entrepreneurship and small business financing.

Protection: The Need for a Shield Against U.S. Tariffs.

What the budget states

Industrial Initiative ($1.7 billion over 5 years): Focus on critical minerals, defense, and manufacturing.

Innovation & AI ($283 million): Direct funding to promote the adoption of artificial intelligence, develop innovation hubs, and establish a joint research unit in quantum photonics

Administrative Streamlining: Bill No. 5, aimed at expediting environmental permits for strategic projects
Tax Policy Maintained: Extension of the C3i (Investment Tax Credit) and other tax credits

Regional Vitality: Funding for Niche Areas of Excellence and the DÉPART Program.

Intellectual Property: $17 million over three years (Axelys)

Some of the organizations' reactions

The Chamber of Commerce of Metropolitan Montreal (CCMM) : generally satisfied with the cautious approach and the decision to maintain the target of returning to a balanced budget. The CCMM recommends protecting Quebec’s credit rating and focusing on growth sectors (energy, defense, minerals). It emphasizes the need to reduce overregulation.

The Quebec Technology Association (AQT) : sees this as a step in the right direction for the technology sector. The AQT advocates for better tax planning for the integration of artificial intelligence (through flexibility in the CDAE-IA).

The Canadian Council of Innovators (CCI) : believes the government lacks boldness. The CCI recommends using public procurement to support local innovation and calls for a genuine strategy for AI adoption within the government and greater digital sovereignty.

The Federation of Quebec Chambers of Commerce (FCCQ) : Dissatisfied, it calls it a “missed opportunity” to stimulate investment. The FCCQ is calling for a structural reduction in the tax rate rather than targeted programs. There is a need for predictability and visibility in the management of major infrastructure projects.

The Association of Young Chambers of Commerce of Quebec (RJCCQ) : is satisfied with the overall economic policy direction. However, the RJCCQ emphasizes business succession and support for young business successors through increased funding for development funds (FDE and FCEQ).

The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) : strongly dissatisfied, deems the budget “lackluster” for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The CFIB advocates for broad-based tax and administrative relief (including a reduction in the carbon tax). It opposes interventionism that “picks winners” instead of supporting the entire entrepreneurial ecosystem.

What's next? The major challenges facing the ecosystem

1. Demographic Shock and business succession

Without new dedicated funding, the ecosystem must rely on mentoring and private funding to prevent the loss of local flagship businesses. No entrepreneurs, no buyers.

2. Making AI Accessible to Small Organizations

Since funding is directed toward cutting-edge projects, we need to develop low-cost or collaborative AI integration solutions for SMEs. Access to a skilled main and the complexity of the programs pose a barrier.

3. Diversifying our markets and improving our competitiveness

Quebec companies must quickly diversify their export markets and modernize their operations in the face of tariff threats, which are putting immense pressure ontheir cash flow.