Rio Tinto Fund for the Aluminium Valley®
The AVS supports entrepreneurs in the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region, among other ways, through financing. Since 2015, more than $1.9 million has been granted through the Rio Tinto Fund for the Aluminium Valley®.
Main Eligibility Criteria
Development of aluminum products within the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region.
Aluminum product development projects, whether for new or existing products, including design, aluminum conversion, prototyping, simulation, or new extrusion, etc.
Projects requiring specific studies and analyses related to the aluminum processing industry. This support may cover needs such as marketing, market studies, equipment purchase planning, commercialization preparation, business meetings, certifications, etc.
Projects focused on the recovery of aluminum by-products, recycling processes, sustainable development, or circular economy initiatives.
Financing
The contribution granted is non-repayable.
The funded amount covers 50% of the total project cost, up to a maximum of $25,000.
Project Evaluation
Projects are reviewed by the advisory committee based on the eligibility criteria.
Do you have a project? We can help you!
Supported Projects
Over the years, the Société de la Vallée de l’Aluminium has supported more than 500 projects through the Rio Tinto Fund for the Aluminium Valley® and Desjardins–Innovatech Fund, as well as through its advisory role. Here are a few examples of supported projects:
Stobia
« The Stobia team would like to thank the Société de la Vallée de l’Aluminium for its involvement in the realization of our project. The financial and advisory support our company received from the very beginning has allowed us to gain greater knowledge and development capabilities. The AVS has been a key partner, contributing to the mastery of the project’s technical challenges by facilitating access to the regional expertise of the aluminum industry. The support we received helped structure, improve, and ensure the project’s success. We are grateful to have had access to such valuable resources during the startup of our company. »
La Vieille Garde (The Old Guard)
« The financial support from the AVS greatly contributed to the development of the Frontenac. Whether through the conceptualization and 3D modeling of components, 3D printing prototyping, or aluminum extrusion production for part testing, the AVS supported La Vieille Garde in carrying out various essential steps in the long process of bringing this high-potential product to market.
We will be forever grateful and thank you for encouraging businesses in the aluminum region!»
SEF Équipements
« Hello, I’m Nicolas, President of SEF Équipements. I created the Hym hand-washing station. Offering a high-quality, durable, and eco-friendly product was a priority for me, especially in this public health context. Choosing aluminum as the material was an inevitable decision. Thanks to the advice, references, and financial support received from the AVS, bringing my product to market and navigating my entrepreneurial journey has been much easier.
I would like to thank the AVS for the guidance provided and for believing in my product.»
Conception Navale FMP
« he team at Conception Navale FMP would like to thank the AVS for its support and guidance, especially in the context of a global pandemic. The financial support allowed us to develop the aluminum sector in the marine industry, offering boats that are high-quality, durable, eco-friendly, and innovative. The guidance provided to our company facilitated valuable networking and proved beneficial during the challenging supply chain context. We are privileged to be able to rely on such expertise here in Quebec! »
Francis Parisé Jr. | Vice-Président Conception navale FMP.
REMAC
« The AVS has been an important ally of REMAC for many years. In addition to financial support, the AVS has provided us with valuable guidance regarding the development of new markets, which will help REMAC ensure its long-term sustainability. We appreciate working with the Société for its deep understanding of the business and economic issues in the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region, as well as its proactive involvement in our projects. »
