Laurentides International will be able to continue supporting the region's small and medium-sized export enterprises

Government of Canada grants over $400,000 in financial assistance to support the export promotion organization

MIRABEL, QC, Oct. 11, 2018 /CNW Telbec/ - Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED)

Laurentides International will be able to continue supporting the region's companies in their exporting efforts thanks to the Government of Canada's support. Laurentides International is the regional export promotion organization (ORPEX) in the Laurentides region, and its mission is to provide advice and continued, tailored support to the region's SMEs that are interested in exporting or involved in an export project in order to succeed in international markets.

The organization will be able to count on a non-repayable contribution of $411,000 to support its activities over the next three years. Ramez Ayoub, Member of Parliament for Thérèse-De Blainville, made the announcement on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for CED.

Among other things, the ORPEXes help companies with:

• obtaining basic information on exporting;
• organizing their actions to break into foreign markets;
• getting an assessment of their ability to export;
• learning about the funding opportunities for their export projects;
• acquiring specialized training;
• developing an international business plan.

The funding, awarded under CED's Quebec Economic Development Program, will enable Laurentides International to continue offering its services to help exporters carry out their sales projects in new markets.

Quotes

"We are very enthusiastic about supporting Laurentides International, which helps the region's SMEs in their efforts to diversify and develop export markets. The activities generated by the project will benefit a number of manufacturing SMEs and value-added service companies in the area served by this organization. We have every confidence in its ability to help companies look to the future and prosper." 

Ramez Ayoub, Member of Parliament for Thérèse-De Blainville

"CED is proud to have been funding the ORPEXes since they were established in 1990. These organizations, which are unique to Quebec, help to not only achieve CED's objectives for marketing and positioning companies globally, but also achieve the ambitious goal set by the Government of Canada for increasing Canadian exports 30% by 2025. By emphasizing the importance of innovation, this renewed funding will give Quebec companies the tools to position themselves solidly in a highly competitive global ecosystem." 

The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister responsible for CED

"I am pleased with the financial support from the Government of Canada, which is choosing to focus on the desire of Canadian businesses to expand. Laurentides International promotes the entrepreneurial spirit and expertise of local SMEs, and I encourage the organization to continue along the same path."

Stéphane Lauzon, Member of Parliament for Argenteuil—La Petite-Nation

"Since 1995, Laurentides International has been contributing to the region's economic vitality through its wide range of training, coaching and consulting services offered to exporting and innovative companies. This organization is a valuable ally for entrepreneurs based in the Laurentides region, which is why we are pleased to support its development."

David Graham, Member of Parliament for Laurentides-Labelle

"The investment announced today is intended to provide tangible support for businesses in the Laurentides region looking to break into foreign markets. This contribution will ensure that Laurentides International has the necessary means to fulfill its mission, which is to assist exporters in carrying out their sales projects in new markets by providing them with services right from the outset of their export ventures."

Linda Lapointe, Member of Parliament for Rivière-des-Mille-Îles

"Most companies are aware of the range of opportunities available to them internationally. However, the challenge of exporting may seem difficult. For over 22 years, our role has been to provide all the tools and support needed for successful internationalization."

Ariel Retamal, General Manager and Export Commissioner, Laurentides International

"As an exporter, we can attest to the fact that the international trade experts at Laurentides International provide essential local support to any company wanting to do business abroad." 

Pierre Fortier, President of Laurentides International and General Manager of Palmex International

Quick facts

• The objectives of the ORPEXes include raising awareness among Quebec companies about the growth potential associated with exporting, and then supporting them in going after and diversifying foreign markets.
• CED is one of the six regional development agencies under the responsibility of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development.
• This year marks the 50th anniversary of federal regional economic development in Quebec: half a century of concrete action dedicated to the development of the regions and local businesses.
• For more information about CED and its priorities, see the 2018-2019 Departmental Plan or visit www.dec-ced.gc.ca.

Stay connected

Follow CED on Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube

Follow Laurentides International on LinkedIn and Twitter

SOURCE Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions

Media Relations, Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, 514-283-7443, [email protected]