BOURSE entreprendre ici 2025

The latest gala of the Quebec entrepreneurial ecosystem was far more than a one-time celebration: it was a moment of assessment, clarification of priorities, and reaffirmation of a collective vision. At the heart of the discussions, a clear and structured message emerged—four fundamental pillars: recognition, investment, congratulation, and engagement. These words, spoken with sincerity by the event’s spokesperson, are not mere pleasantries, but the foundations of a deliberate strategy to strengthen the resilience and ambition of local businesses.

Ibrahim KABORE

Recognition was first extended to institutional actors and public partners who, despite budgetary constraints, managed to preserve the essential freedom of action required for innovation. “It’s not just funding that matters, but the trust placed in the autonomy of local actors,” emphasized the speaker, applauding the central role of the board of directors and its logistical team, whose coordination “was executed seamlessly, despite tight deadlines.” This recognition also extends to reference organizations and experts who, through their rigorous evaluation, enabled the selection of 50 finalists from hundreds of applications, using a tripartite methodology integrating technical analyses, oral pitches, and sector-specific expertise.

Investment in the ecosystem is not a cost, but a multiplier of growth. Honorary scholarships, far from being symbolic grants, represent strategic levers: “When an entrepreneur reports $50,000 in revenue, a $5,000 scholarship represents half of their immediate growth potential,” he recalled. This is not merely financial assistance—it is a signal of confidence. Sponsors, whose support is decisive for the very viability of the gala, play a catalytic role: “The success of this event is measured by the quality of our partnerships, not by the splendor of the venue,” he insisted. The goal is clear: transform every dollar invested into jobs, innovation, and talent retention.

Congratulatory remarks were addressed to all entrepreneurs, whether laureates or not. “The scholarship is a temporary lever, but your journey is your true capital,” he affirmed. This distinction is crucial: it restores dignity and responsibility to the private sector. Even finalists who were not awarded still deserve ongoing support. The message is clear: the ecosystem is not measured solely by its winners, but by the depth of its entrepreneurial fabric. Testimonies received by juries confirm that this evaluation model—combining finance, mentorship, and research—has become a benchmark across Quebec’s regions.

Christopher Skeete

Beyond figures and structures, another discourse marked the evening: that of diversity as a strategic asset. The newly appointed Minister of International Relations recalled with emotion that “in Quebec’s history, only six ministers of African descent have ever been appointed—three in the past six years.” This progress, slow but tangible, reflects a Quebec in transformation. “When I look at you, I see the future,” he declared. He underscored that the cultural and familial ties of entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds are not secondary advantages, but natural bridges to global markets still largely untapped. “Sixty percent of Quebec businesses do not export. Seventy-three percent of our exports go to the United States. We have a unique competitive advantage: globally connected networks already present here.”

The final challenge is clear and ambitious: “Dream big. Go international. Conquer these markets on behalf of Quebec, as Quebeckers.” This is not a call for emigration, but for expansion. Quebec’s economic future is no longer built solely within its cities, but within its transnational networks. The entrepreneurs present tonight are not merely business creators—they are ambassadors of a modern, dynamic economic identity, deeply rooted in diversity. Their mission is no longer merely to succeed, but to open. And it is they, today, who bear the responsibility of making Quebec an indispensable player on the global stage.