News & Events

MONTRÉAL, June 30, 2026

As part of its major restoration project, the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montréal, as well as its Foundation, launch the “Sponsor a stone” program, an initiative allowing individuals and companies to contribute to the work by linking their donation to a stone on the building’s facade. Donors will be able to virtually dedicate a message to future generations when making a donation; then, during a second phase of the experience, locate their stone on the facade and read its personalized inscription through the use of augmented reality.

In this way, public donations committed to the major exterior and interior restoration work, which is currently under way at the Notre-Dame Basilica, take on both a physical and a virtual dimension. In addition to helping preserve one of the city’s iconic landmarks, a witness to Montréal’s history for nearly 200 years, these donations allow individuals or companies to associate their name or that of a loved one to a stone, or to share an inspiring or meaningful message.

Contributing in a personalized manner

“Our mission is to ensure the long-term preservation of this exceptional site for current and future generations”, stated Michel Issa, Chief Executive Officer of La Fabrique de la paroisse Notre-Dame, the organization responsible for the Basilica. “We wanted to give donors the possibility of adding their own personal touch to the project, thus becoming guardians of Notre-Dame. This is a modern and inspiring way to be part of a timeless work.” 

An approach combining technology and digital arts

In order to develop this innovative concept, the Notre-Dame Basilica called upon the expertise of Baldwin Studio, a visual design and creative services firm, as well as that of Dpt, which specializes in developing augmented and mixed reality solutions. By combining their talents and resources, Baldwin Studio and Dpt brought the “Sponsor a stone” initiative to fruition. 

“Our role was to give a tangible form to an act of generosity”, explained Robert Boulos, President and Creative Director of Baldwin Studio. “We designed this experience so that each sponsored stone becomes a genuine link between the donor, the message they share with the public, and this exceptional monument which is a witness to Montréal’s past, present, and future.”

A delicate, large-scale restoration

The “Sponsor a stone” initiative is part of a broad fundraising campaign aimed at financing restoration work estimated at over 100 million dollars; launched in 2017, the work will continue for several more years. La Fabrique de la paroisse Notre-Dame is counting on the support of donors and sponsors to carry out this important project. The work involves the reconstruction of the exterior masonry, as well as the preservation of the interior decorations. Each aspect requires the work of skilled craftspeople who specialize in the restoration and preservation of historic elements, many of which are one-of-a-kind.

Details regarding participation and the conditions of the “Sponsor a stone” initiative are available on the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montréal Foundation’s website.