Gaspé – Helping communities seize economic development and diversification opportunities and implement community infrastructure projects contributes to economic development in Quebec’s regions and fosters economic reconciliation. That is why Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for CED, along with tDiane Lebouthillier, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, today announced three non-repayable financial contributions totalling over $1,170,000 for two Indigenous communities in the Gaspésie region recognized for their contribution to the regional economy and development potential.
The recipients are the Micmacs of Gesgapegiag Band and the Listuguj Mi’gmaq Government. The allocated funds have made it possible to build sanitation facilities in a park and develop a tourism diversification strategy in Gesgapegiag, as well as build community greenhouses in Listuguj.
Further details on the three projects are available in a related backgrounder. The Government of Canada recognizes and supports businesses and organizations that are a source of pride in their communities. Quebec’s economic growth relies on organizations with strong roots in the regional economy; they are key assets in building a sustainable, inclusive economy.
Meanwhile, supporting manufacturing businesses contributes to economic development in Quebec’s regions. That is why Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for CED, and Diane Lebouthillier, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, announced a repayable contribution of $600,000 for Gestion Alter‑Direct international. This CED support will enable the business to continue to grow while also improving its productivity.
Gestion Alter-Direct international operates the Brûlerie du Quai, a business specializing in the roasting and sale of high‑quality coffee, as well as chocolate manufacturers Chaleur B Chocolat and Bassan Chocolat. CED’s financial support has enabled the SME to construct a new building and install equipment such as a new Industry 4.0 automated production line for chocolate. The business, a member of Gaspésie gourmand, has won several awards for the quality of its various chocolate-based products. Two new jobs created through this project come on top of the 40 jobs that currently exist within the business.