It all began with a shared understanding: businesses facing very real common challenges in a region undergoing transformation. A question quickly emerged: how can we continue to produce, operate, and grow here in a sustainable way?

It was in this context, and as part of the La Grande Fabrique initiative for territorial resilience, that the first Les Assises d’affaires du District Central was held on June 9.

The summit followed a consultation phase involving nearly 200 businesses, property owners, socioeconomic partners, and local institutions, which helped paint a clear picture of the challenges and paved the way for action.

Designed as a practical working session, the summit aimed to acknowledge the findings, identify the actual conditions for manufacturing here, and generate concrete courses of action. Nearly 60 participants took part in two key workshops focusing on the District Central’s identity and competitiveness, as well as on governance and the ecosystem. The discussions were informed by a manufacturing case study presented by Philippe Gagnon (Attraction) and an example of shared governance with the Port of Javel, presented by Eugénie Lévis (Matelas Sélection).

At the heart of the discussions: concrete initiatives focused on urban logistics, industrial retailers, the smart business service center and its investment levers, governance, and the role of a regional ambassador.

The day concluded with joint commitments led by the mayor of Ahuntsic-Cartierville (Maude Théroux-Séguin), the business community, property owners, and the SDC:

• Recognize District Central as the productive heart of Montreal
• Implement shared governance on a project-by-project basis
• Make urban logistics a priority
• Establish a business service center and investment levers
• Promote the industrial retailer model
• Ensure conditions for maintenance, cleanliness, and safety
• Address operational barriers

The Manifesto of La Grande Fabrique formalizes these commitments (in French) : link to manifesto

This manifesto establishes the priorities that will guide the future Territorial Resilience Plan 2027–2030.

The priorities are now clear and shared.

The work continues, with one goal: to translate them into concrete actions for District Central.

The summit was opened by Hélène Veilleux, who spoke about the challenges and the conditions required for a resilient District Central: Link to the opening address (in French)