DÉPS Supports the Business Succession of Écluse No10 in Saint-Ours

Écluse No10 is entering a new chapter in its history with the arrival of two new owners, Caroline Martineau and Vanessa Bellerose.

Développement économique Pierre-De Saurel (DÉPS) is proud to have supported this transaction, which ensures the continuity of a well-established business that is highly valued by the local community.

Located across from the Saint-Ours lock, Écluse No10 has become a popular gathering place for residents, visitors and boaters alike. Known for its specialty coffee, on-site micro-roasting, gourmet offerings and warm hospitality, the business plays an important role in the region’s economic and tourism vitality.

To support this business succession project, DÉPS provided a $60,000 loan through its Recovery Fund. The financing package also included the participation of the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC).

This transaction ensures the long-term sustainability of a local business that contributes to the region’s economic and tourism development, while providing two entrepreneurs with the opportunity to build on its success and continue its growth.

The project was carried out with the support of Mélanie Dulong, Business Advisor at DÉPS, who guided the new owners throughout the acquisition process.

This business succession story is particularly meaningful, as the company had previously benefited from support from the former Pierre-De Saurel CLD during its start-up phase. In 2016, a loan from the Local Investment Fund (FLI), a Young Entrepreneurs grant and financing through Desjardins’ Créavenir program helped bring the original project to life.

Nearly ten years later, DÉPS is pleased to once again play a role in the company’s journey by supporting its transfer to a new generation of entrepreneurs.

DÉPS congratulates Caroline Martineau and Vanessa Bellerose on this acquisition and wishes them every success in this exciting new venture.