Small Businesses

A Select Offering in All Regions

Ensuring that small businesses have access to the financing required for their growth has always been one of the Caisse’s priorities. These companies are an important component of economic activity and reflect the entrepreneurial spirit that exists throughout Québec.

A Strategic Partnership
In January 2010, the Caisse entered into a partnership with Desjardins Group, in collaboration with Capital régional et coopératif Desjardins, to support the growth and development of promising small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) in Québec. For more information.

Small businesses spanning all Québec regions now have access to an enhanced long-term offering to face the challenges of global markets and undertake projects with good profitability prospects, such as expansions, research and development, acquisitions and optimization of productivity. To meet their financing needs of less than $3 million, they can visit any branch of the Desjardins Group network throughout Québec. Financing will be provided primarily in the form of subordinated loans.

SUPPORT FOR OVER 300 BUSINESSES
In 2003, the Caisse teamed up with the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) to set up the AlterInvest fund and ensure its financing offering to small businesses. Its partnership with the BDC resulted in investments totalling more than $250 million in over 300 companies. AlterInvest has reached its maximum limit and is being disinvested.