What is the RTRI?
The Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI) is a Government of Canada program for businesses affected by U.S. tariffs. In Quebec, it is delivered by Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED). It is part of a national tariff response plan of $3.45 billion, according to CED.
What changed in 2026?
- May 4, 2026: the government announced $500 million more for the RTRI, delivered by the regional development agencies, to fund market diversification and productivity improvements.
- August 25, 2026: $1.5 billion more. The non-repayable contribution cap rises from $1 million to $3 million, and the program now covers demonstrated liquidity needs, up to $2 million, in addition to pivot and capital investment projects.
- Current recipients: according to CED, they can apply for liquidity support starting no earlier than August 22, 2026, for up to 12 months, with no duplication of funding already received.
Who can apply in Quebec?
CED asks, among other things, for:
- An incorporated for-profit business operating in Quebec.
- Revenue of at least $1 million in one of the last two fiscal years.
- A business that was viable before March 21, 2025.
- Demonstrated tariff exposure: operations in an affected sector, at least 25% of revenue from exports to the United States, or a significant cost increase, supply chain disruption or revenue loss tied to tariffs.
Quebec not-for-profit organizations whose main role is to support businesses are also eligible, but not for liquidity assistance.
What funding, for which expenses?
Liquidity support: non-repayable contribution of up to $2 million and up to 50% of eligible costs, over a maximum of 12 months, ending no later than March 31, 2028. Covered expenses: salaries, rent, utilities, business insurance and property taxes.
Pivot projects: non-repayable contribution of up to $1 million (50% of costs), and an interest-free repayable contribution above $1 million (75% of costs). Projects must end no later than March 31, 2029. Covered expenses: productivity and modernization, equipment, technology, automation, digitization, market diversification and export development, supply chain resilience.
Possible total: up to $3 million non-repayable by combining liquidity and pivot, and up to $20 million when repayable support is included.
How do you apply?
CED accepts applications on an ongoing basis, with no deadline shown on its page. If you are already a client, contact your advisor. Otherwise, write or call CED: it generally replies within one business day. Prepare your documents ahead of time: company information, two years of financial statements, evidence of the tariff impact, payroll records, cash flow forecasts and a list of the government assistance you have received.
Another tool for some manufacturers
On May 4, 2026, the government also announced a $1 billion Business Development Bank of Canada program for manufacturers and exporters of goods containing steel, aluminum or copper that are affected by U.S. tariffs in effect since April 6, 2026.
What strengthens a file
Quantify the impact: revenue drop, cost increase or share of U.S. sales, with supporting documents. Describe clearly what the project changes (new markets, productivity) and when it ends. Each application is assessed by CED and no amount is guaranteed.
Having your eligibility assessed
If your business is affected by tariffs, a quick review shows whether the RTRI applies and which mix of liquidity support and pivot project makes sense. At Hubvention, we help you build the file. Book my diagnostic →