Enterprise Renfrew County, in partnership with RCCFDC, proudly presented the Prix de l’Entrepreneur Francophone on March 4. This annual award recognizes a francophone entrepreneur who contributes positively to the community, promotes the French language and culture, and enhances the visibility of francophone businesses in Renfrew County.

This year’s award, a one-of-a-kind serving board made from live-edge walnut and featuring a curly maple fleur-de-lys inlay, was hand-crafted by Marc Séguin of Rose & Baobab. It was presented to Lucas Fleurant and Bernadette Demong of Ottawa Valley Taekwon-Do, chosen unanimously for their commitment to fostering a bilingual and inclusive environment. Their leadership and dedication to the community make them truly deserving recipients.

Held at the Centre culturel francophone de Pembroke, the event provided a wonderful opportunity for entrepreneurs and business leaders to connect, exchange ideas, and celebrate the strength of the francophone business community. Guest speaker Erin Norris from the Ottawa Valley Tourism Association presented Collaborate to Elevate, offering insights on leveraging collective resources for marketing. Lena Ravelojaona from the Fédération des gens d’affaires francophones de l’Ontario (FGA) introduced services available to support francophone entrepreneurs. 

This event was supported by the Fédération des gens d’affaires francophones de l’Ontario in partnership with Enterprise Renfrew County, RCCFDC, the Centre culturel francophone de Pembroke, the City of Pembroke, the Town of Petawawa, the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), and the Province of Ontario.

Congratulations to Lucas Fleurant and Bernadette Demong! RCCFDC remains committed to supporting francophone entrepreneurs and fostering a thriving business community in Renfrew County.