The Agtech Zone and the Carrefour industriel et expérimental de Lanaudière (CIEL) held the groundbreaking ceremony today for the future Agrosciences and Agritechnologies Innovation Complex, a flagship project co-developed by both organizations to stimulate scientific and technological innovation in the agricultural sector.
Supported by the Government of Quebec and the Desjardins Group, this large-scale complex will include specialized laboratories, technology workshops, and fully equipped collaborative spaces. It serves two complementary purposes: to increase CIEL's research capacity in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and to host innovative technology companies in spaces designed for developing, testing, and commercializing their solutions.
"This complex is much more than just infrastructure: it's a catalyst for transformation for the regional economy and for agriculture across Quebec. We are proud to support this impactful project that will drive innovation and sustainable agriculture at the heart of our territory," said Sébastien Nadeau, Mayor of L'Assomption and President of the Agtech Zone.
A Catalytic Project Led by Two Agricultural Innovation Leaders
Officially recognized as an innovation center by the Government of Quebec in March 2025, the Agtech Zone serves as a strategic hub supporting technology companies that contribute to a sustainable, resilient, and high-performing agricultural sector. The complex will enhance the Zone's ecosystem, which is already recognized as a driver of attraction, development, and transfer of agri-tech innovations.
Established in 1997 on the former Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) experimental farm, CIEL is an applied research center recognized by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food of Quebec (MAPAQ). Specializing in Integrated Pest Management (IPM), CIEL focuses on reducing pesticide use, developing sustainable alternatives, and transferring knowledge to agricultural producers.
"This project will significantly boost CIEL's research capacity and accelerate the development of concrete solutions for agriculture that respects public health, biodiversity, and the environment. It's a major step forward in our mission," said Michel Fafard, President of CIEL.
Major Partnership with Desjardins Announced
At the event, Desjardins Group announced a $1 million contribution through its "Fonds du Grand Mouvement" for the construction of the Complex. This funding aims to stimulate business attraction and growth, thereby boosting innovation and economic development.
"Desjardins is proud to put its 'Fonds du Grand Mouvement' in service of the Agtech Zone and CIEL. We firmly believe this project will transform food autonomy and environmental sustainability while positioning the region as a leader in agricultural innovation. Contributing to a more prosperous and sustainable future by leveraging our expertise and support in agriculture is why we're proud to be partners," said Jean-Yves Bourgeois, Executive Vice-President, Business Services at Desjardins Group.
Strong support for the project
The ceremony was attended by: Lynne Harpin, Director of the office of François Legault, MNA for L'Assomption and Premier of Quebec, Patrick Gravel, General Manager of Caisse Desjardins Pierre-Le Gardeur, Sébastien Nadeau, Mayor of L'Assomption and President of the Agtech Zone, Michel Fafard, President of CIEL, Marilou Cyr, General Manager of the Agtech Zone, Isabel Lefebvre, General Manager of CIEL, Sylvain Rivest, President of L'Archevêque & Rivest Ltée, general contractor selected through the public call for tenders for the Complex, Martine Daoust, Director of Local Development and Business Services, MRC de L'Assomption and CieNOV, Mathieu Gingras, Regional Director for Montreal, Laval, Lanaudière, Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food
For more information:
Agtech Zone
[email protected]
www.zoneagtech.ca