Quebec’s government announced on July 14 an additional investment of $24 million aimed at strengthening the province’s forest industry. The funding package was presented alongside a modernized version of the Wood Innovation Program, the provincial initiative that supports research and development in forestry.
The $24 million allocation is intended to bolster ongoing projects and stimulate new initiatives across the forest sector. By increasing financial resources, the government seeks to enhance the competitiveness of Quebec’s timber and wood‑product businesses, as well as to encourage the adoption of innovative technologies.
The Wood Innovation Program, which has been operating under the province’s economic development strategy, provides grants and support to companies, research institutions and other stakeholders engaged in forestry‑related R&D. The recent modernization of the program is designed to streamline application procedures, expand eligibility criteria and align funding priorities with emerging market trends. While specific details of the updated framework were not disclosed, the changes are expected to improve access to capital for a broader range of projects.
Officials highlighted that the forest sector remains a cornerstone of Quebec’s economy, contributing significantly to employment and export revenues. The additional investment and program overhaul are positioned as part of a longer‑term effort to diversify the industry, promote sustainable practices and foster innovation in areas such as advanced wood products, bio‑materials and digital forestry solutions.
The announcement follows a series of provincial initiatives aimed at supporting key industries through targeted financial support. By reinforcing the Wood Innovation Program and injecting new funds, Quebec aims to maintain its leadership in the North American forest market and to ensure that local firms can compete globally.
Stakeholders in the forestry community are expected to submit proposals under the revised program in the coming months, with the government indicating that the new funding will be allocated as applications are approved.