Actuality¹⁴⁹

The Junior Chamber of commerce of Montreal (JCCM) has carefully reviewed the 2025-2026 budget presented by Quebec Finance Minister Eric Girard. In an economic context marked by heightened uncertainty, notably due to U.S. tariff threats, the JCCM recognizes the government's desire to support the Quebec economy through increased spending. However, it stresses the importance of a long-term vision and strategic investments to ensure sustainable prosperity for the younger generation of entrepreneurs and professionals.

The budget calls for a significant increase in government spending, resulting in a record deficit and a five-year plan to return to balance. The JCCM will be closely monitoring the implementation of this plan, and insists on the need for rigorous management of public finances.

Socio-ecological transition: Initiatives to be expanded

The new generation is particularly sensitive to the climate emergency. While the allocation of only 1% of the 2024-2025 budget to the environment is a legitimate concern, the JCCM notes positively the new measures totalling an allocation of $636M to support communities, in particular to ensure the sustainable development of territories and strengthen adaptation to climate change. These initiatives, though modest, represent a step in the right direction.

The JCCM encourages the government to amplify these efforts and develop a more ambitious long-term vision for the socio-ecological transition. Investments in climate change adaptation, while necessary to respond to extreme events, should be complemented by proactive measures to reduce GHG emissions and support green innovation, sectors in which the next generation is keen to invest fully. With regard to public transit, the 2024-2034 PQI allocates nearly $700 million in additional funding to promote citizen mobility, improve traffic flow and electrify public transit. These investments are aimed in particular at supporting the Société de transport de Saguenay and the Société de transport de Montréal, as well as facilitating the acquisition of equipment by public transit companies, Exo and the Autorité régionale de transport métropolitain.


Skills development: Building on the foundations

In a changing economic environment, the JCCM welcomes the investments to promote the integration and job retention of people with disabilities ($45.2 million) and the increased budget for the francization and integration of immigrants ($141 million). These measures recognize the importance of a diversified, skilled workforce.

However, the JCCM questions the absence of an additional envelope specifically dedicated to upgrading the skills of the entire workforce, a crucial issue for improving productivity. The JCCM encourages the government to consider targeted measures to support ongoing training and skills development, in collaboration with the private sector and educational institutions, in order to prepare the next generation for the challenges of tomorrow.

Entrepreneurship, intrapreneurship and impact entrepreneurship: A promising SME Plan for the next generation

The JCCM welcomes the announcement of an envelope of $42.3 million over three years to implement the Plan PME 2025-2028 and support start-ups, recognizing the crucial importance of entrepreneurial dynamism to Quebec's growth. The Plan PME, with its integrated vision of SME support and laudable objectives, represents a positive initiative. In addition, the creation of a new $200 million investment fund, building on the success of the Impulsion PME program and benefiting from an additional $50 million from the SQRI2, is an encouraging signal to ensure the continuity of financing for high-potential young innovative companies.

The JCCM is particularly pleased with these concerted efforts to “propel young companies forward”, and stresses the importance of continued access to investment capital to support their growth and the commercialization of their innovations. While the details of the new fund and the Plan PME 2025-2028 are still to be worked out, these announcements demonstrate a recognition of entrepreneurship as a driver of innovation. The JCCM encourages the government to actively involve the next generation of entrepreneurs in the development of these initiatives, to ensure that they respond effectively to their needs and contribute to the growth of a new generation of impact businesses.

Equity, diversity and inclusion: Notable advances

Increased funding for community organizations ($50 million) and targeted investments to help those in need ($247.1 million) are important measures that demonstrate our determination to strengthen the social fabric. La relève, committed to the values of equity, diversity and inclusion, applauds these initiatives, which contribute to a fairer, more inclusive society.

The JCCM stresses the importance of ensuring that these funds are deployed effectively and meet the needs of diverse communities. It also encourages the government to continue its efforts to eliminate barriers to employment and promote equitable representation within companies.


Well-being at work: ongoing efforts needed

Measures to promote the integration of people with disabilities into the workplace ($140.6 million) are a positive step towards a more inclusive job market. The next generation recognizes the importance of well-being in the workplace as a factor in productivity and talent retention.

The JCCM encourages the government to continue exploring initiatives that support mental health in the workplace and promote a healthy work-life balance for all workers, including the next generation.


Conclusion: A budget that calls for collaboration and ambition

Quebec's 2025-2026 budget comes at a pivotal time for our economy. While the JCCM recognizes the government's willingness to address immediate challenges, it insists on the need for a bolder vision and strategic investments to ensure sustainable prosperity for the younger generation.

For the next generation of businesses, the picture is mixed. While some measures offer encouraging signs, others require greater attention and more substantial investment to meet tomorrow's challenges. The JCCM is convinced that it is by working together with government, the private sector and civil society that Quebec will be able to build a flourishing, sustainable economic future for the next generation. The next generation is ready to actively contribute to this future, and looks forward to a continued and ambitious commitment from the government.