Granby, February 4, 2026 – On April 1, the Centre d’aide aux entreprises Haute-Yamaska et région will launch the first edition of the Tournoi des entrepreneurs de l’avenir at Collège du Mont-Sacré-Cœur. The event will bring together 340 Secondary 5 students enrolled in the entrepreneurship and financial education course, from six schools in the Haute-Yamaska and Rouville RCMs.
The initiative aims to spark students’ interest in entrepreneurship and broaden their understanding of the opportunities available to them before they enter CEGEP. In the run-up to the event, CAEHYR business advisors visited each of the schools to run three workshops focusing on the business model canvas and the sales pitch, in an approach that fosters team spirit and business acumen.
The Tournament is the culmination of this process, with students taking on two challenges based on a simulated situation before presenting their work to a panel of judges. Six teams will be awarded a $500 bursary.
Conference by Gabriel Boisvert, founder of Lush Lave-Auto
Revealed to the general public during his appearance on the TV show Dans l’œil du dragon, where he signed a deal with businessman Georges Karam, Gabriel Boisvert quickly established himself as a leading figure in youth entrepreneurship. An entrepreneur since the age of 12, the 18-year-old Bromont native is the owner of Lush Lave-Auto, a company whose business model is based on a network of franchises specializing in home car washes.
“Being named official speaker of the Entrepreneurs of the Future Tournament is a source of immense pride for me. To be able to share my entrepreneurial journey in front of so many young people gives me chills. My goal is to show students that it’s possible to start a business at any age. If I can inspire even a few young people to believe in their potential, I’ll have accomplished something great.” – Gabriel Boisvert, owner of Lush Lave-Auto
Partners and elected officials unite to support the next generation
The entrepreneurial community responded favorably, while several schools, organizations and elected officials were quick to show their willingness to get involved in supporting the event.
“Youth entrepreneurship has always been a priority at CAEHYR. We wanted to set up a flagship project to propel young people forward. Local entrepreneurs like Nicolas Dubuc, owner of Boutiques Empire, have gone through this type of activity and are now making their mark all over Quebec. The response from the community shows that there is a real place for the entrepreneurs of the future. – Isabelle Brochu, CAEHYR General Manager
L’Envolée school will be the most represented, with 113 students eagerly anticipating the experience. To this end, a teacher from this school has acted as an advisor on the ground for the implementation of the activity.
“I’m delighted to be taking part in this first edition. The students are highly motivated, and I’m convinced that April 1st will be a memorable experience for them. Thank you to CAEHYR for offering an event that allows young people to surpass themselves in entrepreneurship.” – Amélie Guénette, high school teacher in Contemporary World, École L’Envolée
Major organizations, including Desjardins, Commerce Tourisme Granby région, Entrepreneuriat Haute-Yamaska and Cégep de Granby, have agreed to contribute to the project as GOLD partners. Granby MNA François Bonnardel and Brome-Missisquoi MNA Isabelle Charest have also confirmed their support.
About CAE Haute-Yamaska and region
Since 1985, the CAE Haute-Yamaska et région has been contributing to the economic development of businesses in the Haute-Yamaska, Brome-Missisquoi and Rouville regions through coaching, financing and mentoring.
About the Future Entrepreneurs Tournament
The Tournoi des entrepreneurs de l’avenir is a rallying event designed to stimulate the entrepreneurial spirit through hands-on workshops and friendly competition. It is aimed at Secondary 5 students in the CAEHYR territory enrolled in entrepreneurship and financial education courses.
-30-
For information and interviews
Audrey Lemieux
Communications Advisor and Project Manager
(450) 378-2294 ext. 229
