CAE Capital Celebrates 40 Years of Economic and Human Impact

PRESS RELEASE

For immediate release

CAE Capital Celebrates 40 Years of Economic and Human Impact

Beloeil, June 20, 2025 – On June 19, CAE Capital proudly celebrated its 40th anniversary alongside numerous partners, clients, dignitaries, former board members, and collaborators. The event, held in the warm and welcoming atmosphere of Mouton Village in Saint-Charles-sur-Richelieu, highlighted four decades of commitment and major contributions to regional economic development.

 

A Memorable and Inspiring Evening

The celebration featured moments filled with emotion and forward-thinking vision. Ms. Nathalie Berthiaume, Chair of the Board, and Ms. Nathalie Dubord, Executive Director, reflected on CAE Capital’s evolution, the challenges overcome, and the ambitions ahead to better support local businesses.

Entrepreneur and Master of Ceremonies Ms. Isabelle Bettez delivered a powerful and heartfelt message:

“To me, the CAE is more than numbers and ratios – it’s a partner who believes in you like a teammate. It’s the one who says yes when others hesitate, the one who jumps in when everyone else is waiting. CAE was instrumental in our journey – it was the key link that made our story possible.”

— Isabelle Bettez, Co-founder of 8D Technologies and Master of Ceremonies

Another highlight was the passionate speech from The Honourable Martin Cauchon, former Secretary of State responsible for Canada Economic Development:

“What I hope is that the success of CAEs and SADCs – which moves me tonight – continues, and that people come to know, understand, and recognize it. (...) When I think of financing, I think of CAE. So let’s make sure we spread the good news and that the enthusiasm I feel here tonight, this drive to build, becomes contagious.”
— The Honourable Martin Cauchon

 

A Formal Tribute and Tangible Results

The evening was also marked by the presentation of an official certificate from the National Assembly of Quebec, recognizing CAE Capital’s 40 years of commitment to local economic development. This symbolic gesture was delivered on behalf of Mr. Simon Jolin-Barrette, MNA for Borduas, by Ms. Isabelle Tremblay, political attaché, in the presence of our guests.

 

Since its founding in 1985, CAE Capital has:
Financed 1,180 projects
Disbursed over $180 million in loans
Generated $441 million in economic impact
Supported more than 4,000 individuals
Helped sustain a total of 11,600 jobs

 

“Since 1985, CAE Capital has supported, financed, empowered – and sometimes simply listened to – thousands of entrepreneurs. We’ve adapted, expanded our services, and stayed true to one priority: creating value for local businesses.”
— Nathalie Berthiaume, Chair of the Board

“Every loan we grant is a helping hand, every piece of advice a compass, every success a reminder that the future is built together.”
— Nathalie Dubord, Executive Director

 

A Living Legacy and a Renewed Mission

The evening also honored CAE Capital’s builders – past executive directors, former board chairs, early partners, and all past and present team members who have contributed to the organization’s growth and resilience.

As it celebrates its 40th year, CAE Capital reaffirms its dedication to playing a strategic role in the revival and growth of SMEs, particularly in facing today’s challenges: digital transformation, sustainable innovation, and workforce shortages.

 

About CAE Capital

CAE Capital is a non-profit organization founded in 1985. Its mission is to contribute to regional economic growth by investing in business development while fostering job creation and retention. A proud member of the Réseau des SADC et CAE.