Val-d’Or Businesses Recognized as Gala de l’Entreprise 2026 Finalists
Val-d’Or, Quebec – Thirty-three companies have been named finalists for the prestigious Gala de l’Entreprise 2026, a celebration of business excellence in the region. The announcement took place on March 13, 2026, at a 5 à 7 event held at the Salle multifonctionnelle du Pavillon des Premiers-Peuples at the Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT) in Val-d’Or. The event highlighted the dynamism and diversity of the local business community, recognizing both established enterprises and emerging projects.
The Gala de l’Entreprise, now in its 46th year, aims to honor the achievements and contributions of businesses within the Val-d’Or region. This year’s theme, “Forts de nos contrastes” (Strong in our contrasts), underscores the resilience and adaptability of businesses navigating a complex economic landscape. The selection of finalists followed a rigorous evaluation process conducted by an independent jury, tasked with reviewing 96 applications. The Chamber of Commerce of Val-d’Or (CCVD) oversees the Gala, but the jury operates independently to ensure impartiality.
Independent Jury Highlights Quality and Diversity of Applicants
Renaud Alexandre, president of the jury committee, emphasized the high caliber of the applications received. “Presiding over the jury this year was a real privilege. Behind each of the 96 applications analyzed lies hard work, bold decisions, and a remarkable commitment,” Alexandre stated. According to reporting by Ricardo Jr Emmanuel in Le Citoyen, Alexandre continued, “The quality and diversity of the projects illustrate the vitality of our environment and give full meaning to the theme ‘Forts de nos contrastes.’ Being a finalist is already a significant recognition to be proud of.”
The jury’s role is crucial in identifying companies that demonstrate innovation, economic impact, and community engagement. The process involves a detailed assessment of each application against pre-defined criteria, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process. The CCVD plays a supporting role, managing the logistical aspects of the Gala and promoting the event to the wider community.
Recognition Through Art: “Élévation”
Each finalist received a unique artwork titled “Élévation” created by local artist Valérie Lemay. The piece was specifically chosen to reflect the Gala’s theme of embracing contrasts and striving for growth. “Élévation” serves as a tangible symbol of the finalists’ accomplishments and their commitment to pushing boundaries within their respective industries. The integration of art into the recognition process adds a cultural dimension to the Gala, celebrating both business acumen and artistic talent.
Erik Frenette, president of the 46th edition of the Gala de l’Entreprise, highlighted the inherent contrasts within the business world. He noted the coexistence of well-established companies and emerging ventures, diverse career paths, and sometimes opposing visions, all united by a shared desire for progress. This acknowledgement of contrasting forces underscores the Gala’s commitment to recognizing the multifaceted nature of business success.
The Role of the CCVD and Gala Leadership
The Chamber of Commerce of Val-d’Or (CCVD) is a key organization supporting the local business community. As reported by Le Citoyen, Sébastien Richard serves as the president of the CCVD. The CCVD advocates for the interests of its members, provides networking opportunities, and promotes economic development within the Val-d’Or region. The Gala de l’Entreprise is one of the CCVD’s flagship events, showcasing the achievements of local businesses and fostering a sense of community pride.
The leadership team for the 2026 Gala includes Erik Frenette as president, Renaud Alexandre as president of the jury committee, and Sébastien Richard as president of the CCVD. Their combined expertise and dedication are instrumental in ensuring the success of the event and its continued relevance to the Val-d’Or business community. Ricardo Jr Emmanuel, a journalist and promoter of Francophonie, documented the event for Le Citoyen.
Looking Ahead: The Gala Awards Ceremony
While the finalists have been announced, the anticipation now builds towards the Gala awards ceremony, where the winners in each category will be revealed. The event promises to be a celebration of entrepreneurial spirit and a showcase of the region’s economic vitality. The Gala de l’Entreprise serves as a platform for recognizing outstanding achievements, fostering collaboration, and inspiring future generations of business leaders in Val-d’Or.
Further details regarding the awards ceremony, including the date, location, and categories, are expected to be released by the CCVD in the coming weeks. Businesses and community members are encouraged to stay informed through the CCVD’s official channels and local media outlets. The Gala de l’Entreprise remains a cornerstone event for the Val-d’Or business community, and its continued success is vital to the region’s economic prosperity.
The next update from the Gala de l’Entreprise is anticipated to be the announcement of the award ceremony details. Stay tuned to the Chamber of Commerce of Val-d’Or’s website for further information. We encourage you to share your thoughts on the importance of recognizing local business achievements in the comments below.