Over the past year, 113 local businesses have benefited from the support of Développement Vaudreuil-Soulanges (DEV). A total of $1,968,805 was granted in loans and non-repayable assistance. At least, that's what emerges from the organization's 2023 annual report, which was presented on May 28 at the annual general meeting.

From the outset, DEV President and Mayor of Vaudreuil-Dorion, Guy Pilon, noted that the region was once again experiencing effervescence and growth this year.

In fact, 17 of the MRC's 23 towns and municipalities rank in the top quintile of Quebec's index of the most economically vitalized territories. This regional dynamism is echoed by our businesses, which are grappling with the issues of labour scarcity and housing. These are priorities that the DEV team has taken on as part of its mission to bring together regional partners to, among other things, promote the quality of local jobs.

DEV's General Manager, Joanne Brunet, then reminded the audience that DEV is the local and regional economic development authority recognized by the MRC. “Our organization aims to remain the nerve center and pivot that accompanies, supports and brings together entrepreneurs to stimulate their success and the region's economic growth,” she said.

The core of the organization's activities remains the provision of professional support to entrepreneurs and companies wishing to set up or expand in the region. Once again this year, hundreds of entrepreneurs have benefited from the technical and financial support of DEV's experts.

In 2023, close to $2 million in loans and non-repayable assistance was granted to support 113 business projects. These projects generated significant investments, totalling over $7 million. This testifies to DEV's commitment to supporting business innovation and growth.

The 2023 annual report is available on the Développement Vaudreuil-Soulanges website.

DEV's achievements in 2023 include 

- The organization of events on themes such as business transfer, artificial intelligence, the LEAN management approach and digital and robotic solutions;

- The roll-out of a calendar of activities for HR managers: 7 training courses and discovery mornings attended by 145 participants;
- More than 60 hours of coaching for social economy projects, benefiting 9 different companies.

- Three Employeurs de qualité job fairs, bringing together 113 employers and over 950 job seekers.

- The publication of eight articles as part of the En avant le développement/Ils ont choisis V-S series to promote the success of companies established in Vaudreuil-Soulanges, and the addition of the En avant la relève theme;

- Detailed study of industrial zones undertaken and consultations with elected officials as part of the PREI program (Programme de revalorisation des espaces industriels); 

- Achat local Vaudreuil-Soulanges' regional promotional campaign: new prepaid card initiative with 30% holiday bonus.281 cards sold in less than 48 hours, with an estimated economic impact of over $54,000 for local businesses.

- New tools to promote the region: a tourist map and the La région section on the web platform.
- The development of a partnership with Navette Nature, a company specializing in recreational transportation, which has made it possible to offer Vaudreuil-Soulanges as a new destination for excursionists keen on the great outdoors and local flavours.