The Largest Private Contribution to the Sports and Cultural Complex Project
Sept-Îles, August 25, 2026 – Surrounded by local elected officials, employees, and representatives from partner organizations, Claude Gosselin, President and CEO of Aluminerie Alouette, announced a $2 million donation to the City of Sept-Îles as part of the project to build new sports infrastructure. This investment was eagerly anticipated by the community, as the city’s largest private employer has been recognized for its sustained involvement in the Sept-Rivières RCM for nearly 35 years.
This significant contribution is part of Aluminerie Alouette’s new Community Development Fund, created following the company’s most recent electricity supply contract, under which it has committed to investing $15 million over the next 10 years.
“Today, thanks to the support of our shareholders—who are convinced of the importance of local benefits—we are investing in the next generation from all walks of life—athletes and artists, Innu and North Shore residents—who will be able to benefit from a unifying space that lives up to the standards of the people here. Access to quality municipal services is fundamental to the region’s development avoiding the need for fly-in/fly-out work. Adequate sports facilities in a welcoming environment help retain families and attract new talent.”
– Claude Gosselin, President and CEO of Aluminerie Alouette
“Aluminerie Alouette’s contribution strengthens a project made possible in large part by our $24 million investment. It is a fine example of the power of a partnership between the community, a committed company, and our government to provide our region with a unifying and sustainable sports infrastructure. I am particularly proud to see a commitment I made in 2022 come to fruition.”
– Kateri Champagne Jourdain, Minister of Natural Resources and Forests and Member of the National Assembly for Duplessis
“Aluminerie Alouette is a committed partner in the development of our community, not only through its leading role in the region’s economy, but also through its contribution to projects and initiatives that make Sept-Îles a vibrant and supportive city. More than just financial support, Aluminerie Alouette’s significant financial contribution to the construction of the new arena is a powerful gesture—an investment in the community, in families, in young people, and in the future of Sept-Îles. On behalf of the City of Sept-Îles, I would like to sincerely thank Mr. Claude Gosselin and his entire team for their support and trust.”
– Benoit Méthot, Mayor of the City of Sept-Îles
This new complex will meet the needs of the community, contribute to the city’s development through its appeal, and foster a sense of belonging and pride among the community and the Aluminerie Alouette team. The facade facing Laure Boulevard will feature the company’s logo and the message “Fièrement partenaire” (Proud Partner), and the company’s colors will also be incorporated elsewhere on the premises.
Aluminerie Alouette, certified as an “Entreprise en santé Élite” (Elite Healthy Entreprise), is proud to simultaneously promote an active lifestyle and healthy habits for young people, adults, and seniors in Sept-Îles and Uashat mak Mani-utenam.
About the Project
The new building will include an NHL-standard-sized ice rink and an amphitheater with a capacity of 1,800 people. The new facilities will be fully accessible, particularly for people with reduced mobility. The building will be equipped with high-performance, energy-efficient refrigeration and ventilation systems that, in addition to improving spectator comfort, will allow for year-round use. This represents a total investment of $78.5 million, for which the City of Sept-Îles has received $20 million in financial assistance from the Government of Quebec under the Financial Assistance Program for Recreational, Sports, and Outdoor Infrastructure, and $4 million from the Société du Plan Nord. Other private partners are also participating in the project, which, with today’s announcement, has secured $28.1 million in financial partnerships to date.
