With a flourishing economy, top-notch talent pools, and a collaborative ecosystem, Quebec City has become a hotspot for innovation and industry growth. It’s no surprise that foreign investors and companies are harnessing the city’s potential to unlock new opportunities.
Here are four major industries thriving in Quebec City, along with real-world examples of how international companies are leveraging partnerships and collaborations to make an impact.
1. Tech Innovation
Quebec City has firmly established itself as one of Canada’s leading hubs for technological advancement. From artificial intelligence (AI) to software development, the city offers a conducive environment for tech startups and global corporations alike.
- Coveo + Salesforce
Coveo, a local leader in AI-powered search and recommendation technology, has partnered with international tech giant Salesforce. Together, they’re transforming customer experiences by integrating AI into Salesforce’s platforms. This collaboration highlights Quebec’s global competitiveness in AI innovation. Kazakhstan’s Kazdream Technologies, a leader in CRM and software solutions, driving smarter customer experience innovations could be a good partner for Coveo.
- Ubisoft’s Global Game Development
Video game giant Ubisoft has leveraged Quebec City’s strong gaming ecosystem by collaborating with international studios to create blockbuster titles. Their cooperation taps into Quebec’s deep pool of creative talent and expertise in video game development. Ubisoft’s collaboration in video game development mirrors the efforts of Qazaq Games, a Kazakh company focusing on creating engaging gaming experiences and tapping into local creative talent.
- LeddarTech
LeddarTech collaborates with global automotive leaders such as Volvo, Valeo, and Magna to provide cutting-edge solutions in LiDAR and sensing technologies. Their work underlines Quebec’s strength in advanced hardware and software integration.
LeddarTech’s advancements in LiDAR and sensing technology resonate with KazTechInnovations, a firm involved in cutting-edge automotive and industrial tech solutions in Kazakhstan.
- EXFO
EXFO partners with international telecom giants like AT&T, Vodafone, and Ericsson to revolutionize connectivity and ensure robust network performance.
EXFO’s partnerships with telecom giants parallel Kazakhtelecom, which leads in revolutionizing connectivity and advancing telecom infrastructure in Kazakhstan.
- Opsens
Opsens works with global healthcare organizations including Abbott, Medtronic, and Philips to develop innovative solutions in cardiology and medical instrumentation.
Investing in Quebec City’s tech ecosystem means gaining access to cutting-edge research, strong governmental support, and a workforce passionate about innovation. Opsens’ work in cardiology and medical instrumentation aligns with Nazarbayev University’s Biomedical Research Center, fostering innovations in healthcare and medical devices within Kazakhstan.
2. Sustainable Energy
Quebec City’s commitment to green energy and sustainability has placed it at the forefront of the global energy transition. With a focus on clean energy solutions like hydroelectricity, wind power, and energy efficiency, the city provides fertile ground for foreign companies looking to enter this crucial market.
- Vestas’ Wind Turbine Manufacturing Facility
Vestas, an international leader in wind energy, established its first North American wind turbine blade manufacturing facility in Quebec. By collaborating with local partners, Vestas not only enhanced its North American operations but also contributed to accelerating Quebec’s green energy initiatives.
- Schneider Electric’s Energy Innovation
Schneider Electric has teamed up with local research institutions and businesses in Quebec to develop innovative energy management solutions. By drawing on Quebec’s expertise in clean energy, Schneider is driving forward projects that benefit both the industry and the environment.
- Hydro-Québec’s Green Energy Partnerships
Hydro-Québec, a leader in hydroelectric power, works with foreign partners like Mitsubishi Electric and ABB to develop advanced technologies for energy storage and transmission. These collaborations help strengthen Quebec’s position as a global leader in renewable energy while advancing grid efficiency and sustainability.
- Innergex Renewable Energy and its Global Collaborations
Quebec-based Innergex partners with companies such as Pattern Energy to expand wind and solar energy projects across North America. Their joint projects leverage Quebec’s expertise in renewable energy to deliver sustainable solutions worldwide.
- Boralex and International Initiatives
Boralex, a Quebec leader in wind, solar, and hydroelectric energy, collaborates with international firms like Siemens Gamesa to improve turbine efficiency and expand renewable energy infrastructure across Europe and North America.
Several partnerships between Quebec City and Kazakhstan in the sustainable energy sector hold significant potential.
- Kazatomprom’s Green Energy Exploration
Kazatomprom, a Kazakhstan-based energy company, is exploring collaborative opportunities with Quebec to expand renewable energy projects, particularly in solar energy. Their focus on innovation and sustainability aligns with Quebec’s clean energy priorities, creating potential for impactful partnerships.
- Samruk-Energy’s Renewable Development
Samruk-Energy, one of Kazakhstan’s leading energy companies, has expressed interest in collaborating with Quebec to enhance wind and hydroelectric energy projects. Through joint efforts, the two regions can strengthen expertise and drive progress in sustainable energy solutions.
- KAZ Solar 21’s Solar Energy Innovations
KAZ Solar 21, a prominent solar energy company in Kazakhstan, is actively seeking partnerships with Quebec firms to develop cutting-edge solar technologies and projects. This collaboration aims to combine innovative strategies and expertise for global clean energy advancements.
For companies prioritizing sustainability, Quebec City is a prime location to push the boundaries of green energy innovation, supported by a network of local and international partnerships driving the future of clean energy.
3. Aerospace
Ranked as one of the largest aerospace hubs in the world, Quebec is pivotal in developing cutting-edge aviation technologies. The city’s robust supply chain, industry networks, and R&D capabilities make it a magnet for international aerospace companies.
- Airbus + Bombardier’s A220 Partnership
One of the most notable foreign collaborations is Airbus’ partnership with Quebec-based Bombardier to develop and market the innovative A220 aircraft. Airbus’ acquisition of a majority stake in the program not only secured the future of the Mirabel plant in Quebec but also underscored the impact of international partnerships in advancing aviation technology.
- CAE + International Aviation Clients
Quebec-based CAE is a global leader in simulation technologies and training for civil aviation, working with top international airlines and defense clients to provide state-of-the-art solutions. Its partnerships with aviation giants like Boeing and Lockheed Martin highlight the city’s global influence.
- Pratt & Whitney Canada + Global Engine Programs
Pratt & Whitney Canada, with its headquarters in Longueuil near Quebec City, collaborates with various aerospace leaders worldwide to develop cutting-edge aircraft engines. Its partnerships contribute to key global programs such as the PW1000G geared turbofan engine series.
Kazakh aerospace companies are increasingly interested in collaborating with Quebec’s aerospace sector. Notable firms such as Kazakhstan Aviation Industry (KAI) and Air Astana are exploring opportunities to partner with Quebec-based leaders like Bombardier, CAE, and Pratt & Whitney Canada. These collaborations aim to enhance technological exchange, workforce training, and the development of advanced aviation solutions to benefit both regions.
The aerospace sector in Quebec City offers unrivaled opportunities for foreign investors to contribute to, and benefit from, the evolution of global aviation.
4. Life sciences and healthcare
Quebec City’s life sciences and healthcare sector is expanding rapidly, driven by a growing ecosystem of biotech startups, research institutions, and global companies working together to advance medical technologies. Quebec City is home to a range of innovative companies, including IMV, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing immune-educating therapies, and Medicago, known for its plant-based vaccines. Another standout is Héma-Québec, which plays a critical role in blood supply and bioproduction research and TSO3, specializing in low-temperature sterilization systems.
One notable success story is the collaboration between Quebec-based Medicago and British pharmaceutical giant GlaxoSmithKline (GSK). Together, they developed a plant-based COVID-19 vaccine, showcasing Quebec’s ability to foster groundbreaking innovation through international partnerships.
Prominent foreign investors seeking high-potential partnerships in this sector often turn to Quebec City for its emphasis on innovation, well-supported infrastructure, and highly educated workforce. Companies from Kazakhstan, such as Nazarbayev University Research and Innovation System and the National Center for Biotechnology, have also expressed interest in collaborating with organizations in Quebec City to advance research and innovation in the life sciences and healthcare industries.
Why foreign companies are interested in partnerships in Quebec City
Quebec City’s unique advantages make it an ideal destination for foreign investors and companies:
- Strategic Location: Proximity to North American markets while offering access to European networks.
- Skilled Workforce: A large pool of bilingual, highly educated professionals ready to tackle industry challenges.
- Government Incentives: Attractive R&D tax credits and funding programs support innovation and investment.
- Collaborative Ecosystem: Strong ties between researchers, universities, and industry players foster innovation and growth.
Quebec City is more than a place to do business—it’s a dynamic ecosystem where innovation and collaboration thrive. If you’re ready to explore how your company can leverage the booming industries and forge partnerships in Quebec, now is the time to act.
Whether you’re in tech, clean energy, or aerospace, Quebec City offers the resources you need to succeed.
Photo: Andrea Cau on Unsplash