Innovation, marketing and human resources are the three keys to business performance. That was the main conclusion that emerged from the inaugural edition of the Quebec City International Forum on Business Growth, which drew over 170 entrepreneurs and economic stakeholders, primarily from North America and Europe, to the Quebec City Convention Centre on July 5, 6 and 7.
The President and CEO of the Quebec City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Alain Aubut, and the President and CEO of Quebec International, Carl Viel, both described themselves as pleased with the results of the discussions held over the course of the four-day event, which will enable both organizations to better direct joint initiatives aimed at supporting business development and prosperity in the region.
“The recipe for growth is based on three essential ingredients. Also indispensable to business growth is innovation, which hinges on education, discoveries and networks. Now more than ever, businesses must question their assumptions while adapting, anticipating and reinventing themselves,” said Carl Viel. “Furthermore, marketing requires a clear vision, a well identified market, a good business plan and solid networks. As a determinant of success or failure, human resources make all the difference and reflect a company's culture,” added Mr. Aubut.
Spearheaded by the Quebec City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Quebec International and the Quebec City Convention Centre, the Forum serves as a hotbed of ideas for speeding business development and growth. Workshops on high-performance ecosystems and a series of panel discussions gave participants a chance to share insights on various aspects of competitiveness and productivity, including the opportunities and challenges associated with breaking into new markets.
Launched at a ceremony attended by Dominique Anglade, Minister of the Economy, Science, Innovation and Minister Responsible for Quebec's Digital Strategy, the 2016 edition of the Forum also sought to foster the development of strategic business networks and alliances among the participants. In conjunction with the program of activities, the organizers were pleased to note that various companies were able to access key international business networks in support of their development.
In addressing a variety of issues and challenges, the Forum also helped to pinpoint two potential ways to encourage business growth in the Quebec City region. “Local companies must create more partnerships. This is something they haven't done enough of. And we must speed the development of networks and foster co-development, particularly between SMEs, larger companies and start-ups,” concluded Mr. Viel and Mr. Aubut.
The Quebec City International Forum on Business Growth was inspired by the concept of the World Entrepreneurship Forum (WEF), held in China in October 2015. The leaders of the three founding organizations took part in that event and subsequently entered into a partnership with the WEF's organizers. This collaboration will provide access to the WEF's global network while positioning the Forum as the only event of its kind in North America.
For further information on the Quebec City International Forum on Business Growth, please visit www.cciquebec.ca/growthforum.
About the Quebec City Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIQ)
The Quebec City Chamber of Commerce and Industry brings together more than 4,500 business community members from all economic sectors of the Greater Quebec City region. As the largest business organization in Eastern Quebec, it seeks to be the preferred voice of entrepreneurs in Quebec City. Its members are offered a comprehensive array of services in four areas: networking, skills development, recognition of entrepreneurial success and economic development.
About Quebec International
Quebec International contributes to regional economic development and promotes Quebec City’s international standing. As the region’s pre-eminent economic development agency, Quebec International fosters business growth, supports key economic clusters and attracts talent and investment.
About the Quebec City Convention Centre (CCQ)
In pursuit of its mission to attract conventions, trade shows and other major events, the Quebec City Convention Centre generates major economic benefits through its various activities. Certified LEED-EB, BOMA BEST and AIPC Gold and winner of the APEX Award in 2006 (and finalist in 2014), the Centre is noted for its high standards of management, skilled personnel and excellent client service.
