New residents: Technoparc Montréal welcomes CERASP. In the news: a 43.8 million project in health technologies, visits of Belarus and the young chamber of commerce, 2 galas, Hawaii at the Technoparc, RDV de l’écocitoyen corporatif. Services: tire changes, transport committee, advantage at the Novotel and the monthly tips from our collaborators.

NEW RESIDENTS

CERASP

The CERASP is a College Centre for the Transfer of Technologies (CCTT), an applied research centre affiliated with the “cégeps” and colleges of Quebec. They are a Not for Profit, with a mission to support SMEs working in the pharmaceutical science space. Through their Technical support, Technological development and Information and training sessions, they help industry go from drug discovery to formulation, dedicated to grow the biopharmaceuticals industries in Quebec. More information is available via their Website.

IN THE NEWS

A $43.8 million project in Health Technologies

Congratulations to our Technoparc resident company, SoundBite Medical Solutions, which will receive $8 million in financial support through the BioMed Propulsion program, administered by Investissement Québec. This government financial support will allow the commercial launch of its technology for the treatment of chronic total occlusions of arteries by shock waves. The project, valued at more than $43.8 million, will generate significant economic benefits for Québec by creating 25 high value-added jobs. It will also promote the opening of a global center of excellence in shockwave treatment of chronic and partial occlusions of arteries, thus contributing to the strengthening of Québec’s position as a leader in the treatment of heart diseases. More information via this press release (in French).

Visit of Belarus

Last month at the Technoparc de Montréal, we welcomed the chargé d’affaires of the Embassy of the Republic of Belarus Mr. Evgeny Russak. First steps towards immediate and longer-term collaborations and exchanges. The capital of the Republic of Belarus, Minsk, also has a science and technology park similar to the Technoparc de Montréal. Synergies and exchanges between the companies in our two parks are also targeted, especially with respect to Information Technology (IT). The Republic of Belarus has managed to position itself in IT development and its location at the crossroads between Europe and the vast territory to the east means that future developments are very promising. A good start of collaboration!
Your delegation wants to meet us to discuss collaboration and investment projects? Please contact us by email at info@technoparc.com right away!

The young chamber of commerce at Technoparc

In September at the Technoparc we were happy to greet the Jeune Chambre de Commerce et d’industrie de Saint-Laurent- Mont-Royal (CCSL-MR) to discuss strategies and actions to attract young entrepreneurs into our science and technology park. Common agreement on collaborative communications and coordination of networking events were concluded. A great initiative to ensure the growth of startups and small-sized companies. Get more information on the CCSL-MR on their Website.

Gala Hope for Dementia

The “Hope for Dementia” Gala was held on Friday, September 27th, 2019 at the Whitlock Golf & Country Club in Hudson. More than 175 guests participated in this benefit evening, which raised funds for dementia and Alzheimer’s research. Ms. Luana Borelli and Mr. Carl Baillargeon, both from Technoparc Montréal, hosted the event during which several distinguished guests delivered messages of encouragement. They heard, among others, Ms. Emmanuella Lambropoulos, Member of Parliament for Saint-Laurent, Mr. Peter Schiefke, Member of Parliament for Vaudreuil-Soulanges and Mr. Marc Baaklini, representing Québec’s Prime Minister François Legault. A dance and a music show took place as well as a silent auction with more than 14 prizes to be won. Technoparc Montréal would like to congratulate the team from Hope for Dementia and Novatek International for organizing the Gala and their involvement in this charity. The next gala will be held in March 2019. Mark your calendar!

4 projects at the Technoparc

Did you notice that there is a significant number of projects on the Technoparc de Montréal? The effervescence is felt throughout the site and various works can be noticed everywhere. Firstly, the REM extends along the Alfred-Nobel boulevard to accommodate soon the air structures to the north and the tunnel in the middle that will allow the construction of the underground station at the junction of Boulevard Alfred-Nobel and Rue Alexander-Fleming. Also, to the east, the Vantage Data Centers expansion work is continuing on Rue Marie-Curie. The latter also has a new project in the West to improve the Urgel-Archambault Park, so that it is even more user-friendly for residents of the Technoparc, including the children of the two daycare centers of the site. Finally, in the middle of the Technoparc, on Rue Frederick-Banting, the 50,000-square-foot building of the NEOMED Innovation Center (NIC) is becoming increasingly more visible with the recent installation of its exterior panels. Moreover, all companies in Life Sciences and Health Technologies (LSHT) who want laboratory and / or offices spaces at the NIC can directly contact the CBRE brokers at 514-849-6000 or visit the Website of the NIC.

2019 Innovation Awards Gala

Technoparc Montréal is proud to participate at the 29th Gala des Prix Innovation of the ADRIQ-RCTi, as the presenter of the evening. This event underlines the companies and builders who give a leading role to research and innovation. The ADRIQ-RCTi Innovation Awards Gala, recognized as the most prestigious event of the Quebec innovation community, will take place on Thursday, November 21, 2019 at the Palais des congrès de Montréal. Note that the NEOMED Innovation Center is a finalist for the 2019 Life Sciences Innovation Award, which will be presented again by BIOQuébec and Innovative Medicines Canada.
More than 450 decision-makers from the research and innovation ecosystem and renowned guests are expected. Click this link for more information or to participate.

Hawaii at the Technoparc

Quite a nice escape in September with D-Stress VR at the NEOMED Innovation Center, in the heart of the Technoparc de Montréal. We took a pleasant virtual trip to the beautiful islands of Hawaii. A great way to find relaxation and fuel-up during a busy day at work. Congratulations D-Stress VR, a superb concept! Interested to have D-Stress VR at your workplace? Book now at 1-888-789-4492 or info@dstressvr.com. More information is available on their Website.

Rental availability at the Technoparc de Montréal

Excellent opportunity in a newly constructed LEED silver building, concept of open spaces, glass walls and at the top floor of a 6-story building. The available space is 29,740 square feet. A great opportunity to settle in a prestigious building in the heart of Montreal’s upscale science and technology park. For more information or for a visit, see the descriptions below or contact Pasqualina Monaco at 514-392-9375 or email pmonaco@devencore.comLooking forward to seeing you as new residents at the Technoparc de Montréal!

Technoparc Montréal at the Entretiens Jacques Cartier

Technoparc Montréal is proud to once again participate in this major annual event. This year, the 32nd edition of the Entretiens Jacques Cartier (EJC), the first meeting of France x Québec, will take place from November 4th to 6th, 2019, in Québec and Ottawa. Come and meet more than 4,500 actors, decision-makers from both sides of the Atlantic and from the worlds of economics, culture, science, academia … And exchange with more than 500 speakers and experts, from France, Québec, and Ottawa, around more than 30 French-speaking events, conferences and networking moments, in 30 different locations. Get all the information by visiting the EJC Website.

Superb construction project at the Technoparc

Adjacent to the 7150 Albert-Einstein, this magnificent construction project will make you enjoy unparalleled sunshine, modern architecture, the quality of life recognized at the Technoparc and proximity to the future light train station (REM) for quick access to the airport (3 minutes) or downtown (20 minutes). Welcome to your future prestigious address in the heart of Technoparc. Interested? Contact Carl Baillargeon from Technoparc Montréal at cbaillargeon@technoparc.com for your private visit. You can also see our Website section on rental and purchasing opportunities at the Technoparc.

RDV de l’écocitoyen corporatif

On October 25, 2019 will be held the “RDV de l’écocitoyen corporatif” in which Technoparc Montréal will act as the MC of the event. This morning of exchange aims to equip the entrepreneurs who have not yet followed suit of sustainable development and to present them solutions so that their company is effective and efficient, while capitalizing on eco-responsible practices. Come and meet entrepreneurs from Saint-Laurent, leaders in sustainable development, who will share their best practices and answer your questions. For more information or to register, please click on this link.

RESIDENT SERVICES

The Technoparc de Montréal, an ideal site for new residents!

Not only do we have spaces to rent for SMEs and Startups, but we also have land available for development tailored to your requirements. The following map shows the location of these lands. You will find, among other things:-140 companies operating in high tech and science industries-An incomparable quality of life with more than 28% of green spaces and 17% of protection zones and parks-Commercial services such as restaurants, cafes, hotels, gym, hiking, jogging and cycling trails, daycares, networking events and more!-The dynamic life sciences hub located on Frederick-Banting Street- Collective and alternative transportation services-The future station of the Réseau express métropolitain that will connect you to Montreal Airport in 2 minutes and downtown in 20 minutes-An eco-campus for companies specialized in sustainable development- A team dedicated to your development and support!We are always available to discuss your projects, so do not hesitate to contact us now at info@technoparc.com or 514-956-2525. You can also visit our Website to have more specific details on the lands available for development or leasing. We hope to see you soon on our site!

Tire changes at the Technoparc

Technoparc Montréal offers again a tire installation service on its site with the company Instapneus in the parking lot of the 2300 Alfred-Nobel. The company will be here on October 30th, November 6th and 21st, 2019. To register, please go to the company’s Website at instapneus.com in the section “Inscription pour rendez-vous” + “Rendez-vous à l’entreprise” and select one of the 3 dates that indicate “Technoparc Montréal “. Have a happy “Techno” road this winter!

Transportation Committee

The Transportation Committee of the Technoparc de Montréal met on September 19th, 2019. The committee is made up of several Technoparc companies and its mission is to improve transportation to and from the site. During this fall meeting, the committee focused on several topics such as: possible micro-shuttle project with the company Netlift, improve the public transport service of the STM, extension of the short line 72 at 10pm, modification of the route (from March 2020) for the next year with the studies on the employment zones (the Technoparc is a priority in this study) the STM will improve short and long trips on line 72 (in September 2020) and increase the number of buses on public holidays, plan a new bus line on Henri-Bourassa (2021-2022), find mitigation measures in anticipation of the work of the REM (crossing the 40 and closing of the train), improve the safety of pedestrians around Place Innovation, make the necessary adjustments for snow removal at the Technoparc and educate motorists on the respect of speed limits on the site. There were many points raised and all the participants agreed to ensure a rigorous follow-up. Technoparc Montréal would like to warmly thank all the participants in the transport committee … their collaboration is essential!
To familiarize yourself with our transportation committee, we invite you to consult the section dedicated to it on our Website.

Free custom francisation for your company

Your employees are qualified and competent, but is their knowledge of French hindering their full integration? Les Services aux entreprises de la Commission scolaire Marguerite-Bourgeoys (CSMB) provide French courses that are free for your employees and allow you to be reimbursed for their salaries while in training. From identifying your specific needs and context to delivering training, our advisers will implement a framework (place, time, group format) and tailored content (proficiency levels in French, vocabulary specific to functions performed by participants, corporate culture). More information: michel.lavoie10@csmb.qc.ca Tel.: 514 855-4500, ext. 8820.

Netlift active at the Technoparc de Montréal

Following the launch of the car sharing program at Thales Canada Avionique with the active participation of Ms. Luana Borelli of Technoparc Montréal, Netlift wishes to give all Technoparc companies the opportunity to discover the benefits of microtransit. That’s why they offer a special “Technoparc” promotion. Indeed, Netlift will offer half-price rides to Technoparc employees for a few months. Certain conditions apply. You can contact Netlift through their Website for more details.

“Technoparc” advantage at the Novotel

The Novotel hotel, located at the entrance of the Technoparc, is proud to offer you a preferential rate, as an exclusive benefit available for resident companies of the Technoparc de Montréal. To benefit from these great rates, please click on this link.
The “Customer code” is SC201061335 and the “Access Code” is TE843CA684. Also note that the Technoparc Novotel hotel’s code is 6011. Identification will be required upon check-in. Do not forget to share with your visitors too. Enjoy your “Techno” stay at the Novotel!

Innovation centers at the Technoparc

Did you know that there are two innovation centers in the heart of the Technoparc? They are open to all sizes of businesses, from start-ups to SMEs, who wish to establish themselves in the largest science and high technology park in Canada. These two centers of innovation already have more than forty companies, which encourages easy exchanges, which ultimately can become commercial collaborations. There are still some spaces available in our two centers, contact us at info@technoparc.com. More info on our 2 innovation centers are available through our Website.

Bistro open to all residents of the Technoparc de Montréal

For those who do not know it, the Bistro of the NEOMED Institute is open to all during lunch hours, from noon to 1 pm. Located on the ground floor of the NÉOMED Institute (7171 rue Frederick-Banting), the Bistro welcomes you with different dishes every day of the week.Take advantage of their weekly menus, served by the Bistro’s chef, the friendly Sasha, waiting for you every day with his big smile and impeccable service. Enjoy your meals!

Zoom resident: Cerebrasol

Cerebrasol specializes in the design and delivery of focused preclinical research packages, using electrophysiological recording techniques for nervous system indications such as pain, neurodegeneration (Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease), psychiatric disorders, movement disorders and obesity. They prepare your compounds for clinical development by providing a flexible, highly skilled service with fast turnaround tailored to their clients’ needs, delivering key proof-of-concept, drug efficacy, mechanism of action data and more. Get more information through their Website.

Monthly Sustainability Tips & Insights from ERA:
3 frameworks for an environmental management system

Last month we discussed what business environmental management is and why it’s necessary. Having an environmental management system (EMS) is an important tool in keeping you in compliance with environmental regulations. EMS can take many forms: a set of processes, a series of paper forms, various spreadsheets, software, and more. Your ideal set up will depend on your team size and resources.
There are 3 common frameworks for EMS:
ISO 14001:2015. ISO (International Organization for Standardization) publishes best practices that can be implemented and adapted to any size business. ISO offers certifications based on adherence to the standards. Anyone considering ISO 14001:2015 environmental management should know that you’ll need to crunch numbers, do recordkeeping and write reports to get certified.
Plan-Do-Check-Act. “Plan-Do-Check-Act” cycle is another simple model for creating your business’ EMS. It lays out a foundation to set compliance goals, measure them, and try to learn lessons from your successes and mistakes.
EMS Software. There are countless data points that need to be measured, tracked, and accounted for in EH&S. With the right software, data can easily be collected on incoming materials, outgoing emissions, process efficiency, sustainability – the sky is the limit.
The purpose of an Environmental Management System like the ones listed above is to get you to collect, analyze and act on environmental data. Any size business can implement some version of the above EMS frameworks, even if you don’t have government compliance requirements. An EMS will help you improve your overall performance and efficiency.
Questions about this tip? For more information, please send an email to ERA at info@era-ehs.com or see their Website

The Monthly Web Marketing Advice by Expandify:
Are you optimizing your business with chatbots?

Have you ever thought of the process your customers have to go through to contact your business? Customer service is one of the most important forms of retention to keep your customers in your business. In most cases, many find the experience very slow and frustrating because customer support agents aren’t qualified enough and have limited knowledge and resources to actually help solve important issues.
Luckily, developments in technology over the past few years have provided many businesses with the solution for a faster and better customer service: chatbots. Chatbots are computer programs designed to simulate conversation with human users over the Internet. Chatbots can be found on the popular Facebook Messenger platform and on company Websites. A popular chatbot platform used by digital marketers is ManyChat. ManyChat is one of the top bot platforms for Facebook Messenger and they are changing the way businesses talk to their customers across marketing, commerce, and support. Chatbot platforms like ManyChat have the ability to improve every aspect of your customer service by digging through huge amounts of data to pick out the best solution for a customer, whether it is a troubleshooting solution or a recommendation for a new product to try. In other words, a well-optimized chatbot flow can be very helpful when it comes to boosting your conversion rates. Moreover, it can always transfer a customer to speak to a real human support agent for more complicated tasks. With today’s advancements in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, the possibilities are endless. To help you grasp the reality of the virtual assistance shift in our digital era, here are some numbers:
By 2020, 85% of engagement with businesses will be done by using self-service options and chatbots. — Gartner
6 billion connected devices will proactively ask for support by 2018 — Gartner
85% of customer interactions will be managed without a human by 2020. — Gartner
44% of executives believe artificial intelligence’s most important benefit is “automated communications that provide data that can be used to make decisions.” — Narrative Science
10k+ developers are building chatbots on Facebook Messenger. — Facebook
Many companies have already noticed this trend and took action to take full advantage of all the benefits chatbots can provide to their businesses. Chatbots are the next big thing in customer service and can even replace traditional communication means such as emails in the not-so-distant future. The real potential of chatbots is found in the efficiency and accessibility of the platform. In fact, numerous customers prefer them over calling an agent because of the faster and less overwhelming services. With automated processes, chatbots can also help save money for companies and boost efficiency. Since most chatbots are already implemented on popular messenger apps that have billions of users, it is simple to set up an efficient chatbot that interacts with potential customers.
To learn more about the best practices discussed here, get in contact with Expandify Marketing which offers you a free strategic planning session! You can contact their team: by phone (514) 973-2083 or email contact@expandify.ca. You can also visit their Website.

Molecular Forecaster: get informed before contracting in silico research

This month, we suggest some questions you might ask should you seek out computational assistance for your drug discovery program.
As we laid out in our first newsletter contribution, computational chemistry is useful for small biotechs and large pharma companies to accelerate discovery programs. You can outsource those needs to small, specialized companies offering research services, like us. It will save you time and money by honing in on better drug candidates earlier in the pipeline. Here are questions to ask your prospective vendor before deciding who to contract (in no particular order):
Do you retain any IP on discovered molecules?
Will you provide the raw data from any simulations?
Will you provide detailed reports about the research protocols?
Do you use your own software or license from a third-party? Is it modifiable?
Is there an opportunity to gain insight into the methodology for future self-service?
Do you offer FTE-based contracts and/or project-based contracts?
How are projects formatted? Is the research “all-or-nothing” or are there “go/no-go” stages? Do you check in along the way to discuss progress?
Where is the data from my project stored, and what happens to it once the project is complete?
Do you have a non-compete clause for my molecules, target, or disease of interest?
Since computational chemistry is but one tool in the drug discovery toolbox, it is not always a viable approach for a project. We recommend that you challenge any claims of guaranteed success to probe the transparency and honesty of your prospective partner.
If you’d like to learn more or inquire about their software and services, please don’t hesitate to reach out. E-mail them at info@molecularforecaster.com, or visit their Website.