In late March, MRC Pontiac launched a call for structuring projects for the fonds de regions and rurality (FRR) streams two and three for 2026. The FRR is a fund distributed by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MAMH) and administered by the MRC.
MRC socio-economic development coordinator Sabrina Ayers explained that the criteria were spelled out a little differently in this funding agreement with the province, so that projects would be categorized as either one or the other.
“[Now] there are priorities that are specific to stream two and stream three,” she said. “That’s to prevent projects that are wishy-washy and could be funded through one or the other. The priorities are specific so the money isn’t used intermingling, and that we’re focusing on a clear vision for each amount.”
Out of a total three-year (2025-2028) pot of $5,138,908 for stream two and $2,824,932 for stream three, projects can receive up to $500,000 and $250,000 respectively.
These funds are available primarily for municipalities, non-profit organizations, Indigenous groups and cooperatives, however, for-profit businesses can apply for stream two. The full list of criteria are available in section six of the intervention framework (available on the MRC’s website.)
The priorities for stream two, which focuses on territory development are:
• Energizing and developing the potential of the territory’s entrepreneurial ecosystem
• Strengthening local governance, partnerships and the cultural identity of the territory
• Cultivating and solidifying the MRC’s commitment to sustainable development
• Strengthening the attractiveness of the region around our strategic assets
The priorities for stream three, which focuses on vitalization are:
• Developing opportunities to increase territorial vitalization
• Invigorating community social life and breaking social isolation
• Improving social infrastructure (outdoors, sports and recreation, culture)
Each of these priorities has planned actions and objectives that are spelled out fully in the intervention framework document (section five).
Projects are evaluated by a committee, which makes its recommendations to the council of mayors for final approval. They are also assessed and monitored upon completion to gauge impact.
To file an application, you must contact the MRC’s economic development department at développement@mrcpontiac.qc.ca or by calling 819‑648‑5689, ext. 124.
The application deadline for this call for projects closes on Apr. 30 at noon.
