[EN] A micro-MBA like no other
Launch of the 3rd edition of the Micro-MBA in Matane: http://bit.ly/3CPxFsL
A micro-MBA: Nestled on the banks of the St. Lawrence River in Matane, Québec, a unique five-day micro-MBA is offered annually. Launched as a collaboration between the McGill Executive Institute and Building 21, McGill University's think tank, the program was conceived three years ago during a conversation at the Jardins de Métis with François Rioux, CEO of Groupe Rioux. At the heart of the discussion: the needs of regional entrepreneurs and Rioux’s firm belief that higher education is the key to addressing current and future challenges.
This micro-MBA is built on Building 21's Beautiful, Limitless, Unconstrained Exploration (BLUE) model applied to their scholars, which involves tapping into creativity to find unique ways of tackling situations experienced in the workplace, and developing tools to anticipate and prepare for future needs.
Jean Langelier of Développement économique Matane believed in the project from the outset and put all his energy into bringing together this first cohort of entrepreneurs and managers from all professional backgrounds. A second cohort is set for 2024.
This year’s participants—drawn from sectors as varied as community organizations, government agencies, non-profits, hospitality, large-scale industry, and specialized consulting—share a common thread: an openness to change and a commitment to putting bold ideas into action.
And their ideas are ambitious:
How can companies boost staff retention and engagement? How can they rethink meetings and workplace communication? What new performance indicators could reshape organizational culture? Participants are exploring creative solutions to challenges ranging from energy efficiency and adaptive transportation to hospitality as a sensory experience.
Even artificial intelligence is part of the conversation, with discussions on how it can be leveraged to prevent and manage mental health issues in the workplace.
For those involved, this micro-MBA isn’t just an academic exercise—it’s a laboratory for real-world impact.
Pascal Bérubé, “This is a program tailored to our reality, in French—it’s a masterstroke… we are very proud of it.”
Mayor Eddy Métivier, " We have a motivated population and engaged entrepreneurs in a region that’s moving forward!
Kristina Michaud, Bloc Québécois MP, “I’d love to take this micro-MBA as well—thank you, McGill.”
Comments from students of the 2nd cohort
"An excellent program that broadens perspectives and expands possibilities. We leave with a wealth of tools—I would recommend it without hesitation."
"It made me think more about the human side of work, beyond just tasks. Greater focus on employee engagement at all levels."
"A different way of seeing my role and approach, with much more room for innovation."
