Esplanade: Supporting Impact-Driven Entrepreneurship in Quebec
Our Mission: Social and Environmental Impact at the Heart of Business
At Esplanade, our mission is to support entrepreneurs who choose to place social or environmental impact at the core of their business model. We believe that impact entrepreneurship is a key solution in tackling the urgent environmental and societal issues of our time. By offering tailored programs and robust resources, we empower changemakers to maximize their positive footprint in Quebec and beyond.
Programs and Acceleration: From Startup to Scale-Up
Esplanade provides a comprehensive suite of programs for entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey. Our flagship initiatives include:
- Collision – Startup: Early-stage support for innovative ideas and those just starting out.
- Acceleration – Growth: Targeted growth strategies for established businesses wanting to expand their impact.
- Mouvement Circulaire – Growth: Accelerating the transition to a circular economy within Quebec’s innovation ecosystem.
- Transformation – Scaling Up: Helping impact businesses expand their reach and influence.
- Perspectives Entrepreneures – Funding: Assistance in securing critical financing for impact-driven initiatives.
Impact and Featured Success Stories
Over the past ten years, Esplanade has accompanied hundreds of entrepreneurs, helping them turn budding projects into impactful organizations. Our success stories span various sectors, such as community health, sustainable food systems, climate action, and social innovation. From startups revolutionizing waste reduction to women-led ventures securing significant investments, our entrepreneurs continually inspire with their ambition and achievements.
Resources and Tools for Partners
We provide a robust library of resources for both entrepreneurs and ecosystem partners. Our tools include:
- Impact Gaps Canvas
- Theory of Change
- User Journey Mapping
- Impact Measurement Support
These tools empower innovators to design, evaluate, and communicate the outcomes of their work.
Community and Collaboration
Esplanade is not only a hub for entrepreneurship—it’s a vibrant community of experts, coaches, and like-minded changemakers. Our platforms connect entrepreneurs through video series, events, knowledge sharing, and networking opportunities. Collaboration is at the heart of our approach, fostering a supportive environment for those dedicated to driving positive change.
Looking Ahead: The Vision for Impact
As we move forward, Esplanade remains committed to scaling the reach of impact entrepreneurship. With ongoing support from partners, governments, and the Quebec innovation ecosystem, we look to inspire more individuals and organizations to make a difference through business.
Entrepreneurs dreaming of launching or scaling an impact-driven project are invited to explore our programs and join a movement driving transformation for society and the environment.
View organization websiteList of grants and funding offered by Esplanade