From left to right: Chantal Albert Pelletier, Administrative Assistant; Brian Cormier, Commercial Credit Supervisor; Daisy Collin, Administrative Support Officer; Roland Plourde, Financial Analyst; Ginette Emond, Accounting Clerk; Andréanne Dupont, Business Development Advisor; Mayline Page, Business Development Advisor; Tania Gagnon, Executive Director.
CBDC Madawaska is committed to strengthening local expertise to develop greater wealth and better distribution of resources throughout our region. Our major decisions are guided by our dedicated volunteer board of directors, comprised of community and business leaders.
Creating Local Jobs: Over the past fiscal year, CBDC Madawaska helped to create 55 jobs in the community. The support to small businesses helped to stimulate local development and diversify the economy.
Maintaining Rural Populations: CBDC Madawaska remains focused on empowering local businesses by offering clients access to expert training and consulting services, helping to strengthen and grow existing enterprises in our region. We’ve also supported numerous start-up businesses to get their footing in the business community, which helps retain the region’s youth. By building strong partnerships with organizations, we actively promote entrepreneurship as a viable and rewarding career path for youth. This includes a collaboration with the Université de Moncton Edmundston Campus, where we guide students in developing and launching their entrepreneurial projects. We also continue to encourage both the purchase and expansion of businesses to drive long-term regional growth.
Fostering Cooperation and Solidarity: Partnerships with economic development-focused organizations and lenders is a priority for CBDC Madawaska. With the rising costs of business projects and an increased interest for business financing, we rely on partner agencies to help fulfill our client’s business aspirations. These relationships benefit our clients, allowing them to access CBDC resources alongside supplementary support from outside our organization.
Leveraging Local Resources : CBDC Madawaska fosters relationships with community organizations like the Edmundston Chamber of Commerce, focusing on our mutual goal of supporting and strengthening the business landscape of the region. We also work closely with CCNB campus of Edmundston to share resources and training with the student population and are an active partner with the Northwest Regional Service Commission, sitting on the Regional Economic Development Committee. The committee plays a role in economic development planning for the region. We are committed to true community collaboration while supporting the CBDC mission.
CBDC Madawaska improves the quality of life for those in our community through our various program offerings, which support entrepreneurs and strengthen our region’s economy. Through the Self-Employment Benefit Program (SEB) and Self-Employment Benefit Program for Persons with a Disability (SEB PWD), we are reducing barriers for those starting businesses while providing integral support that allows entrepreneurs to set firm roots in the community and thrive beyond their first year in business. The SEB PWD program provides individualized support for entrepreneurs living with a disability, reducing barriers and offering support to adapt their work environment to bring their business dreams to fruition. These exceptional businesses in our community may not have materialized had it not been for the support of this program. The services we provide make an impact that counts.
As Chair of CBDC Madawaska, I am pleased to present the results for the 2024–2025 fiscal year. This year, we unveil these results during our 32nd Annual General Meeting.
It is with pride that CBDC Madawaska supports project promoters in economic development whether for launching, acquiring, expanding, transferring, or consolidating a business. CBDC’s role goes beyond the financial sphere. In fact, we offer ongoing support through a wide range of business services
As of March 31, 2025, our commercial loan portfolio totalled $13,185,174, representing an increase of $2,589,591 from the previous year This increase is due to a significant rise in financing requests over the past year. Entrepreneurs in the region continue to demonstrate boldness by investing in economic development despite the challenges they face
Madawaska’s entrepreneurs will continue to face economic trends head-on, and CBDC Madawaska will continue to support them by promoting and administering the support programs available This year’s results clearly reflect the community’s efforts toward regional recovery, maintaining operations, and proactively developing new projects
All of this is grounded in the value and impact of effective leadership in managing an exceptional team. Our CBDC has put forth every effort to support businesses in Madawaska I want to personally thank every team member for their perseverance, energy, and dedication. I also wish to express my gratitude to the members of our Board of Directors for their involvement and trust your contribution has been invaluable!
Emilie Plourde, President
At the end of each fiscal year, we formally present to the Annual General Meeting a report of our actions and activities in line with our mission. The year 2024–2025 was marked by growth and collaboration, confirming that the Madawaska region is bold in its approach to economic development. We witnessed significant business growth over the past year, which is very encouraging. Entrepreneurs in Madawaska are seizing opportunities that contribute to job creation and retention in the region, while revitalizing and improving local business operations.
Our investments, made through our regular loan products, achieved their targets with a total of $5,250,157 disbursed through 92 business loans in the region These included 23 start-ups and 69 expansions or maintenance projects for existing businesses a record year for CBDC Madawaska investments in the region.
Additionally, support through training and consulting services, delivered via various programs, has also paid off for local entrepreneurs. A total investment of $135,911 was made in professional fees, covering nine business advisory mandates and 23 accounting training sessions These initiatives help entrepreneurs equip themselves with better management tools, ensuring the profitability and sustainability of their operations.
JI would like to thank the professional team at CBDC Madawaska as well as the members of the Board of Directors. The results presented here are the outcome of hard work, collaboration, growth, and the success of our clients The team worked tirelessly and with determination to meet the needs of our business community. Together, we contribute to the development of our region!
We are starting the 2025–2026 year with great energy! We are seeing strong demand for the SelfEmployment Benefit (SEB) program and have had numerous meetings with clients looking to launch innovative projects or acquire existing businesses Our team is in place and fully dedicated to working relentlessly to meet the needs of today’s entrepreneurs in the Madawaska region.
CBDC Madawaska is not limited to offering financing We are actively involved in advisory services, training programs, and various partnerships. Our priority is to support entrepreneurs by providing financial resources and informed guidance
Tania Gagnon, Executive Director
Total value of assistance from the CBDC and financial leverage over the past five years
In 2024–2025, contributions from CBDC Madawaska doubled compared to the previous year, reaching $5.2 million. The $3.3 million in leveraged funding reflects the regional economic momentum generated by the CBDC’s investments.
Number of applications approved for each CBDC loan product
Breakdown of amounts disbursed per loan product (in millions of dollars)
Young and new entrepreneurs accounted for 33 of the 85 projects funded over the past year, showing a strong balance between succession and growth.
The number of businesses who received financial assistance over the past five years
Following significant growth in 2023–2024, momentum continues with a marked increase in funded projects, reaching a record high of 92 businesses supported in 2024–2025.
Jobs created and maintained in the community over the last five years
CBDC Madawaska saw a remarkable increase in its impact on employability, with over 440 jobs created and
demonstrating an exceptional contribution to the region’s economic stability.
Accomodation & Food Services: $792,000 in approved loans
Construction: $783,850 in approved loans
Others: $699,857 in approved loans
Requests processed
Applications received
Applications approved
Amount approved
Amount invested
Impact on businesses
Training
Number of sessions
Number of participants
Amount granted
Number of business
counselling sessions
Number of clients New start-up
Existing businesses
Total Jobs created
Applications received
Impact on employment
Jobs maintained
Total
Applications approved
Value of assistance Number
Amount
CBDC Madawaska is available to visit educational institutions at the elementary, secondary, and post-secondary levels. The CBDC visited elementary schools within its service area to introduce who we are and to present the financing program available for youth aged 12 to 17: the Next Generation Development Fund.
A business start-up workshop was organized for a group of 17 Grade11 and 12 students enrolled in the entrepreneurship course at Cité des Jeunes A.M. Sormany. These students attended a presentation on the services offered by CBDC Madawaska, as well as practical tips for starting a business.
Additionally, a presentation on entrepreneurship as a career choice was given at the English-language school, Saint Mary’s Academy, to a group of Grade10 to 12 students. To wrap up the session, the students were challenged to pitch their business idea in teams of two or three—in just two minutes.
UMCE launched a new initiative to offer summer camps for youth aged 9 to 12. One of these camps focuses on entrepreneurship and leadership. CBDC Madawaska partnered on this initiative to provide workshops on product research/market studies, marketing and communications, and budgeting. Over 15 participants successfully prepared their business projects and presented them to a panel of judges at the end of the camp week.
CBDC Madawaska recognized a young entrepreneur during the SME Gala on October 26, 2024. The award was presented to Frédérick Plourde, owner of Plourde Déménagement et Entreposage, a company specializing in moving services throughout New Brunswick and even into Quebec.
Thanks to generous sponsors, the award recipient received a gift basket valued at $3,985, including a bursary from UNI.
The Consultant Advisory Services allow Community Business Development Corporations (CBDCs) to offer consulting services to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and non-profit organizations across Atlantic Canada. Entrepreneurs in our region can benefit from both financial and technical support from expert consultants who help them solve problems, capitalize on opportunities, and overcome challenges. Businesses may receive a nonrepayable contribution of 75% toward the cost of consulting services.
Eligible consultant advisory services:
Diagnostic Assessments: To provide an assessment of its current performance, key issues and future prospects.
Business Management Development Practices: To provide an objective assessment of its current status and identify opportunities to enhance operations/management performance.
Access to Capital: To source other options for capital.
Market Readiness/Export Potential: To determine its export readiness and identify areas that require enhancement to successfully enter the export market.
Specific Studies/Business Plan Mentoring: To assist an organization with the development and initial implementation of a study or business plan.
Mentoring and Follow-up: To provide mentoring or assistance and tips.
In 2024–2025, CBDC Madawaska completed 9 consulting projects, representing a total investment of $68,437 in support of entrepreneurs in our region.
This project aims to build employers’ confidence in hiring individuals with disabilities by providing them with resources to tap into this talent pool when searching for qualified candidates. The study explores the experiences and practices of rural SMEs in supporting employees with disabilities, as well as the tools and support needed.
A series of three digital surveys and two focus groups will be completed in fall2025. To date, 19 rural businesses have participated—either through survey responses or focus group involvement. Note: one business may take part more than once.
CBDC Madawaska partnered for the fifth consecutive year in the 2024 SME Gala, organized by the Edmundston Region Chamber of Commerce and its partners during SME Week. CBDC Madawaska played a key role in supporting the marketing and communications strategy and contributed to the event’s overall development. Entrepreneurs, business partners, family, and friends of the award recipients were all present to celebrate.
As part of a regional contest, local primary schools presented projects or initiatives with the goal of winning a fundraising prize. The winning school, École Monseigneur Matthieu Mazerolle of Rivière-Verte, stood out with its Grade2 microbusiness project, La boulangerie des petits BIZZ.
A group of 14 students from Grades2 to 8 participated by selling eyeglass cleaning cloths during the SME Gala on October 26, 2024, raising a total of $2,000.
A social media advertising campaign was launched on CBDC Madawaska’s Facebook and Instagram to promote the services and programs offered by the CBDC network. We created five ads that collectively generated over 31,000 views. Campaign themes included:
Access our free business consulting services
4 keys to business growth
Assess your business’s financial health
Self-Employment Benefit Program for Persons with a Disability (SEB-PWD) Super Promo – Limited-Time Business Financing
The ultimate goal of Atlantic CBDCs is to support economic development, create jobs, and help people realize their dreams. CBDC Day is the perfect opportunity to reflect on this mission. On this occasion, CBDC Madawaska offered the CBDC DAY LOAN—up to $20,000 at a special 5% interest rate. On May 8, 2024, for one day only, 14 entrepreneurs took advantage of this opportunity and submitted applications.
Throughout the year, entrepreneurs and business managers had the opportunity to attend two workshops and conferences hosted by Pierre Vallée, communications and marketing expert and founder of Audace. The topics covered included:
Marketing trends – strategies and tactics for businesses and organizations
Strategic planning tools for success
These sessions provided 30 entrepreneurs and managers with valuable knowledge and tools to optimize their organizations’ and businesses’ strategic planning.
Under this federal program, the Government of Canada partnered with the New Brunswick Association of CBDCs to deliver the “Grow Your Business Online” grant to small businesses across the country.
10 businesses from the Madawaska region participated and received micro-grants of up to $2,400 to help cover costs related to adopting digital technologies.
The Cybersecure NB Program aims to raise awareness of cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI) through training and informational sessions. This temporary initiative fully reimburses small and medium-sized enterprises (up to $3,000) for eligible expenses used to enhance cybersecurity and AI capabilities within their business operations, leveraging local expertise and services.
One business from the Madawaska region benefited from this program in 2024-2025.
The Seafood Technology Adoption Program (S-TAP) aims to help Seafood Companies in New Brunswick adopt new technologies or processes into their operations in order to increase productivity, product quality, and/or sustainability.
S-TAP is a temporary initiative that provides successful applicants a reimbursement of up to 75% of eligible costs upon project completion. Each eligible project has a funding limit of $99,900 and a reimbursement rate dependent on company size. Successful applicants must complete their project before January 1, 2026.
A business headquartered in Madawaska benefited from this program during the 2024-2025 fiscal year.
CBDC Madawaska believes it is essential to give back to the community. That’s why it is committed to supporting local residents by volunteering time with local community organizations. Over the coming year, it will actively participate in various fundraising activities organized in the region.
We will continue to offer consulting services to local SMEs and non-profits, helping them access financial and technical support from expert consultants who assist with problem-solving, opportunity development, and challenge resolution. The program continues to offer non-repayable contributions of up to 75% of consulting fees.
CBDC Madawaska will once again partner in the 2025 SME Gala for a sixth consecutive year, organized by the Edmundston Region Chamber of Commerce and its partners during SME Week. CBDC Madawaska’s contribution will focus on marketing strategy, communications, and event development. Entrepreneurs, business partners, and family and friends of award recipients will be invited to celebrate.
Thank you to our financial partners!
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) Work NB
Thank you to our partners:
District scolaire francophone du Nord-Ouest (DSFNO)
Haut-Madawaska Chamber of Commerce
Chamber of Commerce of Edmundston Region
Réseau échange femmes en affaires du Madawaska (REFAM)
UNI Financial Cooperation
Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC)
Société du développement du Centre des affaires d'Edmundston inc.
City of Edmundston
N.B. and Atlantic Association of CBDCs
CCNB, campus of Edmundston and U of M, campus of Edmundston
Opportunities New Brunswick (ONB)
Northwest Regional Service Commission
Haut-Saint-Jean Local Immigration Partnership (PLIHSJ)
Sponsors of the Madawaska Young Entrepreneur Award
CBDCs are not-for-profit organizations run by volunteers from the local business community who firmly believe in improving the economic viability of their region. There are 41 CBDC offices in Atlantic Canada dedicated to the development of small businesses and assisting entrepreneurs in accessing financing and other business training and resources.
Our objective is to help build stronger communities in Atlantic Canada by stimulating private sector employment in our rural areas. CBDCs work throughout rural Atlantic Canda in the creation, expansion and modernization of small and medium sized businesses.
General Business Loan
Designed to assist entrepreneurs when traditional avenues of financing are not available, for either creating, purchasing or succession planning.
Targeted financing for the first-time entrepreneurs starting or purchasing their first business.
Youth Loan
Tailored solutions for young entrepreneurs aged from 18 to 34 that are interested in starting, expanding or modernizing their business.
Innovation Loan
Assist in the development of the knowledge-based economy, the adaptation and commercialization of technology.
Tailored financing designed to assist social enterprises.
Self-Employment Benefit (SEB)*
Provides financial and coaching support to new entrepreneurs during the planning and start-up phase of their new business.
Business counselling in the form of advice to new and established entrepreneurs.
Advisory Services
Available to small and medium-sized business, as well as non-for-profit organization, to access technical and financial assistance by engaging consultants to assist them in various topics.
Tailored trainings in specialized areas such as marketing development, bookkeeping, feasibility studies and business analysis.
*The SEB Program is funded by the Government of Canada through the Canada-Provincial Governments Labor Market Agreements.
