Information and communication technologies

BACKGROUND

The information and communication technologies (ICT) industry is formed of companies specializing in software, hardware, semi-conductors, telecommunications and professional services. Present in almost every aspect of our lives, ICT has profoundly changed the way we work, learn, do business, communicate, deliver public services, build social networks, obtain information and spend our free time.

Not surprisingly, this industry plays a dominant role in the Québec economy and in the province’s visibility on the world stage. It also fuels the most innovation, with almost $1 billion in R&D spending each year.

INDUSTRY CHALLENGES

In order to ensure its long-term growth and to maintain its advantageous market position, the ICT industry will have to address the following challenges:

Access to the world’s large networks;
Global competition;
Exchange rate fluctuations;
A shortage of labour.

WHERE THE FONDS FITS IN

The Fonds de solidarité FTQ leverages its expertise, capital and vast network to:

Provide financial and strategic support to companies seeking to maximize their growth;
Allow companies to capitalize on market opportunities to develop value-creating projects;
Help create and keep jobs in Québec.

INVESTMENT PRIORITIES

Growth and expansion projects
Mergers and acquisitions
New market development
Transition financing (family or management buyout)
Addition of a new business line and new markets.

FINANCING

The Fonds offers solutions tailored to your needs.

FINANCING SOLUTIONS

The Fonds tailors its offer to match the individual needs of its partner companies. We offer patient capital that takes into account the challenges businesses face and the time they need to see their projects to fruition.

Our flexible financing options include:

Equity financing (common or preferred shares)
Unsecured debt, requiring no collateral (debenture)

FINANCING CRITERIA

The Fonds gives priority to businesses that satisfy, among others, the following criteria:

Competent, dynamic and credible teams with operating experience and capable of attracting high-calibre employees;
Shareholders and officers receptive to investors, alliances and partnerships;
Sound business plans, including a well-defined marketing strategy;
Clearly differentiated products and services that address the identified needs of the target markets;
Demonstrated growth and profitability or potential for profitability in the near term;
Preservation and creation of lasting jobs.