Montreal offering financial support program for businesses affected by construction work
Posted February 10, 2025 12:52 pm.
The City of Montreal has announced a new financial support program to help commercial development societies (SDCs) navigate the challenges posed by major infrastructure projects. Over the next three years, the City will invest up to $6.5 million in the program.
The program includes two components. The first offers up to $150,000 for SDCs to plan and mitigate the effects of upcoming construction projects, providing training and conducting market studies. The second offers grants ranging from $53,000 to $350,000 to help SDCs maintain foot traffic and business continuity during construction.
The City is also working on a post-construction support initiative aimed at revitalizing affected commercial areas and reducing vacancy rates.
“This program helps SDCs manage the impacts of major infrastructure projects and strengthens their role in local economic development,” said Alia Hassan-Cournol, the City’s executive committee member responsible for economic development, in a press release.
Émilie Thuillier, president of the executive committee, emphasized that the program addresses communication gaps identified in a 2023 survey, aiming to improve the sharing of information and reduce construction disruptions.
“The ASDCM welcomes this vital initiative to support SDCs and their members in maintaining the vitality of Montreal’s neighbourhoods,” said Sébastien Ridoin, executive director of the Association of Montreal SDCs (ASDCM).
The City says the new program complements existing financial aid and lump-sum subsidy programs for businesses affected by major construction.
