The Power of Community: Stories from Black entrepreneurs in Canada 

When you think about building a business, it’s easy to fall into the “hustle hard” mindset. But for many Black entrepreneurs, success is less about the grind and more about the power of community. Across Canada, young Black business owners are making it happen through networks, mentorship, and collective support that fuel their drive. 

For Black History Month, we caught up with three inspiring entrepreneurs from Futurpreneur’s Black Entrepreneur Startup Program (BESP). Their stories highlight how the program and the broader community helped them overcome obstacles and thrive. 

Alain Barcimin: Nurturing connections through Villa 961 

Co-Founder, Villa 961 (Quebec City, QC) 

Alain Barcimin co-founded Villa 961, a Mediterranean restaurant in Quebec City, with Hussein Ezzeddine to create a space where people can gather and share culinary experiences. 

“Futurpreneur gave me the tools I needed to bring my ideas to life,” says Alain. “From Rodrique Lomomba’s (Black Entrepreneur Startup Program Specialist) advice to Karoline Yelle (Business Development Manager), who helped me structure my business plan, I felt supported every step of the way. Even Tamara Chanoine, Director of the Black Entrepreneur Startup Program, visited my restaurant—it was an incredible show of support.” 

Alain explains how the guidance went beyond financial support. “They helped me analyze my business, avoid mistakes, and connected me with a mentor who equipped me with essential tools.” 

His restaurant also became a place of inspiration. “People often visit not just to eat but to ask about starting their own businesses. I always tell them about Futurpreneur because I’ve seen firsthand how they can help.” 

His advice: “You don’t need to have everything figured out to begin. Take that first small step, and you’ll go places you never imagined.” 

Mary-Noah Ndateramye: Building a village for success 

Founder, Garderie Les Petits Yogis (Beaumont, AB) 

For Mary-Noah Ndateramye, opening her daycare wasn’t easy. Facing multiple loan rejections from banks, she found a lifeline through Futurpreneur’s Black Entrepreneur Startup Program. 

“Without their support, I wouldn’t have been able to open my daycare,” says Mary-Noah. A key connection came through Black Canadian Women in Action (BCW in Action). “Their workshops and networking events introduced me to other women entrepreneurs who encouraged me to keep going.” 

It was Jeanne Lehman (CEO of Black Canadian Women in Action) who connected her with Marie-Laure Polydore (Senior Business Development Manager) at Futurpreneur. “That connection made all the difference,” she says. Futurpreneur helped her fine-tune her business plan and financial projections. 

Mary-Noah credits representation and community for her strength. “Seeing people like you succeed helps you believe you can do it too. But we need to support each other more—we need to build our own village where we can share successes and challenges.” 

Her advice: “If you have a solid idea, don’t wait for the perfect moment. Just start.” 

Lance Thomas-James: Accountability and community support 

Founder, Vancity Slingshot Rental (Vancouver, BC) 

For Lance Thomas-James, joining Futurpreneur’s Black Entrepreneur Startup Program was a game-changer. 

“At first, I didn’t think having a mentor would make a big difference,” admits Lance. “But my mentor helped me think differently—especially about budgeting and accountability.” 

Futurpreneur’s structured approach also made an impact. “Their platform keeps you on track with tasks and reflections that ensure you’re ready to move forward.” 

Lance highlights the challenges of competition within the Black entrepreneurial community. “We need to realize there’s strength in numbers and collaboration,” he says. A visit to Atlanta inspired him when fellow entrepreneurs generously shared insights. 

His advice: “Get with Futurpreneur! Don’t think you need to do it all alone. Build a team, accept help, and listen more than you talk. That knowledge is what will help you grow.” 

No matter where you are in your entrepreneurial journey, your community can help you level up. Just like Alain, Mary-Noah and Lance, you don’t have to go it alone—Futurpreneur has the resources, mentors and networks to help. 

Don’t wait for the stars to align. Connect with Futurpreneur today to get the support you need to make your business a reality. Learn more