On September 10^th and 11^th 2019, Listuguj held the first edition of its Economic Development Symposium. The event was organized by the Economic Development Department, with the objective of stimulating and fostering private entrepreneurship in the community.

A full agenda awaited the participants. Several guest speakers, all approaching different themes, addressed the participants. Three words can sum up the symposium: inspire, empower and develop.

Inspire

Community members had the opportunity to hear and get acquainted with Mrs. Jenn Harper, founder of Cheekbone Beauty Cosmetics Inc., who was the Guest of Honour of the event. She spoke about the importance of respect and self-confidence, and how her company was born. She wanted the participants to reflect on the importance of « why? » when one embarks on a business venture.

Empower

Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI) and the First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Economic Development Commission (FNQLEDC) were on site to provide the attending and the future entrepreneurs with the necessary tools in their undertakings. Whether it’s for a business start-up or for an expansion project, there was a toolkit full of tools for all types of project.

Develop

Not only did the symposium provide an opportunity to hear guest lecturers, but it also allowed the entrepreneurs to go into practical setting.  On the one hand, some speakers, including Emmanuel Bertrand-Gauvin and Myriam Vallières, of the FNQLEDC, were available on site for individual meetings to support the entrepreneurs in their projects. Incidentally, a contest similar to Dragon’s Den was also on the schedule.  Participants had the opportunity to listen to a lecture about the bases of a pitch, to work on their presentation with the help of a coach, before being finally able to present their projects. After this exercise, three prizes were given out by the organization.

To conclude, the Economic Development Department of Listuguj seized the opportunity to launch its new tourism development initiative.  The organizers are unanimous that the event was a huge success! In fact several participants hope the event will be repeated next year for a second edition. To be followed …

Further information on the Listuguj community can be found at listuguj.ca.