Djeneba Dosso

LJI Reporter

On May 23, ID Gatineau announced the launch of a program designed to accelerate the growth

of 20 Gatineau businesses and restaurants. The Master Class is a co-development initiative which

will give entrepreneurs the opportunity to increase their visibility, discuss challenges and explore

solutions.

What will set this program apart will be its mentorship element as each entrepreneur will meet

with influential figures of their own merit in the world of business. Through a series of virtual

meetings, two cohorts of ten entrepreneurs will have the chance to exchange ideas with chef

Louis-François Marcotte, entrepreneur Marie-Josée Richer, football player David Côté and CEO

Nicolas Duvernois amongst many others. Depending on their business, Master Class participants

can expect to address key themes ranging from digital marketing and customer experience to

innovation and business management. In addition, participants will receive an hour of individual

coaching with the leader of their choice.

The value of the Master Class program is estimated at over $10,000 per person. Sylvie Charette,

general manager of ID Gatineau believes this type of program will take businesses and

restaurants in the city to “the next level.”

“This unique program will enable entrepreneurs to acquire new knowledge, implement

innovative strategies and develop their network of contacts,” she said via press release.

Ten of the 20 participating companies will be selected by ID Gatineau; however, the remaining

ten are asked to send an application, which will be reviewed by a selection committee. The

application form can be found on ID Gatineau’s website and consists of five questions. Those

selected will pay a $295 registration fee and commit to participating in all activities. The

deadline for businesses to send in their applications is July 1.