The Artificial Intelligence Trophy of the Trophies of the French of Canada 2026, sponsored by HEC Montreal, is preparing to reveal its winners during a ceremony scheduled for April 14 at Collège Stanislas. This event highlights exceptional projects and visionary entrepreneurs who use artificial intelligence to create a positive impact in their community. Here is an overview of the four finalists who shine through their innovation and determination.
Elisa Groslier from CIVISION
Elisa Groslier, co-founder of CIVISION, left France during the health crisis to pursue her entrepreneurial dream in Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts, Canada. With her partner, Nicolas Iglesias, they successfully created their startup in January 2022, just four months after their arrival, thanks to winning a contest from HEC Montreal. CIVISION offers a SaaS platform for territorial intelligence, using AI to analyze geolocated data. This allows them to identify socio-economic needs, assess the impact of projects, and justify funding.
In record time, CIVISION has conquered the market: two initial contracts in five months, a workforce of nine “Civisionnaires,” and received the first prize from the HEC Montreal incubator. Their contribution has been significant, redirecting $1.2 million for manufacturing support and helping hundreds of citizens out of food insecurity. Supported by institutions like Desjardins and the French CCI in Canada, they are already considering European expansion, exemplifying a recognized path of excellence, notably awarded the EFE excellence prize in 2025.
Sébastien Le Corre at QbitSoft
Sébastien Le Corre moved to Montreal in 2016, ready to leverage his skills in data science. After a postdoctoral phase at ÉTS, he quickly engaged in a project combining artificial intelligence and metallurgy, demonstrating his desire to instigate change. His career takes a turn when he joins the National Bank of Canada, where he develops a transversal approach during large-scale projects.
In January 2024, he becomes Chief Technology Officer of QbitSoft, a quantum software startup. His ambitious vision leads him to grow the team from 5 to 20 people while integrating the Centech incubator to drive innovation. Engaged in the Montreal ecosystem, he helps bridge the Franco-Canadian communities in the field of AI and quantum, reflecting a transformation from academic researcher to deep tech player.
Arnaud Nobile from Data-Coop Culture
Arnaud Nobile, a graduate of HEC, founded Data-Coop Culture to reposition control over digital data in the cultural sector. His journey began with the creation of atuvu.ca, a platform connecting audiences with artistic events. In 2021, he launched Data-Coop Culture, promoting a model for data exploitation for over 200 cultural organizations, while ensuring the protection of their ownership.
This initiative utilizes advanced infrastructures to pool data, allowing artists to better understand audience behaviors. By integrating AI tools, Data-Coop Culture becomes a reference in innovation and protection of cultural data, illustrating the possibility of building solutions for collective impact through technology.
Tania Tanic from BrainStorm CyberRisk
Tania Tanic, originally from Martinique, has over 25 years of experience in information technology and cybersecurity. Currently leading her consultancy firm BrainStorm CyberRisk, she develops cyber-resilience solutions based on AI. Her platform CYBERTACTIK was showcased at GISEC Dubai, demonstrating her commitment to securing businesses against growing digital threats.
Alongside her leadership roles, Tania promotes inclusivity in tech and highlights female expertise. Her prestigious academic background, along with her diverse roles within organizations, makes her an emblematic figure, proudly representing French innovation in cybersecurity internationally. She embodies a model of leadership and commitment to developing strategic solutions, enhancing corporate data transparency while inspiring future generations.
