Author: Lyne Lebrasseur

Gaspesie and Magdalen Islands, June 25^th, 2024. The SADCs of the Gaspesie and the Magdalen Islands are delighted by the announcement made by the Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED) at the Réseau des SADC et CAE’s 20th annual congress regarding new five-year funding agreements concluded between CED, the Réseau and Quebec’s 67 SADCs (sociétés d’aide au développement des collectivités) and CAEs (centres d’aide aux entreprises).

These investments, totalling $245 million, will ensure that Quebec’s 67 SADCs and CAEs and their network can continue to operate and to equitably deliver their main business lines (local economic development and support and funding for entrepreneurs) throughout rural and semi-urban Quebec. To be more specific in Gaspesie and the Magdalen Islands, the SADCs of Bay Chaleur, Gaspe, Haute Gaspesie, Rocher-Perce and Magdalen Islands will have 16 million dollars of investment funding at their disposal. The SADCs and CAEs will also strengthen their local interventions, notably by augmenting their activities to answer the present economic issues facing entrepreneurs. The SADCs and CAEs will also be able to strengthen their work at the local level and enhance their efforts to address the economic issues that entrepreneurs are currently facing.

“Quebec’s regions are dealing with their own particular economic challenges, and the SADCs and CAEs are here to help them rise to meet those challenges,” says. Aurele Doucet, regional representative on the Network Board of directors, “We have great ambitions for our regions. With our main business partner, Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, and in collaboration with local partners, we will continue to drive collective and business projects forward to success.”

 

Targeted investment to address issues facing entrepreneurs

This new agreement with the Government of Canada will enable SADCs and CAEs to create new financial products to help entrepreneurs tackle their priority economic issues, such as the digital and green transition and various aspects of business transfers and youth entrepreneurship. These investments represent $600,000 for each of the Region’s SADCs.

The funds come from repayments by entrepreneurs who received loans through the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund, a Government of Canada fund established in 2020 in response to the challenges of the COVID-19 health crisis.

 

Funding to strengthen our local efforts and draw on the Reseau’s vast network of national expertise

A $28 million envelope, also derived from Regional Relief and Recovery Fund loan repayments, will enable each SADC and CAE, as well as the Réseau as a whole, to build their capacity to support clients. Mainly, each SADC and CAE will have access to $335,000 in additional funding to support its work in local economic development and technical support for entrepreneurs. The Réseau will receive an envelope as well, so it can strengthen its advisory role and provide more services to the 67 SADCs and CAEs, including by hiring new shared resources and providing increased support for optimizing business processes.

 

“SADCs and CAEs make a real difference in our communities and our businesses, all across Quebec,” said the Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for CED. “For 29 years now, CED has been proud to be able to count on the Réseau and its members as true key partners in achieving prosperity in our regions and their businesses. Bravo to the professionals and volunteers in your organizations who are such attentive stewards of Quebec’s regional entrepreneurial ecosystem.”

The Honorable, Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Tourism Minister and Minister responsible for CED.

 

Overall, these new agreements will enable SADCs and CAEs to carry out their missions close to home while drawing on the expertise of the Réseau’s vast network to assist their local communities and entrepreneurs. ”Their efforts are skilled, personalized and people-focused, as witnessed by Joe Dugas, owner of Joe Dugas et Fils Inc. Nouvelle: The SADC was a benefit for us, we were able to buy other transport companies and expand our business, were able to access loans with advantageous interest rates to buy electric buses. Furthermore, we appreciated the support offered to help us re-organise the new work tasks required due to expansion.”

 

Some SADC and CAE impacts on Quebec’s economy

Investing in SADCs and CAEs pays off! According to an Aviseo Conseil study, between 2019 and 2023, SADCs and CAEs increased Quebec’s real GDP by $458 million. Of that total, $85 million came from our loan investments and $273 million was generated by the improved five-year survival rate of companies supported by SADCs and CAEs. A Statistics Canada study found that the five‑year survival rate for SADC and CAE clients was more than double that of other businesses.

The SADC Network (Community development Agencies) and CAE (Business Help Centres) is a grouping of 57 SADCs and 10 CAEs who have been working for the last 35 years for economic development in their communities. This is 10000 professional workers and volunteers who support and finance more than 10000 entrepreneurs and over 1000 local economic development projects each year.  www.sadc-cae.ca

 

Community Futures Program (CFP)

This Canada-wide program supports local economic development and strengthens communities’ capacity to sustainably achieve their full potential. Its main objectives are:

• Stability, economic growth and job creation
• Diversified, competitive local economies in rural areas
• Developing sustainable communities

For this program, CED provides financial support to the SADCs and CAEs that are working in community development in Quebec’s regions.

 

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND INTERVIEW REQUESTS, PLEASE CONTACT: 

 

Réseau des SADC et CAE

Christine Pilote, Communications Director

581 999-6363

[email protected]

 

SADC de Baie-des-Chaleurs

Lyne Lebrasseur, General Manager

418 759-1555, poste 222

[email protected]

 

SADC du Rocher-Percé

Maryse Lelièvre, General Manager

418 689-5699, poste 202

[email protected]

 

SADC de Gaspé

Dave Lavoie, General Manager

418 368-2906, poste 5

[email protected]

 

SADC de la Haute-Gaspésie

Richard Marin, General Manager

418 763-5355, poste 225

[email protected]

 

SADC des Îles-de-la-Madeleine

Daniel Gaudet, General Manager

418 986-4601, poste 223

[email protected]

Sébastien Bernard and Louis Parent acquired the Point S Garage in Nouvelle, in February 2022. Already co-owners of the neighbouring Transport Philippe Day enterprise, they saw a unique chance to complement both businesses. A meeting with both partners about the garage, which was re-named Mécanique SL and which obtained support from the Baie-des-Chaleurs SADC.

A Thumbnail Sketch of the Enterprise
Mécanique SL features automobile mechanical work, tire sales and installation, trailer repair, automobile esthetics and air conditioning repair. The business also sells heavy truck parts in a department which will be expanding shortly.

In What Way is your Business Unique?
Mécanique SL is distinguished by the quality and efficiency of its service and the courtesy of its staff, a comment which is often mentioned. Its clientele feels confident about doing business with Mécanique SL. “I often give advice or explanations to persons who come to see me, even by phone”! mentioned Louis, who has 13 years of experience as a heavy equipment mechanic. Its clientele also appreciates the various means available to contact garage staff members, including text messages.

Why did You Choose to be in Business?
When Transport Philippe Day was put up for sale, Sébastien and Louis, who were working there, seized the opportunity to purchase it. Both partners wanted the business to remain in the region. “This is important to us” said Sébastien. I’ve been here for 30 years and I wanted it to continue!” When they heard that the Point S garage was going to close, they also wanted to purchase it. “Slowly but surely we noted an increase in parts sales at Philippe Day. We planned on enlarging the business,” mentioned Louis. The partners finally decided to purchase the Point S garage. “It would remain local and it would allow us to undertake other ventures,” said Sébastien. This was “a great opportunity to maintain mechanical services and parts sales” added Louis.

How did Support From the SADC Help You?
“Very important financial support. We had a great helping hand and support” affirmed Sébastien. “If there’s a problem, we can call them at any time. No matter what the problem may be, we talk from time to time and they remind us of their services. They can contribute to the expansion of the business.”

Tell us About a Noteworthy Achievement of Which You are Especially Proud as a Business Person Regarding Sustainable Development.

For now, Mécanique SL participates by buying locally. “We really encourage local businesses a lot” says Sébastien. This is “scratch my back, I’ll scratch yours:” “By encouraging local businesses, in turn they come to our garage” he added. The business also disposes of waste material according to standards in force. In addition, it is getting ready to train its mechanics for electric vehicles.

What Advice Would You Give to Anyone Who is Considering Starting up a Business in the Baie-des-Chaleurs Region?
“Partner with the right persons, such as the SADC” mentioned Sébastien. “Sometimes people hesitate to call on organizations we have locally. There are a lot of things that people don’t know about the services they have!” According to him, you have to be deeply involved in a business to ensure its success. “You have to have a good state of mind, try to understand people and actively listen.”

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About the Co-owners
Sébastien Bernard began working at Transport Philippe Day as a trucker and then as a dispatcher and finally general director. Louis Parent has 13 years of experience as a heavy equipment mechanic, including 10 years at Transport Philippe Day.

Antoni Gasse founded Gasse Électrique inc. in 2018, at Nouvelle. Justin Simoneau, who joined the team in 2020, quickly showed his mettle and has become a co-owner in the beginning of 2023. A meeting with Antoni and Justin about the business, which obtained support from the SADC Baie-des-Chaleurs.

 

A Thumbnail Sketch of the Business

Gasse Électrique inc. features a broad variety of electrical services, whether for construction projects, residential, commercial or industrial renovation. Employing nine persons, the business has electricians in Bonaventure, Maria, Carleton-sur-Mer and Nouvelle. It is poised to quickly meet the needs of its clientele within the area it serves, from Matapédia to Paspébiac.

In What Way is your Business Unique?

“As far as efficiency is concerned” affirmed Justin. We have a good operational structure which allows us to serve our clients well. We can meet their needs rapidly.” According to Antoni, Gasse Électrique inc. is also outstanding due to its young and dynamic team plus another important asset: “We do not lack manpower. Employees come to us and don’t see why they should leave. Quality of life is essential for us and we are very flexible. Our vision is to have the right persons for the right job.”

Why did You Choose to be in Business?

Antoni worked as an electrician outside of Quebec, where he managed large construction sites and work teams. He enjoyed doing this. He then came back. “I’m a Gaspesian through and through and my goal is to remain in the region.” He also wanted to remain with his family. “After working for a local company, I decided to make the leap myself. I saw that as a challenge.” Justin was hired by Gasse Électrique inc. in 2020 as an electrician. After some time, he wanted to become more involved in the business. “There is a management side to me. I like to discover opportunities, to see how to be more efficient and proactive. I told Antoni that I could take care of these aspects.” This is how they became partners. “Antoni is a guy from Nouvelle, who knows everybody. I’m from the outside and I am objective. Things fitted in just right because of this merging!”

How did Support From the SADC Help You?

Antoni had a loan from the SADC Youth Strategy Program to purchase a building with office space and a garage to store the equipment. “The building is a great advantage, underlined Justin. We can have an inventory. That make us much more efficient.” The business also obtained financing from the SADC for accounting support to optimize its management model. This support allowed Gasse Électrique inc. to have a dashboard and to reorganize its administration.

Tell us About a Noteworthy Achievement of Which You are Especially Proud as a Businessperson.

“Just having gone through the pandemic is a victory in itself!” mentioned Antoni. “We were not as financially sound as we are now.” Antoni and Justin said that they are very proud of the subsequent growth of the business! “Over the last two years now, we managed to hire good employees and we completed our partnership” said Justin. “We purchased two additional service vehicles and hired an extraordinary administrative assistant. We concluded structuring business partnerships. The company, which has grown, has allowed us to obtain interesting and stimulating contracts.”

What Advice Would You Give to Anyone Who is Considering Starting up a Business in the Baie-des-Chaleurs Region?

“Partner with someone who comes from here” said Justin, laughing. Originally from Quebec City, he appreciates being in business with someone from the area who knows everyone. On the other hand, he has an external viewpoint which is a complement to a local viewpoint. More seriously however, according to him, to embark in a business, you have to know how to delve into it, you “need a head on your shoulders and you have to take good advice.” He added that quality and painstaking attention to detail are especially important in a small area. “There is extra pressure because of that.” He also recommends focussing on satisfied persons. “They are the ones who’ll call you back!”

 

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About Antoni Gasse and Justin Simoneau

A master electrician, Antoni Gasse founded Gasse Électrique inc., in Nouvelle, in 2018. Hired by a company as an electrician in the beginning of 2020, Justin Simoneau officially became a partner in February 2023.

Co-owner of Subaru New Richmond since 2010, René Leblanc has also acquired Ford New Richmond with Adam and André Leblanc (his brothers) and Matthew O’Reilly in 2018. Together, they undertook major enlargement work for the Subaru dealership and the construction of a new building for Ford. A meeting with René about these businesses, which recently received support from the SADC Baie-des-Chaleurs.

 

A Thumbnail Sketch of the Businesses

Ford and Subaru New Richmond feature a broad range of new and previously-owned vehicles. Whether in the sales department, the after-sales service department or in the maintenance department, their teams ensure a warm welcome and personalized service. Both businesses are sure to meet the needs of purchasers and owners of Ford and Subaru vehicles in the Gaspésie region, while having a young and dynamic approach to customer experience. There is a total of 27 members in their combined teams.

In What Way are your Businesses Unique?

“We are different due to the family approach we have as owners-occupiers,” says René. He and his partners try to give their businesses a human and personalized aspect and they want their businesses to stay open in the coming years. “We are locals and we are not afraid of letting our roots grow here. We are involved in all kinds of endeavours. We are a local business that participates in development initiatives.”

Why did You Choose to be in Business?

“I became involved in business when I was 21 years old, said René. (. . .) I was doing a bachelor degree in kinesiology. My brother Adam was a mechanic in Quebec City.” Adam proposed to René to purchase a “garage” together. After mulling it about, René, who was always enthused about automobiles, decided to go along. “If we’re there today, its because Peter [Cyr, the owner of Subaru at that time] decided to sell to two youngsters. He saw us as succeeding him and showed us the ins and outs.”

How did Support From the SADC Help You?

“The SADC was always there for each project!” said René, who specified that on several occasions he and his partners obtained financing from the Investment Fund and from the Stratégie jeunesse program for both their businesses. “But the greatest support from the SADC was not monetary, it was infusing confidence in this project.” René underlined that once SADC support was ensured, “the other partners got on board” more easily.

Tell us about a noteworthy achievement of which you are especially proud as an entrepreneur.

 “Our Ford plan,” said René, referring to the building erected in 2021. According to him, everything was thought out by the four partners: the site, lighting, walking distance inside the building, etc. “We visited several buildings and we sat down at the design table. We thought out the plan, worked on it and designed it so well that Ford bought it from us and it is now a prototype for a type D dealership.” According to René, for dealerships with an annual sales volume similar to Ford New Richmond, “this is the frame that’s going to be used throughout the world!”

What advice would you give to anyone who is considering starting up a business in the Baie-des-Chaleurs region?

“Ask yourself if that’s really what you want to do, and if so, do it!” affirmed René.  “I always considered that the coolest place to open a business was in the Gaspésie region. There’s so much to do! You don’t even have to reinvent the wheel.” He did specify however that being in business was not for everyone. It’s demanding and you have to really devote yourself. According to him, what is required is “an unconditional love of what you’re doing.”

 

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About the Owners

René Leblanc, Adam Leblanc and Matthew O’Reilly are the owners of Ford New Richmond since 2010. In 2016, André Leblanc joined the team. He enhanced used car sales and then became a shareholder. The four partners subsequently acquired Ford New Richmond in 2018.

When opening their microbrewery La belle aventure in August 2022, three young Gaspesians wanted to give Bonaventure a festive and meeting location, combining a bistro-bar, a restaurant and an events location. A meeting with Sébastien Cayouette, co-owner, about this microbrewery which obtained support from the SADC Baie-des-Chaleurs.

 

A Thumbnail Sketch of the Business

Established by three young Gaspesians, Marc-Olivier Forest-Poirier, Sébastien Cayouette and Marie-Pier Dion, the Microbrasserie La belle aventure is a festive location where people like to gather. It offers five classic beers – blond beer (a lager), red beer, white beer, IPA and stout. Season beers boasting local tastes are added from time to time. Its bistro-bar showcases regional products (smoked salmon, salsa, cold cuts . . .) Gaspesian liquor, strawberry and rhubarb wines from the Ferme Bourdages Tradition..

In What Way is your Business Unique?

According to Sébastien, the microbrewery stands out first of all by the various aspects it features, by combining the production and marketing of its beers, the events aspect and the bistro-bar. “There is a different ambiance at the bistro, something that was not in Bonaventure and the area. This is a festive gathering place!” According to him, the beers brewed by La belle aventure are distinguished by their quality, the local ingredients which are advantageously used, and their accessibility. “Blond and white beers are sure to please everyone who wants to taste microbrewery beer for the first time.”

Why Have You Chosen to be an Entrepreneur? 

“I always knew that I would be an entrepreneur” said Sébastien, who studied administration. “I didn’t know in what field, but I always had this project in mind.” Fond of beer, he and his partners wanted to have a project dealing with this common passion. “During our trips, we always visited microbreweries. We liked the atmosphere they would give to a village. So we said to each other: why not bring this home to Bonaventure? We wanted to create everything by ourselves, from A to Z, something that would be true to us and which would suffuse life into Bonaventure.”

How did Support From the SADC Help You?

La belle aventure obtained a loan from the SADC investment fund. Sébastien underlined the fact that he had obtained advantageous loans in his Stratégie jeunesse (Youth Strategy) program. “They got on board the project right away! They were the first to accept it and were always very flexible in their loans and conditions. They are very proactive. It’s easy to work with them.”

Tell Us About a Noteworthy Achievement of Which You Are Especially Proud as an Entrepreneur (for Example, in Sustainable Development)

This winter, La belle aventure will market its beers in cans. They will be sold on site at the bistro and in grocery stores, deps and in specialized businesses in the Baie-des-Chaleurs region. “In one year, we will be targeting the Gaspésie region,” proudly mentioned Sébastien. On the other hand, to enhance its residual materials, the Microbrasserie gives its beer production residue to the Ferme Le Caprivore, which uses it to nourish its animals. La belle aventure also experiments with local products. “It’s important for us to enhance local products,” specified Sébastien. Last summer, the microbrewery’s seasonal beer was developed with haskap berries from the Verger Cambrook in Bonaventure. Tests will also be conducted shortly with coffee roasted in the Gaspésie region.

What Advice Would You Give to Anyone Who is Considering Starting Up a Business in the Baie-des-Chaleurs Region?

“Persevere” said Sébastien. “Not listen to people who try to discourage you. If you believe in your idea, you’ve got to do it!” He said that he and his partners dealt with various obstacles during the development of their project, from 2019 to 2022, right in the middle of the pandemic. “In three years, we often told each other that the project would not go through.” According to him, when there are challenges, you mustn’t stop but rather “find innovative ways to deal with them.”

 

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About the location

Marc-Olivier Forest-Poirier, Sébastien Cayouette and Marie-Pier Dion purchased the former restaurant Rendez-vous in the heart of Bonaventure in 2020, to install their bistro-bar. Their beer production is located in a brand new building in the back.

Mélissa Vaillancourt took charge of Caprices de cuisine in July 2021. Since then, she is working on diversifying services and products, from the design to the finished product, and betting on customer service. A meeting with Mélissa about her business, which obtained support from the SADC Baie-des-Chaleurs.

 

A Thumbnail Sketch of the Business

Caprices de cuisine is a family business that features a large variety of kitchen products (dishware, glassware, cutlery, table linen . . .), bar and cocktail accessories, articles and food preparation and cooking devices, food products and even more. Intending to broaden her product offering even more, she has a service counter for Armoires Distinction. Caprices de cuisine attracts clients from all over the Gaspé region, from Rimouski and even New Brunswick.

In What Way is your Business Unique?

“We only deal with kitchen products and we have a broad price range, including top-end products and lower budgeted ones to meet all needs” said Mélissa. “We also managed to have local artisans make accessories specifically for kitchens.” Among others, the business features FishNship aprons – the Catherine Côté and Lise Hudon workshops, cloth dish covers, lunch bags and napkins from La Découpe and wooden products (spoons, bread knives) from local artisans. It also features local food products such as chocolate from Chaleur B Chocolat and goodies from Chocolaterie & Confiserie Linda.

Why Have You Chosen to be an Entrepreneur? 

“I have been in business since I was young, as I was a co-owner of several restaurants” explained Mélissa. “In this case, I wanted to meet a challenge alone, to build something different than a restaurant and I was given this opportunity.” For her, retail sales was a wonderful challenge to meet.

How did Support From the SADC Help You?

Mélissa was part of the SADC Youth Strategy Program for the purchase of her business. With this Program, she obtained a loan at a competitive interest rate. She also received a subsidy and a loan from the Avignon RCM. This combined financial assistance gave her a great advantage: “I did not have to take out a personal loan.” She added: “I also had salary support during the first year [thanks to the Self-Employed Support Program offered by the RCM and Emploi-Québec].”

Tell Us About a Noteworthy Achievement of Which You Are Especially Proud as an Entrepreneur.

“Since two weeks now we have an on-line store”, Mélissa proudly mentioned. My right-hand man Steven Couture [her eldest son] and myself got it up and running. We’re still working on it. Up to now, there are 400 products.” The businesswoman is also very proud of the involvement of her three children in the store and for the customer service work performed with the Gaspesian firm of Audace.

What Advice Would You Give to Anyone Who is Considering Starting Up a Business in the Baie-des-Chaleurs Region?

“Go right ahead!” said Mélissa unhesitatingly. “We are often stopped. People tell us to go easy, to let things happen by themselves, but you have to forge ahead! Determination changes everything in what we’re trying to build. You have to believe in yourself and not get worried about what people say. Confidence is your best tool.”

 

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About Mélissa Vaillancourt

Having worked some 20 years in management positions for Subway, Mélissa was in charge of the implementation of the operational setup of each restaurant and for human resources management. Since July 2021, she is brilliantly meeting the challenge of operating a retail store: Caprices de cuisine.

ÈST éco-cabines opened for business in July 2021 in Miguasha to feature quite a new glamping experience in the region. Six months later, a thermal spa was added to its offering. A meeting with Louise Landry, co-owner, about this business which obtained support from the SADC of the Baie-des-Chaleurs.

 

A Thumbnail Sketch of the Business

Founded by Louise Landry and Maxime Leclerc, ÈST éco-cabines is a glamping business. Six cabins (thuya) are built in a dense and mature cedar forest, while two cabins (Ublo) are perched on a cliff with a view on the Baie des Chaleurs. The business also features a thermal spa which is available with or without lodging. It features a dry sauna, a Hamman, two hot and cold tubs and two relaxation zones (indoors and outdoors). A self-service welcoming area is in the main building, along with three spacious private bathrooms having large showers and heated floors.

In What Way is your Business Unique?

“By being near to nature with exceptional comfort” mentioned Louise. Glamping in cabins is also distinctive in itself. “This is a new offering which is not found elsewhere in the region.” The business also wanted to feature a self-service welcome desk without compromising on client service. “Everything is thought out to allow the client to be independent on-site and not depend on a reception desk.” For example, the business sends the client the cabin number and the access code by text message and a firewood distributing machine is available. “This is a more streamlined experience.”

Why Have You Chosen to be an Entrepreneur? 

“This career came to me and I seized the opportunity!” said Louise. With a Master’s degree in sociology, she recently became a process optimization consultant. “This is when I began to master corporate management.” Maxime, who is the co-owner of GROOM, a business marketing personal care products for men, was also working as a soundman. In August 2020, when the couple was vacationing in the region, they visited land for sale in Miguasha. “This was an opportunity we had. It wasn’t planned at all. We had a tremendous crush!” Stimulated by the idea of operating a glamping outfit in that location, the couple submitted its business plan to financers four months later and everything became reality in the summer of 2021.

How did Support From the SADC Help You?

“We had financial support with the Youth Strategy Fund and a regular loan,” mentioned Louise. “This was a $1.5 million project. We needed seed capital to start up.” She also underlined the support given by an SADC business counsellor, Vanessa Ratté. “We received a lot of advice and discussed matters with her to check on weaknesses in the business plan. She really gave us support during the start up.”

Tell Us About a Recent Noteworthy Achievement of Which You Are Especially Proud as an Entrepreneur.

Louise mentioned the environmentally friendly aspect of the business. “When we had the eco-cabins built, it was clear to us that we would cut as few trees as possible in our cedar grove. We selected each tree. We made an ecological choice.” In addition, there is no septic tank on-site. “We installed odourless, electrical compost toilets.” Lastly, wood, which is a long-lasting material, was used to build the units.

What Advice Would You Give to Anyone Who is Considering Starting Up a Business in the Baie-des-Chaleurs Region?

“Do it, have confidence in yourself!” burst out Louise. According to her, the region has a great entrepreneurial potential which is untapped. “The world remains to be built, there’s room for that.” She reminded persons who are afraid to be go-getters that they are not alone. “We had numerous partners who supported us, such as the SADC, the Avignon MRC, Investissement Québec and Economic Development Canada. There are all kinds of resources. You are less likely to delve into the great unknown when partners are there to support and help you.”

 

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About Maxime Leclerc and Louise Landry

Originally respectively from Sainte-Foy and Carleton-sur-Mer, Maxime Leclerc and Louise Landry escaped life in Montreal to found ÈST éco-cabines. Maxime works there as director of operations, while Louise is the administration and financial director. They are also the happy parents of a boy born in the Gaspésie region in 2021.

Garage M.J. Brière in Caplan, inaugurated its new building last June. Following the completion of this major project, Alexandre Bujold, a sales advisor and future owner of the business, is now concentrating on succession planning with his mother, Manon Brière. A meeting with Alexandre about the business, which obtained support from the SADC Baie-des-Chaleurs.

 

A Thumbnail Sketch of the Business

M.J. Brière Inc. features a wide range of new and used Kubota products. In addition to selling all kinds of equipment (tractors, lawn mowers, utility vehicles, excavators, loaders and agricultural machinery), maintenance kits, parts and accessories, the business also features maintenance and repair services for Kubota products.

In What Way is your Business Unique?

“Customer service and after sales service” answered spontaneously Alexandre. “We are a family business in operation since nearly 50 years!” Staff at M.J. Brière takes the time to help clients select the right equipment and gives them advice on daily issues. “There are no pressure sales. We welcome clients as family members. In the Gaspésie region, we do our grocery shopping with our clients. Mutual respect has developed.”

Why Have You Chosen to be an Entrepreneur? 

As a son of business persons, Alexandre wanted to be an entrepreneur for the freedom it entails. “When I was younger I always worked for my family.” When he was 18 he wanted to have different work experiences outside of the region. “I wanted to see what the world had to offer to me” he explained. “I always did a little more than the boss asked. I took my work to heart. That was in my DNA, and that’s how I grew up.” In 2013, I decided to come back to the Gaspésie region. “I knew that was where I was going to settle down and live my life.” It was also obvious for him that he would continue to work with the public. “I love it! I like the challenges it involves.”

How did Support From the SADC Help You?

“Support from A to Z! Help, listening and advice” mentioned Alexandre referring to the new building project that was inaugurated in June 2022.  “When we undertook research before starting the building project, doors were closing everywhere [due to the pandemic].” He underlined the fact that the SADC assisted M.J. Brière with its business plan and financing, namely by advising it about who to call on. “Doing our new branding also helped us a lot.”

Tell us about a recent noteworthy achievement of which you are especially proud as an entrepreneur.

The new building is obviously a major achievement over the last months. With its construction, M.J. Brière wanted to jump start other sectors of the business. “There is a new website and a new phone answering system” said Alexandre. “We redid the garage hierarchy from A to Z!” The disposition of the facilities was also redone. “When walking into the garage, you can see that there is more fluidity, even for service.”

What advice would you give to anyone who is considering starting up a business in the Baie-des-Chaleurs region?

“Take care of one’s clients” says Alexandre. He underlined the fact that we must always keep in mind proximity with clients in small localities. “In the Gaspésie region, a satisfied client will tell five persons about it, but an unsatisfied client will tell the whole village!”  According to him, you have to always be attentive to clients. “They are the ones who make the business prosper. At times this may be contrary to your ideas, but you can always find that little something that will make your business thrive.”

 

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About Alexandre Bujold

Working for the family business since 2013, Alexandre Bujold is now undertaking a business succession planning process. Founded by his grandfather Magella Brière in 1974, the business is now owned by his mother Manon Brière.

 

Joseph St-Denis Boulanger and his spouse, Laurie-Anne Cloutier, founded the Distillerie des Marigots in Caplan in 2019. Since it was introduced at the end of 2020, their gin, called Récif, has received impressive honours internationally. A meeting with Joseph regarding entrepreneurship and the Distillerie, for which the SADC de Baie des Chaleurs gave support.

 

A Thumbnail Sketch of the Business

The Distillerie des Marigots features spirits which are outstanding with their refined aspect and their rich taste which is typical of Gaspesian regional products. In addition to its flagship product, the Récif gin, the Distillerie has added small experimental batches, such as the Série exploratoire (exploratory series).

In What Way is your Business Unique?

“We stand out by featuring tastes found in the Gaspésie region, with no compromises,” affirmed Joseph. The richness of aromas is very important, as well as the quality of ingredients and equipment used. There is no compromise as far as quality is concerned.” The Distillerie also offers exclusive products to visitors, such as certain ones which are only sold on site. The general public can also be a witness to these activities. “There is proximity to the reality of distillation.”

Why Have You Chosen to be an Entrepreneur?  

According to Joseph, “I’ve been an entrepreneur since a long time ago. At the age of 12 I used to sell hiking poles in the Signature Gaspésie network!” When he was in Secondary 5, he already wanted to be an entrepreneur and he studied engineering just to become an entrepreneur.” I like to create something that will last and to invest my time and energy in something of my own.”

How did Support From the SADC Help You?

The Distillerie obtained a loan from the SADC investment fund. To start up the business, Joseph and Laurie-Anne both took out loans from the Stratégie jeunesse (Youth Strategy) fund. Joseph also underlined the fact that he was given much good advice from the SADC team members. “They gave me their impressions and recommendations to improve the business plan.”

Tell us about a recent noteworthy achievement of which you are especially proud as an entrepreneur (ex.: in the field of sustainable development). 

“We re-use stale-dated beer from the Naufrageur to upgrade it into whiskey. We also implemented a bottle recovery system. We have now collected 500!”  Joseph constantly tries to seek opportunities to upgrade residual materials. He says that he has recently joined Synergie Gaspésie, a circular economy project in which there may be other occasions to create links with other local businesses.

What advice would you give to anyone who is considering starting up a business in the Baie-des-Chaleurs region?

“Do not hesitate to contact all economic and development actors!” According to him, these people “go that extra mile and work to make things happen. These people are enthusiastic and they are there to find a way to make things happen for you.” He also underlined the importance of including the community in a project. “The community is one of the strengths in the Baie-de-Chaleurs region. It is behind businesses and welcomes them with open arms.” According to Joseph, part of the pleasure is having it involved in the business and vice versa.

 

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About Joseph and Laurie-Anne

Born in Caplan, Joseph St-Denis Boulanger is the President and Master Distiller in the business. Originally from Montreal, Laurie-Ann Cloutier holds the position of Vice-President.

Kim Lavigne acquired Agenda Fleuriste, in Maria, in July 2019. Since then, she enlivens her clients’ daily grind with her flowers, plants, helium balloons and various gifts. A discussion with this entrepreneur.

 

In what way is your business unique?

“When I purchased the business, my goal was to have a large variety of plants so people could find [types] they did not already have” mentioned Kim. In April, she started up a Facebook group called “Les VIP des plantes d’Agenda Fleuriste,” which features inside information about plants received or expected. This businesswoman strives to meet the needs of her clientele and to respect it, while having a friendly atmosphere in her boutique also counts a lot for her.

How did support from the SADC help you?

“It allowed me to finalize my project.” Kim specified that she had the support of the MRC, the SADC, Desjardins Micro-Credit and of the former owner to purchase her business. The SADC then offered her financing for a transactional website in addition to web marketing training. Kim appreciated the fact that the SADC suggested that she attend the Circular Economy Rendezvous last April. “It was really interesting. It did me a lot of good!”

Tell us about a recent noteworthy achievement of which you are especially proud as an entrepreneur (ex.: in the field of sustainable development). 

Right from the beginning, “getting an electric delivery vehicle!” Kim gradually made other changes. “Before that, flowers were wrapped in plastic. Now it’s 95% Kraft paper.” In addition, when she can, she brings back flowering cactus plants which grow in Québec. When this was being written, Kim was considering collaborating with a company in the Gaspésie region to sell biological and local flowers when in season.

What advice would you give to anyone who is considering starting up a business in the Baie-des-Chaleurs region?

“Having confidence, forging ahead, one step at a time, even if it may seem to be a large mountain! I had good support.” According to Kim, there are some great resources in the region. Good persons accompanied me. Going to see another entrepreneur or the MRC is always a good idea.”

Jacki Leblanc founded the wood processing company Bois JL in May 2018 at Carleton-sur-Mer. Since then, a growing clientele of sawmills, building contractors and individuals use his quality wood products. A conversation with Jacki about his business, which obtained support from the Baie-des-Chaleurs SADC.

 

A Thumbnail Sketch of the Company

Bois JL uses local wood (e.g. cedar, spruce, aspen and tamarack) to make quality products such as doors, strips, mouldings and solid wood beams. The company also features exotic wood for furniture makers. Employing from five to six workers annually, it also distributes Groupe Lebel products.

What Distinguishes Your Company?

Bois JL is distinguished by the quality of its products and its competitive prices. “There is no middleman. I saw and sell the wood. This is why our prices are so much lower” he explained. “We use a lot of aspen, which is not really well known. We saw it differently. Once dried, we straighten it up and it is really nice wood, useful for panelling.”

Why Did You Decide to be in Business?  

”I’ve been dreaming of that since I was 20 years old!” said Jacki in an outburst. I was 46 years old, I had to do it. My mother was also in business.” He really enjoys his new role as an entrepreneur. “Total happiness!”

What did SADC Support Mean to You?

“I got a loan when I started my business”, mentioned Jacki, and technical help to create my Facebook page. He really appreciated the support he received. “This helped me to feel secure,” he confided. “When I borrowed once again later on, I did it with the SADC.”

Tell us About Something You Recently Were Especially Proud to do as an Entrepreneur.

“I purchased a machine to alleviate some of the work being performed by the men” affirmed Jacki. “This is a precision trimmer. Before that, we would saw bundles of wood with a chainsaw. The men work less hard with the trimmer. It also makes a better quality product with very precise measurements.”

What Advice Would You Give to Someone Who Wants to Start a Business in the Baie-des-Chaleurs Region?

According to Jacki, you have to know how to get the right type of support and to knock on the right doors. In addition to the SADC, the MRC Avignon gave him precious assistance. “The MRC gave me a helping hand for the business plan. I was given good advice.”

 

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About Jacki Leblanc

Having first started his career as an electrician, Jacki Leblanc wanted to do something else. Because of his love for wood, he founded Bois JL in 2018 at Carleton-sur-Mer (Saint-Omer district).