BDC and MEQ are joining forces for the manufacturing sector
Montreal, December 3, 2025 – BDC, Canada's bank for entrepreneurs, is teaming up with Manufacturiers & Exportateurs du Québec (MEQ), an association that stands behind more than 1000 local manufacturing companies. In the face of uncertainty and the pressures brought on by tariffs, international trade dynamics, currency fluctuations, and supply chain challenges, this partnership will help develop an in-depth understanding of manufacturers and respond quickly to their needs. The aim is to provide them with access to the solutions and expertise they need, and to support the manufacturing sector, which plays a crucial role in the economy.
MEQ members will get access to BDC’s advisory services, financing, and experts, while both BDC clients and MEQ members will have opportunities to connect through in-person events and plant tours where they will get to share stories, advice and best practices.
"The manufacturing sector accounts for over 12% of Québec’s GDP and generates 85% of its exports. Supporting manufacturing entrepreneurs and helping them seize new business opportunities is essential—especially in the current trade environment," says Véronique Dorval, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at BDC. "MEQ is a key player in supporting entrepreneurs in the sector and shares BDC’s deep commitment to tackling the challenges SME owners are facing."
“This collaboration with BDC comes at a time when manufacturers need support that is firmly grounded in the realities they face every day. By combining our expertise, we are strengthening companies’ ability to navigate a challenging business environment and seize new opportunities for growth. Our priority remains to support manufacturers with concrete, tailored solutions that address their most pressing needs.”, mentions Julie White, CEO of Manufacturiers & Exportateurs du Québec.
Since 1871, MEQ, as a member of the Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters Association, has been helping manufacturers grow the Canadian economy thanks to its innovation services by and for manufacturers, as well as its role in fostering greater connection among entrepreneurs.
By teaming up with organizations such as MEQ, BDC builds a network of partners around manufacturers, offering tailored financing and advisory services, expertise, and know-how. BDC is ready to step in to support entrepreneurs, in response to the big challenges of our time. One example: the $500 million Pivot to Grow envelope launched last March. To learn more about what BDC is doing to help tariff-impacted businesses and advice on how to prepare for increased costs, visit BDC’s tariff response page.
About BDC: 80 years as Canada’s bank for entrepreneurs
BDC is a partner of choice for all entrepreneurs looking to access the financing and advice they need to build their businesses and tackle the big challenges of our time. Our investment arm, BDC Capital, offers a wide range of risk capital solutions to help grow the most innovative firms. BDC’s development role means we are in a state of perpetual evolution – wherever entrepreneurs go and whatever the Canadian economy needs – we will be there to help them defy the odds. 80 years later, that commitment remains very much alive. Our financing and investments in fiscal 2025 will add an estimated $25 billion to Canada’s GDP over the next five years. We are one of Canada’s Top 100 Employers and Canada’s Best Diversity Employers, and the first financial institution in Canada to receive the B Corp certification in 2013. For more information on our products and services and to consult free tools, templates and articles, visit bdc.ca or join BDC on social media.
About MEQ
Manufacturiers & Exportateurs du Québec is a business association dedicated to the growth of Quebec’s manufacturing sector. The association relies on a network of more than 1,000 manufacturing companies of all sizes across the province.
MEQ represents the interests of its members and supports them in addressing key challenges related to workforce development, innovation, export growth, and decarbonization. MEQ is also part of Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters, the country’s largest trade and industrial association, founded in 1871.
Through its 10 manufacturing networks, MEQ remains closely connected to the field and actively amplifies the voice of the sector with governments, helping foster a more competitive business environment in Quebec and abroad.
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