A flagship institution founded in 1987, the Jeune Chambre de commerce de Québec (JCCQ) has become a pillar of economic development in the Québec City area. Since its inception, 38 years ago, the JCCQ has worked relentlessly to support and elevate young entrepreneurs and professionals, creating an environment that forges strong connections and drives the success of the next generation of business people. Originally aimed at professionals aged 18 to 40, it now welcomes members of all ages who share its vision of building the Quebec of tomorrow, making it an intergenerational network rich in expertise and mentorship. Today, with over 800 active members, the JCCQ hosts well over a hundred activities annually – from weekly networking meet-ups and professional development workshops to conferences and peer mentorship programs – providing countless opportunities for young business people to connect, learn, and collaborate. Notably, the JCCQ runs high-profile initiatives such as the Young Business Personality award and the Ascension startup pitch competition, which shine a spotlight on emerging entrepreneurial talent and reward outstanding local startups. These distinctions boost the visibility of rising entrepreneurs and underscore their contribution to the region’s economic dynamism.
Widely recognized by public and private stakeholders, the JCCQ is considered an essential partner in Québec’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. At its core, the JCCQ’s mission is to offer a welcoming, forward-thinking network that creates opportunities for the personal and professional growth of emerging business leaders. It upholds values of openness, integrity, conviviality and boldness, while emphasizing innovation and inclusion to empower a new generation of engaged business leaders. Through its influence and programs, the JCCQ is helping shape a robust and diverse cohort of young entrepreneurs ready to transform the economy of the future.
Furthermore, the JCCQ acts as the mandated organization for a major entrepreneurial funding program targeting the region’s emerging entrepreneurs – a role that reinforces its position as a pivotal mentor and champion for new businesses. In this capacity, the JCCQ provides personalized coaching to startup founders, offering mentorship, strategic advice and connections to expert networks to maximize their chances of success. This program, implemented locally by the JCCQ, aligns with key objectives such as delivering concrete support to young startups and entrepreneurs through sustained business coaching, highlighting promising new entrepreneurs by recognizing and showcasing their initiatives, and promoting inclusive growth by encouraging diversity and equal opportunity within the business community. Through this dual mandate – as both a dynamic business network and a delivery agent for financial support – the Jeune Chambre de commerce de Québec plays a strategic role in driving an innovative, inclusive and thriving local economy.
