The initiative spans industries from manufacturing to telecommunications
La Caisse has renewed its AI Expertise Program, offering Quebec companies specialized support to integrate artificial intelligence into their operations and boost productivity.
The program, powered by Vooban, was launched last year and has already supported approximately 20 companies across Quebec’s diverse economic sectors, a news release noted.
“Renewing the program shows La Caisse’s commitment to making the expertise of its partner network available to local companies to support Québec’s economic development,” said Kim Thomassin, executive vice-president and head of Québec at La Caisse. “In collaboration with Vooban, we work with Québec companies to find the most promising opportunities and help them move quickly by deploying solutions that have a strong impact on efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness.”
Supporting companies pursuing AI
The renewal comes amid broader signs that Quebec businesses are adopting advanced AI technologies at a rapid pace. A 2024 survey by KPMG Canada found that 76% of organizations in the province have implemented generative AI, with almost half of adopters reporting full integration of the technology into core operations. Nine in 10 respondents described AI as very important to competitive advantage – a rate above the national average.
The first edition of the AI Expertise Program served companies spanning multiple industries, including insurance, distribution, environment, engineering, manufacturing, services, technology, telecommunications, and transportation. These organizations came from various regions throughout the province.
According to La Caisse, the renewed program maintains its structured approach, designed to accelerate companies from initial analysis through implementation. An innovation sprint running from April to September forms the core of the initiative, combining two key phases: a diagnostic phase identifying where AI and automation can generate the most value, followed by development of a feasible project plan.
Projects emerging from the program vary widely in scope and application. Companies might develop predictive tools or improve assembly-line efficiency, among other possibilities. Each participant receives a comprehensive plan detailing the recommended solution and estimated return on investment. The program is designed to deliver results within a timeframe generally under two years.
The renewal coincides with recent policy changes in Quebec aimed at stimulating technology investment. In its 2025–26 budget, the provincial government announced it will replace the existing tax credit for the development of e-business (CDAE) with a new credit targeting e-business that integrates AI as part of broader efforts to support high-value innovation activities.
Meeting criteria
Companies seeking to participate must meet specific criteria. Eligible organizations need minimum annual sales of $25 million and must be headquartered in Quebec. Applicants must demonstrate capacity to mobilize both operational and leadership teams throughout the program’s duration.
Additionally, companies must show the financial capacity and organizational readiness to invest in and execute an innovation project with significant potential for productivity improvement. The program targets projects involving low- to moderate-technological risk.
Interested companies can submit applications through La Caisse’s website.
