Government of Canada Backs Estrie Region's Economic Growth Initiatives

21 Oct, 2023

Government of Canada Backs Estrie Region's Economic Growth Initiatives

Today, the Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Member of Parliament for Hochelaga, Minister of Tourism, and Minister responsible for CED, along with the Honourable Pascale St‑Onge, Member of Parliament for Brome‑Missisquoi and Minister of Canadian Heritage, unveiled CED's support for Stûv America and L'Atelier Märk Lumber, contributing to economic development in Quebec's regions.

Stûv America, known for its wood stoves and fireplaces, is set to receive a repayable contribution of $235,000. This financial boost will facilitate the acquisition of a robotic welder and a pallet‑flow rack, significantly enhancing production capacity. This, in turn, will help meet existing demand and expand exports to the U.S.

L'Atelier Märk Lumber, specializing in the manufacturing of baseball bats for both the baseball elite and enthusiasts in North America, is also set to benefit from a repayable contribution of $210,000. These funds will enable the acquisition of a high‑performance, versatile wood lathe, poised to triple production, alongside a dust collector to improve workplace safety and efficiency for employees.

The Government of Canada places a strong emphasis on recognizing and supporting businesses and organizations that serve as sources of pride within their communities. These organizations, deeply rooted in the regional economy, play a vital role in Quebec's economic growth, contributing significantly to the development of a stronger, more

resilient, environmentally conscious, and equitable economy.

Quotes from the officials:

"Our government believes in our small businesses, and we invest in them. That is why CED is supporting projects such as those by Stûv America and L'Atelier Märk Lumber. Leveraging their assets is essential for an inclusive recovery. These projects will create good local jobs here at home, and I am looking forward to seeing the impacts they will have in the years ahead."

The funding has been granted through CED's Regional Economic Growth through Innovation program, which aims to support entrepreneurs who employ innovation to grow their businesses and enhance competitiveness. Additionally, it assists regional

economic stakeholders in fostering an entrepreneurial environment conducive to innovation and growth across all regions. In Quebec, SMEs make up 99.7% of the province's businesses and contribute 50% to its GDP.

CED plays a pivotal role as the federal partner in Quebec's regional economic development, operating through its 12 regional business offices to accompany businesses, support organizations, and contribute to the economic development of all regions across Quebec.