Crowdfunding is a process through which an individual or a business can raise small amounts of money from a large number of people, typically via the Internet. The objective is to raise sufficient funds in order to carry out a specific project.

Securities crowdfunding is when a business raises funds by issuing debt securities (such as bonds) or securities giving the right to participate in future profits (such as shares). In Québec, issuing securities offered to the public is subject to legal and financial obligations.

The Autorité des marchés financiers has adopted registration and prospectus exemptions that allow companies to use securities crowdfunding to raise capital, subject to certain conditions.