As part of Black History Month, I had the honor of participating in the second season of "Portraits inspirants d’entrepreneurs africains et afrodescendants," an initiative led by Félix ZOGNING, Ph.D., Adm.A., and the Université de Sherbrooke. This project highlights the journeys and achievements of entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds, helping to recognize their invaluable contributions.
The Importance of Inclusion in Entrepreneurship
At EvenemenCiel, we have always believed in the power of events to foster genuine connections, inspire, and drive lasting change. Our commitment is built on a clear vision: to create unique experiences that bring people together and amplify all voices. Being recognized as part of this initiative is a meaningful validation of the work we have done and the path we have taken.
Inclusive entrepreneurship is not just about equity; it is a true driver of innovation. When all perspectives are considered, ideas flourish, and projects gain depth. By embracing diversity, we build stronger, more resilient, and more creative businesses that are deeply rooted in their communities.
The Numbers Speak for Themselves
Current statistics show that there is still much work to be done to increase diversity in Quebec’s entrepreneurial landscape:
As of Q4 2024, privately owned businesses with majority female ownership accounted for 20.9%, up from 18.3% in 2022.
Businesses primarily owned by Indigenous peoples (First Nations, Métis, or Inuit) made up approximately 2%.
According to the 2021 Census, 23% of Canada’s population is composed of immigrants, representing 8.36 million people.
Between 2006 and 2015, Quebec welcomed nearly 500,000 immigrants, or 19.4% of total Canadian immigration.
Yet, fewer than half of startups in Canada, the U.S., and the U.K. had at least one ethnoculturally diverse individual in their leadership team or board, and only 26% actively sought to increase diversity.
Taking Action for More Representative Entrepreneurship
In response to these challenges, initiatives such as Entreprendre Ici and the Fonds Mosaïque de Filaction provide resources, funding, and support to help entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds in Quebec. These measures are crucial to breaking down barriers and fostering a more representative economy.
An Invitation to Build Together
A huge thank you to Félix Zogning, Université de Sherbrooke, and REPAF for this initiative celebrating the richness of Black entrepreneurship. Special thanks also to Mike Evariste for the outstanding video production, which beautifully illustrates our vision and mission.
Watch the feature (in French) here:
Let’s continue to promote inclusive and inspiring entrepreneurship together!
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Sources:
Statistique Québec - Entrepreneurship and Diversity
Statistics Canada - Immigration and Ethnocultural Diversity
Quebec Ministry of Immigration, Francization and Integration
Entreprendre Ici - Support for Entrepreneurs from Diverse Backgrounds
Info Entrepreneurs - Resources for Entrepreneurial Diversity
Revue Gestion - Diversity in Startups
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