How to Get a CRM Funded for Associations in Canada (Grants & Subsidies Guide)
- Vendere Group
- Jun 20, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: May 15
Applying for a grant can seem complex for an association, nonprofit, or chamber of commerce. Yet across Canada—especially in Quebec—many programs support structural projects, particularly those related to digital transformation.
Among these, CRM projects (membership management, automation, communications) are increasingly eligible when positioned correctly.
More and More Associations Are Funding Their CRM Through Grants
Thinking about modernizing your membership management? Discover how a CRM can integrate into your organization and transform operations.
Main Grant Programs (Quick Overview)
1. CERI – Regional Economic Growth Through Innovation
Federal program (Canada Economic Development – Quebec regions)
Supports productivity and digital transformation projects
Nonprofits eligible
Up to 90% non-repayable funding (depending on project)
2. Workforce Training Program – Services Québec
Funds training related to technology adoption
Includes nonprofits
Supports successful CRM implementation
3. Other Funding Programs (Regional & Municipal)
Local and regional programs
Can complement implementation, training, or migration costs
From Concept to Project: Funding a CRM
These programs can fund a significant portion of a CRM project—if it is structured as a productivity and modernization initiative.
In practice, funded projects often include:
automated membership renewals
centralized member data
integration with accounting and communication tools
improved member services
Want a step-by-step breakdown?
Read our complete guide: Funding a CRM Implementation for Associations (Canada & Quebec)
Real Example
A chamber of commerce may fund a CRM to:
automate membership renewals
manage invoicing and payments
integrate event ticketing
improve reporting for the board
Result: fewer manual tasks, higher retention, better visibility.
Can You Fund 100% of a CRM?
In some cases, combining multiple programs can cover a large portion:
CERI: implementation and integration
Services Québec: training
Local programs: complementary funding
Typical outcome: 70% to 90% of the project funded
What Expenses Are Eligible?
Typically eligible CRM project costs include:
configuration and setup
integrations
data migration
automation workflows
training
The key is to demonstrate impact in terms of:
productivity
data quality
member service
Considering a CRM for Your Association?
Discover how organizations like yours automate processes, centralize data, and improve member services. See Membri in action
How to Increase Your Chances of Approval
7 Best Practices Before Applying for a Grant
1. Assign a Project Owner
CRM implementation requires coordination and accountability.
2. Define a Measurable Problem
Examples:
manual renewals and churn
duplicate data entry
disconnected event systems
lack of reporting visibility
3. Describe Automations (Not Just Features)
Programs evaluate operational gains, not software specs:
automated renewals
triggered invoicing
real-time updates
4. Prepare a Clear Budget & Timeline
A structured budget and realistic timeline increase credibility.
5. Include a Communication Strategy
CRM enables segmentation and personalization of communications.
6. Plan for Change Management
Training and adoption are critical → Services Québec can support this.
7. Use Real Examples
Funders are reassured by case studies:
chambers of commerce
associations with similar needs
Choosing the Right CRM for Your Grant Application
A CRM for associations should cover:
membership & renewals
invoicing & payments
accounting integration
events & ticketing
dashboards & reporting
website integrations
Membri: A CRM Built for Associations on Microsoft 365
Membri is an association management solution built on Microsoft 365, powered by Power Apps, and compatible with Dynamics 365.
It helps associations:
reduce manual tasks (renewals, invoicing, reminders)
integrate ticketing and CRM
improve reporting for leadership
A CRM Can Be Funded—If You Position It Correctly
In Canada (especially Quebec), a CRM project is fundable when presented as:
a digital infrastructure and productivity project (CERI / DEC)
a skills development initiative (Services Québec)
The key is to demonstrate:
what is automated
how much time is saved
the measurable impact on retention, revenue, and member experience
Did You Know?
Preferential pricing exists for nonprofits on Microsoft licenses. Eligibility depends on certification under Microsoft’s nonprofit program.
Ready to plan your CRM project and funding strategy?
Book a demo with our team to identify the key elements before submitting your funding application.
FAQ – CRM Funding for Associations in Canada
Can a nonprofit association get funding for a CRM?
Yes, if the project is positioned as a productivity and digital transformation initiative.
What is the best CRM funding program in Quebec?
CERI (DEC) is often the most relevant for digital and productivity projects.
Can CRM training be funded?
Yes, through Services Québec workforce training programs.
What costs are usually eligible?
Configuration, integration, data migration, automation, and training.
Can 100% of a CRM be funded?
Rarely, but multiple programs can cover 70–90% of costs.
Want to discuss your project with one of our representatives?
Comments