Deborah Powell
MUNICIPALITY OF PONTIAC – On July 19, the federal government confirmed funding of more than $86 million over the next three years for the 67 members of
the SADC (Community Futures Development Corporation) and CAE (Community Business Development Corporation) networks across Quebec.
Deborah Powell
MUNICIPALITY OF PONTIAC – On July 19, the federal government confirmed funding of more than $86 million over the next three years for the 67 members of
the SADC (Community Futures Development Corporation) and CAE (Community Business Development Corporation) networks across Quebec.
Greg Fergus, MP for Hull/Aylmer and parliamentary secretary for Innovation, Science and Economic Development, made the announcement accompanied by Pontiac MP Will Amos at Venturing Hills Farm in Luskville. A number of representatives from the SADC/CAE network were present along with elected officials and members of the business community.
“Communities are the best at coming up with their own solutions for economic development. The SADCs are the local connection, grounded in the reality of their communities, and therefore well placed to help new businesses,” said Fergus, who also emphasized the essential role played by volunteers who work with the network to support new entrepreneurs.
Amos expressed his admiration for the small and medium businesses in the Pontiac and suggested there will be more announcements coming about “help to small businesses who are ready to work hard.”
The Outaouais’ share of the provincial pie will amount to $4 million shared between the regional corporations. “Our operating budget remains the same as it was with the previous funding agreement,” said Rhonda Perry, Director General of SADC Pontiac. “However, there is $76,000 in new money given to the Pontiac for local economic development initiatives over the next three years.” Also of note was the announcement of the increase in the age limit for participating in the Youth Strategy Initiative, which has been raised from 35 to 39.
Local young agricultural entrepreneurs, Dave Ingalls and Eline Van der Veen of Eli-Da Jersey Farm in Clarendon, were on hand as proof of the timely help provided by the SADC. “The SADC provided financial support which allowed us to get the equipment we needed for start-up. Working with them was a very positive experience for us and our business,” said Ingalls.
The SADC has been working with the community for 30 years to plan and
deliver projects and programs geared at increasing employment opportunities and economic growth by providing financial, coaching and management tools to
entrepreneurs. Resources are focused on small businesses, giving them the resources and support needed for development and growth.
