Montreal launches Ax.c hub to boost tech startups and innovation

A new world-class centre dedicated to supporting technology startups officially opened in downtown Montreal on Monday.

The Ax.c hub, located in the former Montreal Exchange building at Place Victoria, aims to help Quebec’s tech companies grow and compete on the global stage.

The launch event was attended by Christopher Skeete, Minister for the Economy and Minister Responsible for the Laval Region, along with government and private partners, and representatives from École de technologie supérieure (ÉTS), which manages the project.

Ax.c offers a modern, flexible space covering 100,000 square feet, including offices for startups, accelerators, incubators, and support organizations. It also features coworking areas, prototyping workshops, meeting rooms, and investor lounges.

The facility currently houses 40 dedicated offices for startups, with plans to increase to 50 by 2026.

Christopher Skeete, Minister for the Economy, Minister Responsible for the Fight Against Racism and Minister Responsible for the Laval Region, highlighted the importance of the hub:

“Ax.c hub is a major space for our young technology companies and for the entire ecosystem. They play a key role in Quebec’s economic vitality and entrepreneurship, and it is our duty to help them collectively to develop and to break into markets. Our government is very proud to have supported this ambitious initiative as part of the 2022-2027 Québec research and innovation investment strategy. Congratulations to all partners, and here’s to the thriving future of Ax.c!”

The hub brings together a strong network of incubators, accelerators, investors, and established companies to foster collaboration and support for innovative projects.

Over its first year, Ax.c plans to welcome nearly 90 tenant companies in phases and will host events to strengthen partnerships and promote Quebec’s technology sector both locally and internationally.

Geneviève Leclerc, Director of Ax.c, said the hub will be a vibrant meeting place designed to maximize collaboration and the success of Quebec startups.

The creation of Ax.c is the result of a $48 million investment from multiple sources, including provincial and federal governments, the City of Montreal, and private sector partners.

The project originated from Centech, ÉTS’ well-known incubator, and aligns with Quebec’s 2022-2027 research and innovation investment strategy aimed at strengthening the province’s innovation capacity.

Luc Rabouin, Executive Committee Member for Economic Development at the City of Montreal, called Ax.c “a powerful lever for Montreal’s future” and highlighted the city’s role as a global tech hub.

Ax.c is set to become a key destination for innovative entrepreneurship in Quebec, helping local startups expand their reach worldwide.