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Quebec International launches the third edition of Devtech 50

Quebec International announced today the launch of the third edition of Devtech 50, Quebec’s premier technology entrepreneurship competition. Inaugurated in 2009, this competition takes its inspiration from major entrepreneurial contests such as Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s MIT100K and the University of Waterloo’s LaunchPad 50K. The aim is to foster entrepreneurship in Quebec’s technology sector. Start-up firms wishing to take part are encouraged to submit an application without delay.

In keeping with the event’s successful formula, 10 finalist teams will receive high-level training prior to the final round. The eventual winners will receive cash prizes and services worth tens of thousands of dollars, as well as a people’s choice award.

“Support for start-up tech firms requires the concerted effort of key economic development actors, which is why Quebec International has made it a top priority. Thanks to Devtech 50, we are facilitating the emergence and success of talented and dynamic high-tech entrepreneurs across the Quebec City region. They play a crucial role in regional economic prosperity, and we’re proud to be contributing to the development of a solid entrepreneurial ecosystem. I wish the participants the best of luck and all the success they deserve,” said Carl Viel, President and CEO of Quebec International.

The third edition of Devtech 50 is made possible thanks to the support of various partners, including the Quebec City Local Development Centre (CLD de Québec), Deloitte and Teralys Capital.

Since the inaugural edition of Devtech 50 in 2009, a total of 78 high-tech firms have submitted applications aimed at becoming finalists and benefiting from the high-level training provided. LeddarTech, Caristix, ArcBees, GenePOC and Pavemetrics were among the finalists selected in the first two editions of the contest. Today, they rank among the most promising start-ups in the region.

Taking part in a contest like Devtech 50 brings various tangible benefits. According to Valérie Robitaille, President of XpertSea Solutions Inc., which won the inaugural edition of Devtech 50, the experience was highly worthwhile. “Our first-place finish included a significant cash prize for a start-up firm. We also gained access to professional marketing and export expertise. The visibility and recognition that we received thanks to Devtech 50 enabled us to obtain the financing we needed to develop XpertSea,” said Ms. Robitaille.

Participants

Devtech 50 is geared towards start-up firms making use of high technology during the marketing or pre-marketing phases of their products and/or services. Their annual revenues must be less than $250,000.

Registration

To register for Devtech 50, simply fill out the form available at www.devtech50.com (in french) .

Important dates

  • Sept. 30: registration deadline
  • Oct. 15: announcement of the 10 finalists
  • Oct. 22-23/Nov. 5: training/support for the finalists
  • Nov. 21: final round