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January 15, 2020

Meet Frédéric - Operation Entrepreneur boot camp graduate and mentee


Frédéric Verville discovered the importance of business networking while attending our seven-day boot camp at Laval University. He realized that he didn’t have to do it all alone and how asking for help could make a huge difference to his business. He and his wife Roxane, his business partner, signed up for our mentoring program.


“After we started Floèm, I discovered that a lot of the skills I learned in the military could transfer to our business. I’ve been working as a supply technician for the Air Force. I’m doing purchase orders, I’m contacting suppliers, doing inventory – there’s a lot of crossover. But I didn’t have any business training.


At the Laval boot camp, I got a good base on a variety of business subjects. I realized how important networking was and how people can help each other fill in knowledge gaps. You know, when you start a business, you’re often alone and you can’t be good at everything. I wanted to build a relationship with someone and learn from them, so I signed up for the mentoring program.


“Our mentor is helping us think about things in advance, before we expand and grow.”


Our mentor, Jim, is a really good match. There are so many things he has taught us, and he is helping us look further. He has the answers to our questions and if he doesn’t, he refers us to someone in his network.


It’s really nice to have professional advice about things. It’s reassuring. After the six-month mentoring program we all plan on continuing the relationship. We really could not ask for better. We’re very happy where things are at with our business and are looking forward to growing it in Quebec and beyond.”


Floèm sells unique Labrador tea infusions. Check out their website and order some for yourself or as a gift. Frederic recommends the Rosehip & Highbush Cranberry or the Rose & Chamomile. 


Find hundreds of veteran-owned businesses in your community and online using our BuyVeteran.ca directory. If you’re interested in becoming a mentor, visit our website for more information or contact us at mentoring@princestrust.ca



PTC was honoured to present this year's Prince's Trust Canada Veteran Entrepreneur of the Year Award winner, Frédéric Verville co-founder of Floèm.

   

This award celebrates excellence and outstanding achievement in entrepreneurship, and with this award, we honour all Canadian Veteran entrepreneurs for their service, resilience, determination and success. 

 

Our organization has had the pleasure of watching Frédéric through his entrepreneurial journey as he has participated in numerous programs within Prince's Trust Canada, including 2019 boot camp, the 2020 BuyVeteran Campaign, 2019 and 2023 mentoring program.