When Innovation comes through concrete action in the field

The article, in the Innovation and Productivity Chronicles, entitled “When entrepreneurs roll up their sleeves...” by Francis Vailles, published on January 19, 2026, in La Presse highlights a reality that we see every day with SMEs at Inno-centre: productivity and innovation are not abstract concepts, but very concrete levers that take shape when entrepreneurs “roll up their sleeves.”

What makes the difference?

- A detailed understanding of operations by our advisors.

- Decisions based on real data.

- Continuous improvements, sometimes simple but structural.

- And above all, the ability to move quickly from reflection to action. This is an article worth reading (and sharing) for all SMEs that want to transform their innovation ambitions into measurable performance gains!

Read the article here (French Original version) : Innovation et productivité | Quand des entrepreneurs se retroussent les manches… | La Presse

‍This article mentions companies in Quebec, but Inno-centre | IC Canada covers all SMEs in Canada, and there are many success stories we could share with you.

See below a detailed summary of this article :

The article highlights a growing consensus among business leaders and economic observers: improving productivity is one of the most pressing challenges facing Quebec’s economy—and innovation is a key part of the solution. However, innovation is not portrayed as a vague or purely technological concept. Instead, it is shown as something deeply rooted in day-to-day operational realities.

The article emphasizes that the most meaningful productivity gains often come from entrepreneurs who are willing to engage directly with their operations. By closely examining production processes, workflows, and organizational practices, these business leaders identify inefficiencies and implement targeted improvements. Innovation, in this context, is less about radical disruption and more about continuous, practical problem-solving.

Several examples illustrate how hands-on leadership leads to tangible results. Entrepreneurs who take the time to understand their data, optimize their processes, and involve their teams are better positioned to increase efficiency, improve quality, and remain competitive. The article underscores that these gains are rarely accidental; they are the result of deliberate choices, discipline, and sustained effort.

Another key message is that productivity growth is not limited to large corporations. Small and medium-sized enterprises play a critical role and, when properly supported, can achieve performance levels that rival or exceed broader averages. Access to expertise, data, and structured support is presented as a major enabler of this success.

Ultimately, the article argues that innovation and productivity are inseparable from action. Strategies, plans, and technologies only deliver value when they are translated into concrete changes on the ground. The entrepreneurs who “roll up their sleeves” are those who turn ambition into measurable performance gains—and who contribute most effectively to the economic vitality of their regions and of Quebec as a whole.