Desjardins Group donates $2.575 million to propel innovation, entrepreneurship, and professional development at Concordia

In a constantly evolving society, where socioeconomic challenges are significant, Desjardins Group has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting entrepreneurship and education by making a major donation of $2.575 million to Concordia. This financial support will drive innovation and professional development initiatives while strengthening a strategic partnership that promises significant benefits for Montreal and Quebec society. As the largest financial co-operative in North America, Desjardins Group has reinforced its dedication to training and supporting the leaders of tomorrow.

“This extraordinary commitment by Desjardins Group demonstrates the power of strategic partnerships in building our future,” says Concordia President Graham Carr. “Our university’s leadership in innovation, education and research ensures that these investments translate into meaningful societal and economic benefits for Montreal, Quebec and beyond.”

The donation to the Campaign for Concordia: Next-Gen Now will support a suite of initiatives benefiting students, startups and the broader community.

“Teaming up with Concordia University to invest in innovation and education means more hands-on opportunities for students to learn and hone their skills. We’re creating an environment where ideas can develop into new businesses. We are deeply proud of this partnership. For us, it’s a way to help our society meet future challenges,” says Guy Cormier, LLD 22, President and CEO of Desjardins Group.

The gift of $2.575 million will fund two core pillars:

Campus Startup Desjardins: Led by District 3, Concordia’s innovation hub, this initiative includes programs such as the Desjardins Scientific Awards, the Desjardins Co-Founders Matching Initiative and the Desjardins Patent Awards, all designed to accelerate the creation of high-impact, scientific and technology-driven startups. Desjardins’ support will help encourage researchers and academics to pursue entrepreneurship, turning their ideas, research and innovations into tangible products and businesses.

Career Development Initiatives: Delivered through Career Management Services at the John Molson School, these initiatives include the Desjardins Internship Program, the Desjardins Women in Finance Initiative and the annual John Molson Career Fair presented by Desjardins.

“Through this multi-year partnership with our Career Management Services, Desjardins will help foster greater collaboration between industry and the university as well as encourage diversity in fields such as finance where women continue to face significant underrepresentation.” says Anne-Marie Croteau, dean of the John Molson School. “This investment will not only directly benefit our students, but also support businesses throughout Quebec with greater access to top young talent.”

The major gift will also support flagship events such as the Desjardins Founders Interview Series, the Desjardins Industry Spotlight Series and the John Molson Career Fair. These initiatives will foster interdisciplinary collaboration, showcase emerging technologies and provide students with crucial exposure to industry leaders.

Desjardins Group’s support aligns with the broader contributions Concordia is making to Montreal and Quebec. According to a recent impact assessment, the institution generated nearly $2 billion in value added to the Montreal and Quebec economies in 2022.

This impact includes $925 million in enhanced productivity through its 179,000 graduates who work in the province; $301 million from research activities; and $763 million in spending by the university, its students and visitors from outside Quebec.

Desjardins Group’s latest donation builds on its long-standing relationship with Concordia, including a $2-million gift in 2007 that established the Desjardins Centre for Innovation and Financing.

“Desjardins Group has strengthened a tremendous legacy of support for our community,” says Paul Chesser, BA 94, GrDip 97, vice-president of Advancement. “The financial co-operative’s dedication to innovation and career readiness aligns with Concordia’s mission to prepare our students for the challenges of the future. We are deeply grateful for Desjardins Group’s generosity and vision.”