Bellechasse and Les Etchemins Unite in Support of Young Entrepreneurs

10 / 06 / 2026

Supporting Icosa’s Growth Through the Digital Strategy Fund

Saint-Léon-de-Standon, June 10, 2026

On Saturday, June 6, the energy, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of young people were on full display across Bellechasse and Les Etchemins during La Grande journée des petits entrepreneurs. Communities throughout the region came together to support and celebrate the next generation of local entrepreneurs.

More than 170 small businesses came to life for a day in the municipalities of Saint-Charles-de-Bellechasse, Saint-Michel-de-Bellechasse, Saint-Malachie and Saint-Léon-de-Standon in Bellechasse, as well as Saint-Benjamin, Saint-Zacharie, Saint-Camille-de-Lellis and Sainte-Justine in Les Etchemins. Handmade products, homemade treats, artistic creations and innovative services showcased the talent, determination and entrepreneurial drive of participants aged 5 to 17.

Throughout the day, families, friends and community members turned out in large numbers, creating a welcoming and inspiring atmosphere in each marketplace.

“Seeing our community come together to support young entrepreneurs highlights the importance of providing meaningful opportunities for young people to build confidence, creativity and an entrepreneurial mindset. These experiences help cultivate a dynamic new generation of entrepreneurs and contribute to the long-term vitality of our region,” said Emmanuelle Pinel, Local Development and Communications Advisor at the Bellechasse-Etchemins Community Futures Development Corporation (CFDC), on behalf of the organizing committee.

La Grande journée des petits entrepreneurs is a province-wide initiative that gives young people the opportunity to experience entrepreneurship firsthand through a real-life business venture.

In Bellechasse-Etchemins, the host municipalities responsible for organizing the local marketplaces can count on the support of a regional committee made up of the Bellechasse-Etchemins CFDC, CJE Etchemins, Carrefour – Employability – Street Outreach – Immigration Bellechasse, Développement économique Bellechasse, the Les Etchemins RCM and Agir collectivement dans Bellechasse, all working together to support the delivery of the event.

Special thanks go to Desjardins, whose contribution made it possible to provide snacks for the young participants. The committee would also like to thank the families, volunteers, partners and visitors who took the time to encourage and support these young entrepreneurs. Their presence and enthusiasm helped make the day a memorable experience for the region’s entrepreneurial youth.

The strong participation observed this year confirms the growing importance of the event within the region and already sets the stage for next year’s edition.

About SADC Bellechasse-Etchemins

SADC Bellechasse-Etchemins supports local economic development by financing and supporting businesses and communities. It acts as a growth partner for entrepreneurs in the region and promotes an innovative and sustainable economy.

Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions supports the SADC.

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Source :
Emmanuelle Pinel, Local Development and Communications
SADC Bellechasse-Etchemins

418 642-2844 poste 106
[email protected]