The Government of Canada has increased its financial support for the future St. Lawrence Shark Pavilion project in Sainte-Anne-des-Monts as construction officially begins on the new tourism and science facility.
Federal authorities announced an additional C$700,000 in funding, bringing the total government contribution to C$3.8 million. The project is being developed by Exploramer Museum and is designed to promote public awareness of shark species increasingly observed in the St. Lawrence River ecosystem.
The pavilion will offer interactive and immersive educational experiences focused on marine biodiversity, shark conservation, and the ecological importance of sharks within the St. Lawrence marine environment. Officials say the project is expected to strengthen tourism, science education, and regional economic development across the Gaspé Peninsula and Eastern Canada.
Construction is expected to continue over the coming months, with the facility scheduled to open during the summer of 2027. In addition to federal support, the project is receiving funding from the Government of Quebec, regional authorities, private foundations, tourism organizations, and corporate partners. Exploramer itself is also contributing more than C$3 million to the development.
The funding comes through the federal government’s Build Communities Strong Fund, a long-term infrastructure programme aimed at supporting regional growth, community resilience, and economic development across Canada. The initiative forms part of a broader national infrastructure strategy focused on strengthening local economies and supporting sustainable tourism and educational projects.
Canadian officials say the Shark Pavilion will serve not only as a tourism attraction but also as a hub for scientific outreach and environmental education. The project is expected to generate economic activity for local communities while promoting greater understanding of marine conservation challenges in the region.
The Build Communities Strong Fund includes major investments in infrastructure projects nationwide, with funding directed toward community development, healthcare infrastructure, Indigenous communities, and regional economic initiatives.
