KPMG partners with Montreal incubator Zú

KPMG Canada has partnered with Zú, an incubator hub for creative industries based in downtown Montreal.

Launched in 2018 by billionaire Cirque de Soleil co-founder Guy Laliberté, Zú is an incubator that supports entrepreneurs who use technology to develop innovative products and content in the cultural, creative, and entertainment industries.

The center offers coaching programs for startups, financing expertise (including access to a venture capital fund), and open innovation services for SMES and large corporations.

“We are proud to collaborate with and welcome such a prestigious firm as KPMG into our ecosystem,” said Dimitri Gourdin, general manager of Zú. “The arrival of KPMG sends a powerful message to the members of the Zú community about our desire to support them by providing the most highly developed know-how in the country. This new partnership fills a major need in the service offering we provide to our community.”KPMG and its ventures team will provide a range of services to help Zú’s entrepreneurs advance through each stage of the business cycle, including support in obtaining tax credits and grants, auditing of financial statements, advice on ESG, and strategic partnerships. KPMG will also offer tailored workshops and training to entrepreneurs and members.

“We are committed to supporting the emergence of businesses at Zú by helping them validate their market, test their technology, and accelerate their growth,” said Benoit Lacoste-Bienvenue, managing partner for Quebec at KPMG Canada. “This will be achieved by giving them access to our network of local and international professionals, clients, and partners. The new business models and technical-creative spirit in the Zú community are truly inspiring, and this future collaboration will also allow us to deploy innovation through our ambitions.”