Martin Lamontagne wins BDC's Young Entrepreneur Award for Québec
(Québec City, Québec October 17, 2006) Four years ago, Martin Lamontagne and two partners co-founded Creaform with plans to develop an easy-to-use, hand-held 3D laser scan camera that would have a dramatic impact on the high-tech reverse engineering field. Today, the company numbers 80 and has achieved international status with its unique product, Handyscan 3D. This success has earned Martin, 33, BDC's Young Entrepreneur Award for Québec for which he will be honoured tonight at a ceremony in Moncton, New Brunswick.
Reverse engineering reconstructs existing physical items as 3D virtual models, to be used in 3D computer-aided design, manufacturing and engineering. In 2002, as Creaform set to work on developing the concept for the new 3D laser scan camera, the company also became a distributor for a variety of reverse engineering products. This enabled the partners to build up a base of clients and guaranteed a revenue stream. "We knew the company had to be profitable right from the start," explains Martin. "That's how we were able to build our R&D team, grow the company and continue expanding."
Creaform's Handyscan 3D camera hit the market in July of 2005. To date, more than 100 of the cameras have been sold, a very significant number for a specialized product of this type, in just one year on the market. Clients include companies such as Honda, Renault, and Chrysler.
Laser-sharp service
Creaform now has an international network of distributors that reaches into Europe, Asia and the Americas. Three to four years ago, the partners were finding it difficult to pierce the American market and responded to interest in France by opening a subsidiary Euroform in Paris. "All our efforts in the United States paid up as well," points out Martin. "We succeeded on both fronts." In 2003, only 9% of Creaform's business was in exports, and by 2005, that number had skyrocketed to 51%.
In addition to having a one-of-a-kind product, Creaform distinguishes itself from its competitors in the realm of customer service. "Most companies just manufacture laser scanners and deliver them to the customer. We tailor our service offerings to the client's precise industry needs," emphasizes Martin. Creaform also provides on-site technicians who work with clients on laser scan inspection or data acquisition.
Creaform has an intern program and works closely with the career placement offices of institutions such as Laval University and the Montréal's École de technologie supérieure in order to recruit qualified employees. "What we look for are engaged employees," points out Martin. "We want people who value quality and customer service and who will fit into our culture. One of the ways we promote teamwork is by getting everyone together three times a year for an activity such as kayaking or canoeing."
"Martin stands out as a role model for young Canadian entrepreneurs," says BDC President and CEO Jean-René Halde. "In a short time, Creaform has made impressive inroads in foreign markets and built a solid international reputation. It's a pleasure to recognize Martin's passion, drive and excellence with this award."
"The year 2005 was a great year for us," points out Martin. "The company really exploded. We doubled our size and our export volumes, plus we launched the Handyscan 3D. We've had success with the product already and we haven't even fully developed our distribution network. The future looks very bright."
Recognition for young entrepreneurs
A major feature of Small Business Week, BDC's Young Entrepreneur Awards recognize the entrepreneurial spirit and business success of Canadians between the ages of 19 and 35. The winners one from each province and territory are selected by a committee based on criteria including success, growth potential, innovation, participation in new economy activities and community involvement. The committee also considers export performance, the entrepreneur's age when the business was started and any special challenges overcome.
Small Business Week partners
National partners help make Small Business Week a success. Western Economic Diversification, WestJet, Rogers, Export and Development Canada, CFIB and Intuit Canada are official partners of the 2006 Small Business Week and Young Entrepreneur Awards. The Canadian Chamber of Commerce has been a privileged partner of the event since 1981.
About BDC
BDC is a financial institution wholly owned by the Government of Canada. BDC actively supports the development and growth of Canadian small and medium-sized businesses through its complementary financial, investment and consulting solutions. BDC is one of Canada's Top 100 Employers for 2007.
-30-
For more information or to arrange for an interview on October 17:
Media Room:
1-877-330-4343
506-857-2117
After October 17:
Eva Boucher Hartling
Media Relations Manager
514-283-7929
