Sherbrooke, November 13th, 2024 - An announcement that will strengthen Sherbrooke's entrepreneurial ecosystem was made today by the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of National Revenue and MP for Compton-Stanstead, and Élisabeth Brière, MP for Sherbrooke. During their visit to Défi Polyteck, they revealed a major investment of $16 million over four years to support key economic incubators in our region, including ACET and Espace-inc. This initiative aims to help emerging companies and innovative start-ups develop and grow.
A strategic investment in the future of the local economy
Canada Economic Development for the Regions (CED) will invest in thirteen organizations across Quebec, including Espace-inc and ACET, to support projects that create wealth and impact. In Sherbrooke, Espace-inc will receive $1.6 million and ACET $2 million over the next four years. These funds will enable these incubators to continue to support innovative companies, accompany young entrepreneurs and strengthen the local economic ecosystem.
Support for these incubators goes far beyond mere financial investment. The aim is to help deploy the talents and innovations they support, while maximizing the impact of the funding. This support also aims to improve entrepreneurs' access to the services they need to grow their businesses, and to strengthen the regional network of entrepreneurs, making it easier for them to connect and collaborate.
Recognition for the work of ACET and Espace-inc
The two incubators, ACET and Espace-inc, are key players in Sherbrooke's economic development. They have played a central role in supporting hundreds of young local companies, contributing to the growth of numerous startups that today shine on the local and national scene thanks to their innovative products and value-creating solutions.
Élisabeth Brière, MP for Sherbrooke, emphasizes the importance of this investment:
“Our region's economic development is propelled by the emergence of start-ups, whose creativity and innovation create wealth. The results of the work of ACET and Espace-inc are no longer a secret to the Sherbrooke business community. These incubators have supported hundreds of young companies, now recognized for their achievements. I'm proud that our government recognizes their work and continues to support these emerging innovative companies.”
Concrete examples of supported companies: Hot Poc
Among the companies that have benefited from the support of these incubators is Hot Poc, a Sherbrooke startup founded by Sabrina Hémond. Hot Poc stands out for its reusable hand warmers, a local innovation that has made a name for itself on the market. Sabrina Hémond expressed her gratitude for the support provided by these incubators:
“Thanks to the support of ACET and Espace-inc, we have been able to develop a product that meets a real need in the market, while respecting our ecological and innovation values. This financing will support our growth and extend our reach.”
A promising future for innovative companies
Today's announcement is a clear signal that the federal government is committed to supporting innovation and entrepreneurship in Quebec. By supporting incubators such as ACET and Espace-inc, Canada Economic Development is actively helping to create jobs, develop innovative products and build a sustainable economy for the future.
These investments will enable new ideas, products and businesses to see the light of day, consolidating Sherbrooke as a true hub of innovation and fertile ground for startups. The future looks bright for Sherbrooke's entrepreneurial ecosystem, with more and more budding entrepreneurs ready to seize the opportunities offered by these incubators.
Conclusion
With this announcement, Sherbrooke is taking an important step towards a more diversified and robust economic future, supported by innovative local businesses. ACET and Espace-inc will continue to play a central role in supporting young entrepreneurs and the growth of the local ecosystem. Thanks to this financial support, these incubators will have the resources they need to pursue their mission and continue shaping the future of tomorrow's businesses.
