CHALLENGE
Owing to the “Innovation Signature” component of the Regions and Rurality Fund (RRF) implemented by Québec’s Ministère des Affaires municipales et de l’Habitation, RCMs can develop a distinctive niche for their territory. The Manicouagan RCM wanted to be part of this movement and it had strong foundations upon which to build and move forward in this development process. Aside from the importance of the niche itself, the program “promotes collaboration, consultation and synergy among local stakeholders.” In addition to working with the elected officials and professional teams of the RCM and all the municipalities involved, the purpose of the project was to pool the collective intelligence of the stakeholders and citizens involved in the community, in order to develop and implement initiatives likely to help build the RCM’s brand image, reputation and innovation know-how.
PROPOSED SOLUTION
MU Conseils supported the Manicouagan RCM in a consultation process with local stakeholders aimed at defining the foundations on which to build its niche. Participatory workshops held in each RCM sector were designed to encourage discussion and cross-sectoral cooperation.
RESULTS
- 4 consultation workshops were held in each RCM geographical sector, bringing together a total of 48 stakeholders from various sectors of activity
- Clear reassertion of the Manicouagan values, which not only shape the region’s identity and foster a sense of belonging, but also rekindle the wish to make the post of collaborative work in a spirit of synergy
- Drafting of an agreement conducive to innovative projects likely to strengthen collective commitment towards the territory
