In a significant move to boost local tourism and economic vitality, the Government of Canada has announced nearly $300,000 in investments for two outdoor adventure tourism organisations in MRC de Pontiac. The funding, provided by Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED), aims to support the growth and diversification of the regional tourism sector.
Liberal MP for Pontiac, Sophie Chatel, revealed the details of the investment during a press conference at Wildwood Nature Escape Inc. on Wednesday, February 12th, 2025. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for CED. Other attendees included Brittany Morin from Chutes Coulonge as well as members from various local government and support organisations that have been working on a variety of projects in the region.
Financial Contributions
The financial support from CED includes:
• $99,998 for Wildwood Nature Escape: This funding will support the development of new tourism accommodations, including the purchase and development of land. Wildwood has already acquired land, domes, prospector tents, cabins, a sauna, equipment, and furniture. This investment will aid in their plans by facilitating the construction of a reception building, a sanitary block, and the installation of solar panels.
• $200,000 for Chutes Coulonge: The investment here is aimed at enhancing the tourism experience through equipment purchases and infrastructure improvements for the aerial park. Chutes Coulonge will also develop a new website with a reservation system, improve its welcome centre with a boutique, construct a new sanitary block, create a campsite and area for vans, and introduce an activity on ice.
Promoting Economic Vitality
Sophie Chatel emphasised the critical role of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and non-profit organisations (NPOs) in local economies.
“The support from CED for Wildwood Nature Escape Inc. and Chutes Coulonge will diversify the tourism experience in our region. The spin-offs from these projects will undoubtedly contribute to the economic vitality of Pontiac and the entire Outaouais region,” said Chatel.
Minister Pascale St-Onge underlined the government’s commitment to the tourism industry and regional economic development.
“This assistance will not only stimulate the regional economy and create jobs but also raise the Outaouais region’s profile among visitors from Quebec and beyond,” stated St-Onge.
Federal Support for Vulnerable Regions
This funding is part of CED’s broader initiative under the Quebec Economic Development Program, which helps communities capitalise on economic development and diversification opportunities. CED is particularly focused on the 75 regional county municipalities (RCMs) in Quebec with low growth potential, offering flexible support through 2027 to the eight most economically vulnerable RCMs, including MRC de Pontiac. By investing in popular outdoor attractions like glamping or nature parks, the government can boost the economies of these regions.
When governments are involved from development, they also help support the local businesses that build this infrastructure.
“The government investments were instrumental in our plans to provide a great tourism destination for visitors to the region. It allowed us to work with local and trusted partners like S. Duval Construction Inc. who have several staff working full time to make sure we are ready for visitors.” said Wildwood co-owner Geneviève Cooke.
The construction had already begun at Wildwood and was ongoing during the press conference with Sophie Chatel. We got to witness the team getting ready to install the roof of the sanitation building that will include showers, washrooms, supplies and storage. The company has been working at the site since late 2023.
About CED
Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED) is the federal partner dedicated to promoting economic growth and regional development across Quebec. With 12 regional business offices, CED supports businesses, organisations, and communities, driving them towards a sustainable, inclusive economy.
This investment marks a significant step towards fostering tourism growth and economic rejuvenation in the MRC de Pontiac, aligning with the Government of Canada’s commitment to building a robust, diversified regional economy.
