Launch of the 2nd edition of the “Je relève le défi vert” contest

Montréal, June 2, 2025 – Building on the success of its first edition, PME MTL Centre-Ouest is relaunching its ‘Je relève le défi vert’ contest, in collaboration with its partners, to encourage local businesses to adopt eco-responsible or social practices. 

The contest is made possible thanks to the financial support of the Caisse Desjardins du Centre-Nord de Montréal and the Caisse Desjardins de Bordeaux - Cartierville - Saint-Laurent, as well as the collaboration of Ville en Vert, VertCité, the éco-quartiers of the boroughs of Ahuntsic-Cartierville and Saint-Laurent respectively, the Town of Mount Royal, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Saint-Laurent-Mont-Royal and Synergie Montréal. 

"In a world faced with ever-increasing climatic challenges, the choice to adopt a sustainable development policy or plan is essential. At Desjardins, this value is an integral part of our actions. Providing our businesses with the leverage they need to meet these challenges is also one of our priorities. That's why we're proud to help fund a program that facilitates the ecological transition for local businesses”, Richard Georges, General Manager, Caisse Desjardins du Centre-nord de Montréal. 

"We are delighted to support the relaunch of the ‘Je relève le défi vert’ contest. The first edition demonstrated the positive impact that local businesses can have when they adopt environmentally and socially responsible practices. Last year, 22 businesses from our borough took part and set an example by implementing inspiring initiatives, proving that this competition is a worthwhile project. With the support of our partners and Desjardins, we hope to encourage even more entrepreneurs to commit to a sustainable future", Emilie Thuillier, Mayor of the Ahuntsic-Cartierville borough. 

"After the success of the first edition of the ‘Je relève le défi vert’ contest, Saint-Laurent is delighted to be participating again this year. This initiative embodies our commitment, as defined in our Climate Emergency Plan, to mobilize all players in our community to act in favor of the environment and promote ecological practices. By supporting our local companies and businesses, we are enabling them to review their methods and create unique solutions to achieve a successful ecological transition. I strongly encourage all Saint-Laurent businesses to join this collective effort and actively contribute to this important transformation," Alan DeSousa, Mayor of Saint-Laurent.

"The Town of Mount Royal is proud to take part in the second edition of the ‘Je relève le défi vert’ contest organized by PME-MTL Centre-Ouest. Local businesses play a key role in the vitality of our community and in the transition towards sustainable businesses. To encourage eco-responsible actions and to help shine the spotlight on local businesses that innovate with passion and responsibility we invite everyone to support the initiatives of our local businesses at in favour of sustainable development and the circular economy", Peter J. Malouf, Mayor of Town of Mount Royal.

"Sustainable development starts locally, and the businesses and urban factories in our neighbourhoods have an essential role to play. With this initiative, we're giving them the means to take concrete action on their own scale. The success of the first edition shows that, with the support of mobilized partners and targeted coaching, businesses can innovate, adopt sustainable eco-responsible practices and inspire their communities. PME MTL Centre-Ouest is proud to support this unifying initiative, which contributes to building a greener future", Marc-André Perron, General Manager, PME MTL Centre-Ouest.

A flexible contest adapted to the reality of businesses

Thanks to the first edition held in 2024, more than 30 businesses have already implemented inspiring initiatives in the territory. This year, the contest aims to support even more entrepreneurs and encourage them to take action.

Each business is free to propose one or more actions, according to its priorities. Entries will be judged in three categories: retail and services, catering, small urban manufacturing.

Prizes to be won

-        20,000 in Desjardins grants;

-        An annual membership to Synergie Montréal (value of $200) to strengthen support for the circular economy.

Participation period

Businesses can apply until August 15, 2025.

Information and application: https://pmemtl.com/centre-ouest/concours-je-releve-le-defi-vert2025

Partners of the initiative