The Palais des congrès de Montréal becomes tourism innovation incubator MT Lab’s Grand Partner

The Palais des congrès de Montréal recently became a Grand Partner of MT Lab, North America’s first innovation incubator dedicated to tourism, culture and entertainment. The partnership will see the Palais work with Montréal startups to develop the convention centre of the future. By working actively with emerging companies, the Palais will stimulate innovation in its own industry and benefit from the expertise of Montréal entrepreneurs to foster lasting experiences for event participants, primarily through technology and by appealing to the different senses.

“Montréal is a city of innovation brimming with talent. The Palais has a role to play in the city’s creative ecosystem, and we firmly believe there are young local companies that can make a difference in our industry’s development,” said Robert Mercure, President and CEO of the Palais des congrès de Montréal. “We can give them incredible international exposure, and in the process provide our customers with an outstanding event experience,” he added.

Emerging companies from Québec have until March 15 to apply to join MT Lab’s third cohort of startups, for a chance to collaborate with the Palais on revolutionizing the event industry. The one-year incubation program will enable entrepreneurs to come up with and present brilliant solutions for tangible situations as determined by the Palais and the partners of MT Lab.

“In becoming MT Lab’s Grand Partner, the Palais confirms the leadership role it intends to play within Montréal’s innovation ecosystem. Our mission is to expedite the process of bringing small businesses and large corporations together for the purpose of testing local entrepreneurs’ solutions and helping them break into the market. For startups, collaborating with the Palais will open up the entire field of business tourism for them to ply their innovations,” indicated Martin Lessard, Chief Executive of MT Lab.

The Palais des congrès will therefore be joining forces with its partner Tourisme Montréal in creating value for the industry, by providing a showcase for these promising Montréal entrepreneurs while also encouraging the development of creative solutions to support business tourism efforts.

“Tourisme Montréal wishes to underline the Palais des congrès de Montréal’s focus on innovation and its active involvement with the MT Lab incubator ecosystem. Business tourism is a key component of Montréal’s tourism industry and the Palais’ leadership will render us that much more competitive as a host city,” declared Pierre Bellerose, Vice-President of Tourisme Montréal and Chairman of MT Lab’s board.

A new vision coming into focus for the Palais

These partnerships are part of a series of tangible steps that speak to the vitality behind the Palais’ new vision. Montréal is known worldwide for its energy and “joie de vivre.” It is fertile ground for innovation. The Palais will help drive this effervescence by actively advocating for the city and its distinct brand of creativity. Consequently, all future projects will be guided by these four pillars:

• Living to the beat of the Montréal community;
• Showcasing local scientists and creatives;
• Giving visitors a fascinating experience;
• Helping define the convention centre of tomorrow.

For more information on the new vision, click here.