Gatineau: a key player in Quebec’s economy

Minister Mélanie Joly announces more than $1.5M in support from Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions for an organization and a group of businesses based in Gatineau

Quebec’s future and economic recovery depend on the strength of its businesses and organizations. For many years now, the Government of Canada has been committed to supporting these businesses and organizations for the ultimate benefit of Quebecers.

The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages, visited the Outaouais region today to announce a total of $1,553,448 in financial assistance. (Details on support for ID Gatineau) This funding will help expand the entrepreneurial ecosystem and allow recipients to continue operating despite the impact of the health crisis.

Five forward‑looking projects to strengthen the local economy

The Outaouais region is home to hundreds of dynamic entrepreneurs and organizations with innovative ideas, which help stimulate their communities by creating high‑quality jobs and boosting the local economy.

With this in mind, CED is providing $1,263,448 in support to five projects related to business start‑up and growth and international marketing.

Additional information on the projects is provided in the related backgrounder.

Quotes

“Across the country, local businesses are contributing to the recovery of our economy. We therefore consider it a top priority to help them innovate to increase their competitiveness and create jobs for Quebecers. With today’s announcement, our message is clear: we are taking concrete action to support Quebec and are working with local businesses to create jobs for Quebecers and relaunch our economy.”

The Honourable Mélanie Joly, MP for Ahuntsic-Cartierville, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for CED 

“Gatineau is home to an outstanding business community whose dynamic nature is not only a source of pride, but also a source of vitality and development for our community. The Government of Canada is determined to support innovation and growth, help local businesses export their products, and encourage the creation of high‑quality jobs in the Outaouais region.”

Steven MacKinnon, MP for Gatineau and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Public Services and Procurement

Quick facts

• The Honourable Mélanie Joly is the Minister responsible for the six regional development agencies (RDAs), including CED.

• CED is the key federal partner for regional economic development in Quebec. With 12 regional business offices, CED helps businesses, support organizations and the regions of Quebec to prepare for the economy of tomorrow. 

• The repayable contributions made to the five SMEs were awarded under the Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program, which aims to help Quebec’s SMEs expand through innovation.