SADC Pontiac celebrates 40 years of local economic development

MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release

SADC PONTIAC CELEBRATES 40 YEARS OF ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT WITH SIGNATURE DINNER EVENT IN THE REGION’S HISTORIC RED COVERED BRIDGE

Mansfield-et-Pontefract, September 12, 2025 – The Société d’aide au développement des collectivités (SADC) Pontiac is proud to celebrate its 40th anniversary with a unique signature event: Dinner in the Bridge, hosted in the iconic red covered bridge, Pont Félix-Gabriel Marchand. This one-of-a-kind evening will bring together clients, partners, and collaborators with whom the SADC has worked over the past four decades to foster economic growth and community vitality throughout the Pontiac region.

“This celebration is more than a milestone—it is a reflection of the collaboration, resilience, and vision of our businesses, organizations, and communities,” said Rhonda Perry, Director General of SADC Pontiac. “By hosting the dinner in such a touristically and culturally symbolic setting, and by sourcing everything locally, we are honouring the people and enterprises who continue to shape our region’s future.”

In keeping with SADC Pontiac’s commitment to supporting the local economy, all supplies and services for the event have been sourced through local businesses, producers, and service providers, with every detail highlighting the region’s entrepreneurial spirit. The Pontiac Tourism Association is partnering in the initiative, running the evening bar as a fundraising effort to support regional tourism marketing projects. Guests will enjoy locally crafted beverages featured along the region’s Tap & Cork Route, further underlining the event’s theme of celebrating and reinvesting in the local economy.

Government leaders also highlighted the SADC’s long-standing role in strengthening the Pontiac’s economy:
“I salute the remarkable work done by the SADC Pontiac’s professionals and volunteers, who have been supporting the region’s businesses and communities for 40 years now. Your commitment plays a key role in our economic vitality and sustainable growth. CED is proud to be able to count on you to increase prosperity in the Pontiac.”
— The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Member of Parliament for Ahuntsic-Cartierville, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED)

“On this 40th anniversary of the SADC Pontiac, I highlight its crucial importance to the region’s businesses and organizations, which are veritable engines driving our economic dynamism. Thanks to its assistance, adapted services and engagement in the field, the SADC stimulates sustainable development to the benefit of the entire community. It is with pride that CED supports the SADC, a key partner, as it pursues its essential mission.”
— Sophie Chatel, Member of Parliament for Pontiac‒Kitigan Zibi and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-food

The 40th anniversary of the SADC Pontiac marks not only four decades of dedicated service to the local economy but also the beginning of a new chapter of innovation, collaboration, and sustainable development in the region.

ABOUT SADC PONTIAC
For 40 years, SADC Pontiac has been committed to supporting local businesses and communities through financing, advisory services, and development initiatives. Its mission is to foster a thriving, sustainable, and diversified economy across the Pontiac region.

ABOUT THE TAP & CORK ROUTE
Launched in 2019, the Tap & Cork Route is an interprovincial initiative of SADC Pontiac, developed in partnership with the Ottawa Valley Tourism Association and the MRC Pontiac. The project was created to highlight and promote the variety and quality of local craft alcohols across the region.

LOCAL ENTREPRENEURS INVOLVED SUPPLYING AND REALIZING THIS EVENT
Blue Heron Landscaping
Brauwerk Hoffman
Café 349
Cedar Creek Farm
Construction Morin et Fils Inc.
Coronation Hall Cider Mill
East Range Milling
Groupe Boisvert Construction
Kids, Cows & Flowers Co.
Les Filles d’Isabelle
Les Serres Paul Amyotte
Maman Poule
Mansfield-et-Pontefract Fire Department
Mega Dollar
Monsieur Limonade
Municipality of Mansfield-et-Pontefract
OuiChef
Parc des Chutes Coulonge
Pontiac Ice
Pontiac Tourism Association
Rolling Acres Farm
Vignoble Petit Chariot Rouge

-30-

CONTACT
SADC Pontiac
Brittany Morin Marketing & Communications
819-683-3733 | brittany.morin@sadcpontiac.ca