Écotech Québec focuses on the Brazilian market - Cooperation agreement between Québec and the State of São Paulo

SÃO PAULO, Brazil, April 12, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - Écotech Québec, which represents the Québec cleantech cluster, welcomes the agreement signed today by the Premier of Québec Jean Charest and Governor Geraldo Alckmin of the State of São Paulo. This agreement confirms the creation of an alliance between the two regions to increase and accelerate cleantech development and commercialization opportunities.  The agreement was signed in conjunction with the Conference of Heads of Government of Partner Regions, which is being held in São Paulo this year. 

Écotech Québec will coordinate the activities of the new alliance, which aims to open this market to Québec companies and innovators.  "We want to expand business opportunities so Québec innovators can take advantage of this very promising market," noted Denis Leclerc, President and CEO of Écotech Québec. "We believe that this alliance will be a perfect springboard for companies and researchers working towards a green economy." 

The agreement is the outcome of a mission undertaken last fall by Monique Gagnon-Tremblay, Minister of International Relations, and Écotech Québec.  The mission was an opportunity to quickly build relationships with public officials in São Paulo and share green economy goals, thereby highlighting the potential for partnerships between the two regions in the cleantech sector. 

"Thanks to this alliance, the State of São Paulo, with its population of 40 million, will not only become one of our preferred partners, it will also become our gateway to the South American market," added Mr. Leclerc. 

Écotech Québec is also happy and proud that the State of São Paulo has chosen to enter into its first such partnership with Québec.  "This shows that Québec has expertise in the main niche areas they need to reach their goals, particularly in the fields of waste management, energy efficiency and water treatment," concluded Mr. Leclerc. 

Denis Leclerc
President and CEO
Écotech Québec
Mob.: [phone]
[email protected]