Regional economic development in the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region
Dolbeau-Mistassini, Quebec, March 12, 2019 – The governments of Quebec and Canada have awarded $158,000 and $200,000, respectively, to Usinage numérique HB so that the company can increase its production capacity in order to respond to growth in its sales. Valued at $667,000, the project will allow Usinage numérique HB to acquire and install a machining centre and purchase a quality control system, as well as various tools and accessories.
The announcement was made today by Nancy Guillemette, MNA for Roberval, acting on behalf of Pierre Fitzgibbon, Minister of the Economy and Innovation; and Richard Hébert, MP for Lac‑St-Jean and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Small Business and Export Promotion, acting on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED).
The financial assistance from the Government of Quebec is provided in the form of an interest‑free loan through the ESSOR program and from Investissement Québec's own funds. The Government of Canada's repayable contribution was provided under CED's Regional Economic Growth through Innovation program.
"For a number of months now, Usinage numérique HB's order book has been so full that the company has had to subcontract elsewhere in Quebec to meet demand. With the help of our funding, the company will be able to pursue its growth and remain competitive. The government is pleased to support the success of entrepreneurs in the region, whose projects contribute to the economic vitality of Quebec as a whole."
Nancy Guillemette, MNA for Roberval
"Economic development in the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region and throughout Quebec is dependent on productivity growth and the modernization of businesses, including manufacturing companies. It is the determination of entrepreneurs that will enable us to take Quebec even further and make its economy even more competitive."
Pierre Fitzgibbon, Minister of the Economy and Innovation
"Usinage numérique HB has built a solid reputation based on highly qualified expertise and, as such, offers an impressive breeding ground for innovation. I am proud of the Government of Canada's support for this high-performing, forward-looking company, whose visibility extends well beyond our region."
Richard Hébert, MP for Lac-Saint-Jean and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Small Business and Export Promotion
"A driving force of the economy, innovation is the key to success for all organizations. Innovation alone generates growth that benefits both businesses and communities. It is for this reason that the Government of Canada supports businesses that invest in equipment to improve their performance and profitability. The funding announced today is a concrete manifestation of this commitment."
The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for CED
Quick facts
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Usinage numérique HB specializes in precision machining using CNC machinery. The company processes plastics, ferrous and non-ferrous metals and steel and aluminum for industrial customers and the promotional materials sector.
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The goal of the ESSOR program, administered by the Ministère de l'Économie et de l'Innovation, is to support investment projects carried out in Quebec, with a view to fostering competitiveness and productivity, job creation and sustainable development.
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CED is one of the six regional development agencies under the responsibility of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development.
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For 50 years now, the Government of Canada has been actively involved in regional economic development in Quebec: half a century of concrete action targeting the growth of Quebec's regions and businesses.
