Why did the Fonds decide to set up at Ax.c?
We're hands-on people. This opportunity allowed us to increase our presence with the key players in the ecosystem. Ax.c has quickly become the leading destination for innovative entrepreneurship in Québec.
We invest at every stage of a company's development. Once a company is more established, we invest directly. In the earliest stages, our support goes through partner investment funds. Because we typically work with start-ups at a distance, we didn't have much direct contact with them in the past. Ax.c changes that.
What does Ax.c bring to your role as an investor?
Ax.c offers us an environment where we can foster real relationships with start-ups and support them over the long term.
Being present in the community makes day-to-day interaction easier, especially around financing. It's a great way for us to be part of the ecosystem, contribute actively, share our expertise, and stay engaged.
A good example is the Café-risqué event, organized with Ax.c. During this event, our team on site holds office hours to speak directly with fledgling businesses. At our space at Ax.c, we also offer training sessions on venture capital financing, which are open to everyone.
What impact do you hope to generate through your presence at Ax.c?
We want to help accelerate the development of emerging companies by offering our advice and expertise while building stronger connections.
In the long term, our goal is to support them until they become mature, stable companies.
What is your vision for the future of the ecosystem?
We want to see more innovative Québec start-ups succeed and make a mark internationally. International expansion is key to driving their growth. As they grow, they will
be able to count on the right financing that will help them become flagship Québec companies.
Justin appeared on the Les Dérangeants podcast on Ax.c (french only):
In collaboration with Justin Brasier