Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

In a strategic effort to spur economic growth and innovation in Quebec’s Outaouais region, the
Canadian government is injecting close to $2 million into four local businesses in Gatineau. The
funding, delivered through Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED), is
aimed at expanding production, fostering innovation, and bolstering the local economy.

This initiative underscores the government’s ongoing commitment to regional economic
development, with a focus on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are seen as
crucial engines of local growth. The announcement was made by Steven MacKinnon, Member
of Parliament for Gatineau and Minister of Labour and Seniors, alongside Stéphane Lauzon, MP
for Argenteuil—La Petite-Nation, representing Minister of Tourism Soraya Martinez Ferrada.
The financial support, which amounts to $1.75 million in repayable contributions, targets four
distinct businesses that have become pillars in their respective sectors.

La Trappe à Fromage de l’Outaouais , a well-established local producer known for its artisanal
cheeses, will receive $750,000 to expand its production facility. This expansion is not only
expected to boost output but also to meet increasing demand for its products across the region,
cementing its reputation as a local culinary staple.

Precision Portes et Moulures , a manufacturer of doors and mouldings, has been awarded
$600,000 to construct a new factory and acquire cutting-edge production equipment. The
investment is poised to enhance the company’s production capabilities and competitiveness,
enabling it to better serve both the local market and beyond.

On the agritourism front, Courges & cie , a popular farm offering a range of activities for visitors,
will use its $250,000 in funding to diversify its tourist attractions. Central to this expansion is the
development of a market gardening economuseum, which will provide an educational
experience for visitors and further integrate the farm into the region’s burgeoning tourism sector.
Meanwhile, Flirt Drinks , a local beverage producer, is set to receive $150,000 to acquire
specialized equipment to scale up production. The company, known for its innovative drink
offerings, has experienced growing demand, and this investment will allow it to increase output
while continuing to deliver high-quality products.

MacKinnon highlighted the importance of such investments in fostering a collaborative
ecosystem where local businesses, government, and the community work in tandem to drive
economic development. “By investing in local businesses like La Trappe à Fromage and
Precision Portes et Moulures, we are reinforcing Gatineau’s position as a vibrant economic
hub,” said MacKinnon. “These businesses are not only contributing to the economic strength of
our region but also enhancing the quality of life for residents.”​

Lauzon echoed these sentiments, stressing the critical role that SMEs play in the fabric of local
communities. “SMEs are at the heart of our economy,” he said. “By supporting local businesses,
we are helping them grow, innovate, and continue to offer products and services that benefit
everyone.”

Soraya Martinez Ferrada, who leads CED as part of her role as Minister of Tourism,
emphasized the broader goal of preparing Canada’s regions for the economy of tomorrow. “Our
mission is to support businesses and regions in seizing the opportunities of the future,” she
said. “By investing in Quebec’s diverse regional assets, we are ensuring that local economies
thrive and remain resilient.”

Photo: The Canadian government, through Canada Economic Development for Quebec
Regions (CED), is investing nearly $2 million to support four Gatineau-based businesses,
including La Trappe à Fromage , known for its artisanal cheeses and local products like
Messicana Gourmet sauces, to boost local production, innovation, and economic growth in the
Outaouais region, with funds aimed at expanding operations and fostering regional resilience.
(TF) Photo courtesy of La Trappe à Fromage