AquaEntrepreneur is open to companies incorporated in Quebec that are developing innovative solutions in the water sector. Applicants must:

• Have a technology that is ready to be deployed in a real-world environment, and whose Minimum Viable Product (MVP) is ready to be commercialized. (TRL 7+) Click here to find out more about Technology maturity levels.
• Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of your target audience
• Be able to clearly explain the value proposition and how the solution addresses the needs of the target audience.
• Demonstrate strong growth potential with an established business model validated by potential customers ("customer discovery" method)
• Demonstrate reliable sales projections
• Generate revenues of less than CAD 5 million annually.

We support companies for whom water is a strategic issue, whether at the heart of their processes, products, services, or solutions. If your business aims to reduce, reuse, recycle, or recover water, or to detect and/or eliminate pathogens (bacteria, viruses, toxic algae, etc.) or contaminants such as PFAS, you may be eligible for our support.

Some examples of areas of intervention include:

• Water treatment and management

• Monitoring technologies, smart sensors, and IoT

• Water infrastructure and climate adaptation

• Optimization of the water footprint in industrial processes

• Solutions for agriculture and agri-food

• Municipal management and technologies for smart cities

• Blue energy and hydroelectric innovations...

We target the following sectors and more:

• Municipal markets and regional partnerships

• Energy

• Manufacturing

• Mining

• Fashion and textiles

• Construction

• Healthcare

• Agriculture and AgTech

• Pulp and paper

• Food and beverages

If your company offers innovative water-related solutions for any of these sectors, your project may be eligible.

• Over 30 hours of personalized coaching with industry experts.

• Support in securing pilot projects and commercial contracts.

• Opportunity to participate in international trade missions.

• Preparation of an ISO-compliant water and/or carbon impact report.

• Increased visibility through strategic events and partnerships.

The program lasts 10 months and offers structured support:

• Initial assessment to identify the company's specific needs.

• Personalized coaching with experts in business, technology and financing.

• Connections with potential customers, investors and partners.

• Participation in strategic events and marketing opportunities.

The program is entirely free thanks to the support of MEIE and our partners, but a $250 registration fee is required if your application is selected. 

When you complete the AquaEntrepreneur program, you become a member of the AquaNation. This growing community brings together water technology leaders, innovators, and experts committed to developing solutions in North America and offers support and strategic opportunities to its members.

Visit the video section of this page to learn more about the program, its benefits, and the types of solutions supported by the program. You can also visit the Portfolio page on our website for all AquaNation solutions.

1. Submission of applications via the form

2. Evaluation of applications

3. Presentation of eligible companies to the selection committee

4. Selection by our selection committee

5. Final decision by the committee and communication of results by email to all candidates

According to the agreement with the Ministry of Economy, Innovation, and Energy, as well as the Charter of the French Language (RLRQ, chapter C-11), most activities will be offered in French only.