SMEs play a key role in ensuring the energy transition in Quebec’s economy, so they strive to innovate and grow by becoming more competitive in a greener world. To achieve this, CED has just given a Sherbrooke-based company a serious boost.

Sherbrooke roaster Café William Spartivento will receive $2.5 million in financial support from CED to contribute to the green transition of Quebec’s economy. (Canada Economic Development)

The MNA for Brome-Missisquoi, Minister of Sport and Minister in Charge of IBD, the Honorable Pascale St-Onge, and the MNA for Sherbrooke and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Mental Health and Addiction and Deputy Minister for Santé, Élisabeth Brière, who made the announcement : a repayable donation of $2.5 million to Café William Spartivento as part of its project to build a smart factory that will be LEED certified.

For Rémi Tremblay, General Manager of Café William Spartivento, thanks to this contribution from CED, several improvements become possible: “In addition to doubling our production capacity, the construction of the new plant allows us to acquire new modern equipment that will facilitate the daily tasks of our employees “.

This support from CED will enable the Sherbrooke roaster to acquire new low-energy equipment, including an all-electric roaster that is believed to be unique in the world. Thanks to these acquisitions, the company will produce faster and in larger quantities while implementing a manufacturing process that uses less energy.

For her part, the Honorable Pascale St-Onge, MNA for Brome-Missisquoi, Minister of Sport and Minister in charge of IBD, reminds us of the need to support companies to develop more environmentally friendly processes and products: “That is why our Quebec government supports companies Café William Spartivento for a project that will allow him to reduce his ecological footprint while increasing his competitiveness. Congratulations to the entire team at Café William Spartivento for this green turn, whose efforts are helping to build a better future for generations to come. You are an example to follow!”

In addition, Élisabeth Brière, Member of Parliament for Sherbrooke and Parliamentary Secretary to the Secretary of State for Mental Health and Addiction and Deputy Secretary of Health, confirms that Sherbrooke is teeming with entrepreneurs who are the fabric of a dynamic economy: “The contribution announced today speaks for itself of Café William Spartivento, shows how CED can support businesses that want to contribute to a sustainable economy for the continued growth of Sherbrooke and the region. By helping Cafe William acquire his new equipment, we are helping him become more environmentally friendly while becoming more innovative and competitive.”

The funding announced today was granted under the Jobs and Growth Fund program, a program aimed at businesses and business organizations to help them prepare local economies for long-term growth. These are strategic investments in projects that reduce Canada’s environmental impact and promote a green and resilient economy.

Also, according to a 2022 survey conducted by Manufacturers and Exporters Canada, 90% of Canadian manufacturing SMEs have not yet started the transition to carbon neutrality. However, SMEs are responsible for about 30% of Canada’s total GHG emissions. The 2021 Speech from the Throne confirms that the fight against climate change and ecological transition are priorities for the Canadian government. CED is Quebec’s premier federal partner for regional economic development, supporting businesses and organizations through its 12 regional business offices and supporting all regions of Quebec towards tomorrow’s economy.