Support for Social Economy Mutualization Projects

Overview of the Support for Social Economy Mutualization Projects program:

Managed by Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED), this program supports mutualisation projects—collaborative efforts between multiple social economy organisations—to share or combine services, infrastructure, or resources. The aim is to increase operational efficiency, financial resilience, and community impact while fostering innovation and inclusiveness within Quebec’s social economy sector. The program is designed for non-profit organisations and cooperatives that work together to address common challenges, such as limited capacity or high operating costs. Projects may include shared equipment, digital platforms, distribution networks, or facilities that benefit several organisations simultaneously. By helping these organisations pool their strengths and streamline services, the initiative promotes long-term sustainability, increased competitiveness, and more efficient service delivery. Funding is provided through non-repayable contributions, allowing eligible groups to launch or scale collaborative solutions without incurring debt. This initiative aligns with the federal strategy to strengthen social innovation and inclusive growth across Quebec's regions. It is part of a broader effort to make the social economy a driver of regional economic development and transformation. Projects must demonstrate a clear benefit to the participating organisations, and preference is given to initiatives that create jobs, serve disadvantaged populations, or build capacity in underserved communities. CED encourages early discussions with its advisors to help shape proposals that align with program goals.

Benefits of the Support for Social Economy Mutualization Projects program:

• Supports collaboration between social economy organisations
• Encourages resource-sharing and cost-efficiency
• Enhances financial sustainability of social enterprises
• Promotes the development of shared infrastructure or services
• Strengthens collective capacity and innovation
• Enables better service delivery to local and underserved communities
• Reduces duplication of efforts across similar organisations
• Helps foster inclusive economic development in Quebec

Eligibility criteria of the Support for Social Economy Mutualization Projects program:

• Eligible applicants and projects must meet the following criteria:
• Location: Based in Quebec
• Eligible Applicants:
• Non-profit organisations
• Cooperatives operating in the social economy sector
• Project Scope:
• Projects that involve at least two or more organisations working together
• Development of shared resources, facilities, tools, or services
• Must demonstrate mutual benefit and collective impact
• Can involve digital platforms, infrastructure, logistics systems, or back-office integration
• Impact Requirements:
• Improve productivity or reduce operating costs
• Strengthen organisational capacity
• Contribute to job creation or retention
• Serve disadvantaged or marginalised communities
• Other Conditions:
• Applicants must be in good standing
• Must demonstrate a sound plan, collaborative governance, and measurable outcomes
• CED advisors should be consulted early in the process