“We in Quebec can’t afford to lose the entrepreneurs we already have”: The mission of Nathaly Riverin and Persévérance Entrepreneuriale

When we talk about entrepreneurship in Quebec, we often discuss innovation, growth, the next generation of entrepreneurs, and business succession. Yet we talk far less about an issue that is nonetheless essential: the psychological and financial survival of those who are already in business and are navigating a period of turbulence.

This is precisely the arena in which Nathaly Riverin, founder of Persévérance Entrepreneuriale, operates. Her message is clear:

"In Quebec, we can't afford to lose the entrepreneurs we already have."

A shrinking pool of entrepreneurs

Nathaly begins with a troubling observation: the numbers show a significant decline in entrepreneurship. By 2025–2026, there could be fewer than 100,000 Quebec entrepreneurs living here, running a business here, and employing at least one person.

At the same time, several factors are at play:

• less profitable companies;
• higher debt;
• a series of crises.

This combination places enormous stress on entrepreneurs and creates a blind spot: struggling businesses.

A safety net for people and businesses

The Entrepreneurial Perseverance program supports entrepreneurs for one year, based on a very clear principle: people are more important than the business. 

Specifically, the program combines coaching, co-development, training, and access to approximately 25 experts to help clarify specific challenges.

Following this program, the majority of participants regain a sense of well-being and, above all, the ability to make clear-headed decisions.

Persévérance Entrepreneuriale offers what is most needed: a neutral, confidential, and empathetic space.

During a focus group with the participants, the words that emerged to describe the program speak volumes: “safe space,” “a place to be authentic,” “stop feeling guilty,” “let off steam,” “empathy,” “the right to say ‘I don’t have the answer.’”

As part of the Parapluie campaign, Persévérance Entrepreneuriale is contributing with a very practical offering: the Clarifier program. It is a 2-hour financial assessment designed to:

• present the correct figures clearly;
• identify some possible solutions;
• reduce financial stress, which takes a heavy toll on mental health.

Don't trivialize suffering; don't normalize exhaustion

"Entrepreneurial Perseverance" and "Parapluie" are based on the same insight:

“If we want entrepreneurs to continue creating wealth in two, five, or ten years, we need to take care of those who are on the front lines today.”