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SDC District Central Launches The Manifesto of La Grande Fabrique
PRESS RELEASE
SDC District Central Launches The Manifesto of La Grande Fabrique: A call to action to collectively shape the future of the district
Montréal, June 11, 2026 - Today, on the occasion of its 10th anniversary, the Société de développement commercial (SDC) District Central unveils the Manifesto of La Grande Fabrique—a unifying framework of commitment that brings together the territory’s economic, institutional, and political stakeholders around a shared vision for the future of District Central. The result of a vast collaborative process, this manifesto establishes the major orientations that will guide the development of the territory in a context shaped by economic, climate, and urban transformations.
In the face of economic disruptions, logistical challenges, and the vital need to preserve local autonomy and expertise, District Central is entering a decisive moment in its evolution. Recognized as a metropolitan innovation zone and Montreal's fourth-largest employment hub, the territory faces growing pressures that demand the strengthening of conditions essential to its economic vitality, attractiveness, and productive capacity.
"District Central is not asking for attention; it is asking for recognition. This manifesto marks a turning point: the moment where we collectively choose to stop managing this territory for the short term, and instead recognize, protect, and govern it as the productive heart of Montreal," explains Hélène Veilleux, Executive Director of the SDC District Central.
The Manifesto of La Grande Fabrique is built around key structural commitments:
1. Recognize the District Central as the productive heart of Montreal;
2. Deploy a project-based shared governance model;
3. Make urban logistics a priority for the District Central;
4. Establish the framework for a business single-window (guichet d’affaires) and local investment levers;
5. Promote the industrial merchant model;
6. Ensure maintenance, cleanliness, and safety as essential conditions for economic development;
7. Address and remove obstacles to business operations.
Broad Support from District Stakeholders
The Manifesto of La Grande Fabrique has received the support of numerous economic, institutional, and political partners—including Maude Théroux-Séguin, Mayor of Ahuntsic-Cartierville—who recognize the vital importance of rallying around a shared vision to ensure the prosperity of the District Central.
"Every day, I see the strong mobilization of the SDC District Central and the businesses it represents, their deep attachment to the area, and their tangible commitment to it. As an innovation zone rich in history and achievements, the District Central is a source of pride for our borough and deserves recognition that matches its contribution to Montreal's economic vitality. Today, dialogue has been restored. Together, let’s build the future of the District Central," states Maude Théroux-Séguin, Mayor of Ahuntsic-Cartierville.
A Collective, Action-Oriented Process
The Manifesto of La Grande Fabrique is the culmination of a major consultation process led by the SDC over recent months, reaching some 200 businesses, property owners, socioeconomic partners, and local institutions. Through individual meetings, a territorial survey, collaborative workshops, and the Business Summit (Assises d’affaires) of La Grande Fabrique, participants identified the priority conditions and levers of action necessary to strengthen the resilience and competitiveness of the District Central.
This manifesto is built for the long term and will now serve as a reference framework to guide decisions, steer structuring projects, reinforce collaboration between stakeholders, and inform the development of the Territorial Resilience Plan 2027-2030.
About the SDC District Central
The Société de développement commercial (SDC) District Central is the catalyst and the voice of the Ahuntsic-Cartierville business world. It represents the combined forces of 2,100 business leaders united to develop a sector with outstanding economic, urban and human potential. Its mission is clear: to breathe new life into this legendary neighbourhood, make it shine on a broader stage and propel it to the very top of Montreal’s economic landscape. Covering an area of 3km2, the District Central is the 4th largest employment centre in Montreal, with 25,000 workers grouped around three business hubs: design, urban manufacturing and technology.
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INFORMATION
Consult the Manifesto of the Grande Fabrique (in French)
MEDIA CONTACT
Audrey Huot-Grondin
438-350-0127
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