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From the Shadows to Influence: The Rise of District Central in 10 Years
At the heart of Ahuntsic-Cartierville, the Société de développement commercial (SDC) of District Central is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year. This industrial territory, which brings together more than 2,100 businesses and some 25,000 workers, is now establishing itself as Montreal's fourth-largest employment hub. Behind this evolution lies a strong conviction: the success of a territory depends on the mobilization of those who work and live there.
A neighborhood that finds its voice
When SDC District Central was established in 2016, few Montrealers fully realized the scale and significance of this district in the city's north end. Yet the area was already home to an impressive concentration of manufacturers, wholesalers and professional service firms.
“People are always surprised when they discover the businesses located here. They possess extraordinary expertise and a strong commitment to making a tangible contribution to their community,” says Hélène Veilleux, Executive Director of SDC District Central.
Over the years, the organization has helped raise the profile of this strategically important economic district by fostering a shared vision rooted in its unique identity. Today, District Central is recognized as a major player in Montreal’s economic ecosystem, actively contributing to the key discussions shaping the future development of the metropolis.
An SDC like no other
Unlike many SDC’s that focus on a single commercial street, the SDC District Central operates in a predominantly industrial and business-oriented environment. Here, the key issues revolve around urban logistics, such as freight transportation, and the diversity of activities taking place across the territory.
“We are the only SDC operating within an industrial district. Our needs are different, but our goal remains the same: to create an attractive environment where businesses want to establish themselves and grow.”
Hélène Veilleux, Executive Director, SDC District Central
Among the initiatives that have marked recent years, the Signature Intervention Plan, supported by the Fonds signature métropole, plays a central role. Launched in 2023, this initiative aims to improve the quality of life and the urban environment across the District. The approach brings public and private stakeholders together to deliver projects that benefit the entire community. Landscaping, street furniture and public art, as well as initiatives that celebrate the neighbourhood’s history, are among the projects that have been completed or are currently underway.
“Our role is that of a catalyst. We help businesses turn their ideas into reality and create the conditions for public and private partners to collaborate,” explains the Executive Director.
The Ruelle L’Oasis, developed between two buildings on Chabanel Street, perfectly illustrates this approach. Even though it is located on private property, this space was designed as a public area open to workers, visitors and the local community.
Building lasting connections
One of SDC District Central’s most distinctive initiatives is the Connector of Opportunities. Created to foster connections among businesses and with local partners, this service acts as a true catalyst for collaboration. Between 2021 and 2025, no fewer than 789 business connections were facilitated. For the Executive Director, this figure reflects a deeply rooted culture of collaboration.
Among the Connector of Opportunities’ success stories, one partnership stands out: a businesswoman seeking to preserve her seamstress mother’s legacy was connected with an entrepreneur in the apparel manufacturing sector. This collaboration gave new life to a significant collection of fabrics, patterns and mannequins while helping preserve the memory and heritage of the District.
“We are constantly seeking to understand businesses’ needs and connect them with the right resources. A culture of mutual support has developed, and it now extends beyond the boundaries of our organization.”
Hélène Veilleux, Executive Director, SDC District Central
Hélène Veilleux attributes this success to the trust that has been built among businesses over time—a dynamic she describes as a true form of collective intelligence. “We need to remain curious, meet with people, and continue building bridges. That is what enables the stakeholders across the territory to move forward together,” she concludes.
Source: La Presse Xtra – Partner Content
This article is an adaptation of an original text written by La Presse Xtra and published in La Presse Xtra.
Read the original article: SDC District Central : De l’ombre à l’influence : l’ascension du District Central en 10 ans
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