BROMONT, QC, On September, 15. 2025 /CNW/ – Technum Québec, Bromont‘s microelectronics and semiconductor innovation zone, is proud to inaugurate Espace Konect, its signature building that will host start-ups and companies in the acceleration phase. The official opening took place today in the presence of Isabelle Charest, Member of Parliament for Brome-Missisquoi, Minister responsible for Sport, Recreation and Outdoor Activities and Minister responsible for the Estrie region, and Francis Dorion, City Manager of Bromont and member of the Technum Québec Board of Directors, as well as several guests.
“Electronics play a key role in approximately 80% of modern technological innovations. At Technum Québec, we offer an environment conducive to the incubation and acceleration of emerging companies that can have a tangible impact in a variety of strategic sectors such as artificial intelligence, aerospace, defense, medicine, biotechnology, and electric and autonomous vehicles,” said Manon Duclos, President and CEO of Technum Québec. “To get off the ground, young startups need support. At Espace Konect, they will find the right partners within a global ecosystem, as well as adequate financing opportunities to achieve their goals.”
Driving innovation and promoting sustainable growth
Companies occupying the konect space will be required to work on developing products related to Technum Québec’s areas of expertise, namely electronic components, embedded systems, manufacturing-free design, and the Internet of Things. The United Nations’ sustainable development criteria will also guide the company selection process.
The entrepreneurs’ path will be determined based on the maturity stage of their products, from idea to market. A personalized approach will be defined in collaboration with key partners in the ecosystem, including C2MI, ISEQ, and the University of Sherbrooke. A component focused on the human factors of entrepreneurship will be highlighted, as well as environmental responsibility.
The konect space will also become an integral part of the Bromont community by hosting events in collaboration with local partners, such as activities focused on introducing young people to science and microelectronics.
The building itself was designed to encourage interaction and networking, following the design principles of WELL certification and biophilia. WELL certification incorporates the interrelated principles of light, air, water, thermal comfort, materials, physical activity, sense of community, and mental well-being. Biophilia promotes connection with nature, which contributes to increased productivity, concentration, and creativity, among other benefits.
The $17.1 million project was made possible thanks to financial support from the Ministry of Economy, Innovation, and Energy (MEIE) and the City of Bromont, through its economic development corporation (SODEB). In addition, Desjardins is also on the list of financial partners with a $1 million contribution from its Fonds du Grand Mouvement, thereby supporting the creation of an environment conducive to innovation, trade, and regional economic growth.
Quotes:
“With the Bromont Innovation Zone, we want to propel Quebec to become a true international leader in the digital technology and smart electronic systems sectors. This new incubator is a key component of Technum Quebec, promoting the growth of innovative companies in a strategic sector of our economy.”
Christine Fréchette, Minister of Economy, Innovation, and Energy
“This project marks an important milestone in the development of Technum Québec in Bromont. Our government is proud to support the growth of this new entrepreneurial infrastructure, which will provide start-ups with the support they need to carry out their projects and contribute to the economic vitality of the entire Brome-Missisquoi and Estrie regions.”
Isabelle Charest, Member of Parliament for Brome-Missisquoi, Minister responsible for Sport, Recreation, and Outdoor Activities, and Minister responsible for the Estrie region
“When our economy grows to serve people, our entire quality of life improves, and when our living environment improves, our businesses thrive.”
Francis Dorion, City Manager of Bromont and member of the board of directors of Technum Québec
“Supporting innovative businesses is at the heart of our mission. By supporting Technum Québec through its Fonds du Grand Mouvement fund, Desjardins is responding to a real need in the sector: supporting start-ups in microelectronics and semiconductors. We want to give them the means to realize their vision by offering them our support, expertise, and access to our networks. On the occasion of Desjardins’ 125th anniversary, we proudly reaffirm our commitment to the ambitions of our members and clients, and are pleased to be associated with this promising project, which contributes to building a more sustainable economy.”
Jean-Yves Bourgeois, Senior Vice President, Business Services, Desjardins
About Technum Québec – Electronics and Semiconductor Innovation Zone
Designated an innovation zone by the Quebec government in February 2022, Technum Québec is the technological ambassador for a digital Quebec. The organization contributes to the growth of the electronics and semiconductor ecosystem by stimulating collaborations and connections for the development of innovations, technology transfers, and the creation of economic, social, and environmental wealth. Its various partnerships enable the sustainable integration of digital technologies in all spheres of the economy and position Quebec as a leader on the world stage.
SOURCE: Technum Québec