The Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec is introducing a program that will steer investment capital toward Quebec companies launching projects that increase productivity or open up new markets.
According to a press release, the financing, which is supplemental to the Caisse’s existing programs, will allow qualifying companies to finance their investment projects without increasing debt or immediately diluting their capital.
The move comes amid the threat of tariffs by the U.S. government that has led to calls for Canada to further diversify its business and trade relationships to reduce dependence on the U.S. market. In February, U.S. President Donald Trump announced he’ll impose 25 per cent tariffs on a host of products, from steel and aluminum imports to automobiles, pharmaceuticals and computer chips, entering the U.S.
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Earlier this year, the Trump administration delayed plans to impose 25 per cent tariffs on all Canadian goods for 30 days; however, that pause is expected to be lifted in March. He’s also ordered a study to determine which countries should be charged reciprocal tariffs to be completed April 1.
“We must take the current context as a call to action and use it to mobilize like never before,” said Charles Emond, the Caisse’s president and chief executive officer, in the release. “Whether or not the tariffs materialize, it’s time to leverage all the know-how of our companies to drive Quebec forward. CDPQ will be there to finance productivity-boosting projects and help companies diversify their markets.”
In an emailed statement to Benefits Canada, a Caisse spokesperson said the program aims to stimulate private investments and new projects that would otherwise be postponed at a time when they’re most needed.
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The funding will provide support for companies looking to explore new markets to diversify their client base, suppliers or operations by connecting them with its roster of 5,000 portfolio companies and business partners in 70 countries. Indeed, the organization said it will partner with technology company Vooban, one of its investee companies, to fuel innovation in the artificial intelligence sector by financially backing the most promising projects. A call for projects is expected to launch in the coming weeks.
While there isn’t a pre-set amount or budget set aside for the program, investment decisions will be based on opportunities as they arise and fit the Caisse’s objectives to stimulate growth and productivity, while generating returns for clients, said the spokesperson.
“Our dedicated Quebec team will review the opportunities and connect with our teams around the world to leverage our global network and support companies in their international growth projects.”
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