Five flagships of the Quebec economy partner with the Board of Trade of
Metropolitan Montreal

MONTREAL , Oct. 16 /CNW Telbec/ - The Board of Trade of Metropolitan Montreal is pleased to introduce its five pillar sponsors for the year 2009-2010: Astral Media Inc., Bell Canada , Desjardins Group, Hydro-Québec and Rio Tinto Alcan.

"Our five pillar sponsors are leading players in the city's economic development and influence," said Board of Trade of Metropolitan Montreal President and CEO, Michel Leblanc . "Astral Media, Bell Canada , Desjardins Group, Hydro-Québec and Rio Tinto Alcan are all concrete examples of success and models of involvement in the community. We are very pleased about this new strategic partnership that will help create value for the Board of Trade's members and the metropolitan area in general."

"For several years now, the Board of Trade has wanted to offer the business community a concrete way to get involved in creating a surge of pride in the city's dynamism. The status of Board of Trade pillar sponsor is new and was created to bring together companies that are influential in our economy and that feel strongly about Montréal's development. The enthusiastic response of the five pillar sponsors demonstrates their desire to make a difference and contribute to the city's prosperity. The Board of Trade is privileged to be able to count on these elite players who share an exciting vision of the future of Montréal. Together, we will launch a major annual campaign that will be a call for mobilization and confidence in the extraordinary potential of our city," added Mr. Leblanc .

Visit the Board of Trade's Web site to find out about its services: www.createursdaffaires.com.

The Board of Trade of Metropolitan Montreal has some 7,000 members. Its primary mission is to represent the interests of the business community of Greater Montréal and to provide individuals, merchants, and local businesses of all sizes with a variety of specialized services to help them achieve their full potential in terms of innovation, productivity and competitiveness. The Board of Trade is Quebec's leading private economic development organization.

For further information: Sylvie Paquette, Coordinator, Media relations, Board of Trade of Metropolitan Montreal, [phone], ext. 4015, [email protected]