SADCs and CAEs carry out and finance over 1,000 local projects every year. In short, we power community empowerment.

• Support for project development and business model creation
• Partnership throughout project implementation
• Financial assistance through our special local economic development fund
• Research and analysis
• Access to specialists and to a national network of expertise

Innovation and integration of new technologies

More than ever, companies and organizations working to build wealth throughout Quebec must be creative in finding new solutions. That’s why we help implement a number of innovative projects in our communities.

Promoting tourism to help communities

SADCs and CAEs are very active in supporting tourism businesses and projects. We find solutions to the many challenges faced by this key sector. During the COVID-19 crisis, x% of our actions were devoted to supporting tourism.

Women entrepreneurs

SADCs and CAEs have always provided women with funding and support for their business projects. Women benefit from approximately 40% of our funding and support, and their contribution to Quebec’s economy is enormous. We understand their reality, their strengths and their constraints, and many SADCs and CAEs develop initiatives and financial products specifically with women’s needs in mind.

Sustainable development

The Réseau des SADC et CAE has been incorporating sustainable development into its work for over a decade and devising concrete solutions for businesses. SADC and CAE professionals leverage their expertise to guide businesses and organizations in adopting environmentally responsible practices.

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Revitalizing downtown areas and town cores

Downtown areas and town cores are the heart and soul of our regions. They play a big role in making communities appealing, and contribute to the quality of life and hometown pride of residents. Many SADCs and CAEs are working with merchants on revitalization work to ensure a good commercial mix, attractions that generate traffic, promotion of products and services, and vibrant and welcoming street activity. Our downtown areas have been hit hard by the pandemic, and we’re working hard to keep them welcoming and attractive.

Business projects with indigenous communities

Many SADCs and CAEs work closely with Indigenous communities to develop growth-generating projects for youth or specific industries, such as tourism and fishing.

Youth entrepreneurship and business succession

Youth are considered the future, and SADCs and CAEs could not agree more. That’s why we develop a number of initiatives to encourage youth to stay in or return to their region. We also develop or support projects that aim to hone youth’s business sense, and we help them get new businesses off the ground.

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Technical assistance goes hand-in-hand with financing and is key to the success of a business project. We offer a range of concrete solutions to entrepreneurs who are starting up, expanding or transferring their business.

As you and your business navigate the new normal, you can count on solid advice from our professionals. They understand your local challenges, and they truly want you to succeed. They can refer you to specialized consultants if needed.

Information and communication technologies

Technology is fast-paced and it can be difficult to keep up. Integrating the right information systems and communications technologies into your business can give you a valuable competitive advantage. Talk to your SADC or CAE.

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Accounting and finance

This fundamental part of your business can sometimes be a headache for smaller companies. We help you make the right decisions and make this part of your business more successful.

Human resources

Attracting and retaining employees is often a challenge in the region. Effective human resources management can make a difference and ensure the prosperity of your business. We can guide you towards effective solutions.

Marketing and sales

Effective marketing and sales strategies are essential to the success of your business. From analyzing your market and competition, to implementing concrete actions for consumers, we can guide you and help you propel your business even further.

Management

Managing a company to maximize its human and material potential is a major challenge. Take advantage of our management consulting services to ensure that your objectives and results are achieved.

Operation and production

Because your company's operational efficiency allows you to remain competitive, let us guide you to the right resources to identify improvement opportunities.

Business transfer

SADCs and CAEs are there to help you. Whether you are the owner or the new owner, you need a succession plan.

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Business start-up and expansion

The expertise of CFDC and BDC professionals, their good knowledge of their community and a rigorous and personalized follow-up is a winning recipe for the success of your business.

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We put real people and their projects first, and invest in businesses and projects that drive regional economic vitality and job creation. Our funds are locally managed to cater to the needs of individual communities. Income generated by our funds is reinvested in other projects to perpetuate local economic growth and prosperity.

Youth strategy fund

Are you between 18 and 39 years old and ready to start your own business? We take your vision seriously!

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Specialized investments fund and financing options

Take advantage of attractive loans tailored to the needs of your business. Several SADCs and CAEs are also creating specialized funds in response to specific local issues.