In short: financial assistance for agricultural advisory services in Quebec covers 50 % to 75 % eligible fees (up to 65 % with the organic bonus). Caps apply depending on the activity and region, and other programs such as Prime-Vert may provide additional support. This assistance is provided through the Réseau Agriconseils, as part of the advisory services program.
In this article:
How much does the financial aid cover?
The aid rate is calculated on the eligible fees of the consulting service:
| Situation | Aid rate |
|---|---|
| Advisory Services (General) | 50 % |
| Agroecology | 75 % |
| Bonification (pre-certification or organic certification) | +15 %, up to 65 % |
Specifically, for a general service billed at 1,000 $, the subsidy covers approximately 500 $; for an agroecology service, up to 750 $. The remainder is paid by the company.
Is there a maximum amount?
Yes. Caps apply, and they vary by activity and region. Some activities are capped at a few thousand dollars, while the maximum can reach 40 000 $ for the duration of the program (2023-2028) in certain cases, particularly for next-generation businesses or those undergoing organic certification.
As each Agri-Conseils network publishes its own annual financial aid offer, the safest bet is to verify the limits applicable to your situation with your regional network.
What consulting services are eligible for assistance?
A wide range: business management, agri-environment and agroecology, crop and livestock production, farm takeover and startup. Specific eligibility depends on the regional offer. For the complete operation of the program, see our guide advisory services program.
What other assistance complements the program?
The advisory services program is not alone. Depending on your projects, other assistance from the Government of Quebec may be added:
- Cowslip (Sustainable Agriculture Plan): Support for agri-environmental projects, such as equipment and measures to reduce pesticide-related risks, up to 50 % with a possible bonus, and a maximum of 40,000 $ for the duration of the initiative.
- AgroPerformance Initiative support for the technological and climatic performance of farms.
- La Financière agricole (FADQ): financing and insurance, another form of support, distinct from advisory service subsidies but useful to know.
How to maximize the help received?
A few reflexes make a difference. First, always go through your Réseau Agriconseils: it administers the aid, so without this entry point you won't receive any reimbursement. Next, combine eligible programs when permitted; accumulation rules vary, so have your case validated. Finally, document your farm well, because many applications and follow-ups require clear data such as soil tests, yields, and interventions.
This is where My forage system (MSF) Help: by centralizing your farm's data, you can more easily justify your requests and get the most out of every hour of funded consulting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do I have to pay out of pocket?
From 25 % to 50 % of the fees, depending on the applicable subsidy rate (50 %, 75 %, or up to 65 % with the organic bonus).
Can I combine multiple programs?
Sometimes. Depending on current programs and rules, some aid can be combined while others cannot. Your Réseau Agriconseils can review your situation.
Who pays the aid?
The Réseau Agriconseils administers the assistance for components 1 and 2 of the consulting services program; the funding comes from the MAPAQ.
Until when is this aid offered?
The current framework of the program covers the 2023-2028 period.
In summary
Financial assistance for agricultural consulting services in Quebec covers a significant portion of the cost—ranging from 50 % to 75 %, and sometimes even more with the organic bonus—and can be supplemented by other programs such as Prime-Vert. By working through your Agriconseils Network and keeping your farm data well organized, you can turn this financial assistance into practical support without straining your budget.