Saint-Jean-Port-Joli: The "Silicon Valley" of Quebec artisans

When we talk about business accelerators, we immediately think of Silicon Valley. We imagine tech startups in Palo Alto, mobile apps, computer code, and investors in ties (or hoodies) looking for the next global unicorn.

But in Quebec, innovation isn't just found in lines of code. It's found in wood, textiles, metal, and ceramics.

What if the Californian methodology—this ability to propel a company very far, very quickly—could be applied to the crafts? That's precisely the challenge we took on with Le Socle.

The "California Model"... with a soul

The principle behind a Californian accelerator is simple: take a promising idea, structure it, give it access to the best mentors, and compress three years of growth into a few months.

Why should this powerful model be reserved for engineers?

At Le Socle, we are pioneers. We were the first to take this rigorous business model and adapt it to the tangible realities of artists and craftspeople. We don't aim to transform your studio into a soulless factory. We use the tools of growth (strategy, finance, marketing) to give your art the commercial viability it deserves.

Why Saint-Jean-Port-Joli?

Silicon Valley was born because it concentrated talent in one place. Saint-Jean-Port-Joli is the same thing, but with a creative twist.

Our village isn't just picturesque: it's a historic ecosystem, recognized as the capital of sculpture and fine crafts. Here, creativity is in the air we breathe. It's the ideal fertile ground for growing strong cultural businesses.

But make no mistake: while our headquarters are rooted in the Lower St. Lawrence region, our vision knows no bounds.

A local headquarters for a provincial impact

Today, technology allows us to overcome distances. That's why Le Socle isn't "the St-Jean accelerator," it's the accelerator for Quebec artisans.

Whether your workshop is nestled in a Montreal loft, on the waterfront in the Gaspé Peninsula, or in the heart of the Saguenay region, our program is designed for you. We bring the expertise and structure of our "Silicon Valley of the St. Lawrence River" directly to your business, regardless of your postal code.

Join the movement

Artisan entrepreneurs shouldn't have to choose between passion and profitability. By adapting best-in-class business strategies to the cultural world, we prove every day that art is a powerful economic driver.

You have the talent. We have the method. Welcome to the Silicon Valley of artisans. Welcome to Le Socle.