In 2006, BRP invested $3.6 million to expand its R&D centre in Valcourt and $15.6 million in a partnership with Université de Sherbrooke to create an advanced technologies centre. This new investment will bring under one roof the Sherbrooke and Valcourt design and advanced concept teams.

“BRP ranks among the leaders in a constantly changing industry where competition is increasing because of globalization,” said José Boisjoli, president and chief executive officer, BRP. “In this environment, it is critical to bring our design teams together to increase synergies among the various groups and enhance our ability to create the most innovative and competitive products.”

The first phase of the project will begin this spring with the demolition of buildings located between BRP’s head office and the Manoir Bombardier in Valcourt. With 5,000 square metres (54,000 sq ft) of space, the new building will be more user-friendly and feature several workshops and integrated demonstration rooms. The new design and innovation centre will also be better adapted to the needs of employees and visitors and will become BRP's showcase. More than 50 employees will move to the new facility in 2008.

The project also involves relocating the competition team to an existing building, moving the procurement department to the research centre, and adding parking spaces.