Originating from a family of entrepreneurs in the construction industry, Jordan Latourelle nurses a passion for the creative side of entrepreneurship. He was 19 years old when he started his first company. Over the following eight years, he became increasingly interested in technology and found that it allowed him to create even more. It was when he saw the change Uber and Shopify brought in their respective fields that Jordan realized he was technologically savvy enough to also innovate in the construction industry. He sold his company to his brother and founded Brokrete, an application that helps manage the ordering and delivery of concrete.
"Technology is my passion. Construction was my job."
Jordan started by designing a minimum viable product before creating a prototype on iOS. It’s at that point that ID Gatineau referred him to Cilex. Now approved for incubation services and as an entrepreneur in residence, he proceeded to learn more about the various financing programs available to him, was guided through the tax credit program and even became a member of the Startupfest delegation in Montréal. With this new knowledge in hand, Jordan submitted his idea to L-Spark, which admitted him in its cohort. But this was only the beginning of his adventure! Indeed, Jordan then spent nearly six months in one of the best incubators of the world in Silicon Valley, in the United States.
"Building a company is a way to create something."
We asked him what were his tips to make it to Silicon Valley.
1. Make the most of each action
Looking back, Jordan notes that he has taken advantage of each and every action he took when moving from one step to the next and thus get closer to his goals. For example, to be admitted in a first accelerator, he adapted his pitch to that specific organization. Once accepted, he then used the knowledge acquired there and the accelerator’s network of contacts to take the next step. The same strategy applies to obtaining funds. When creating an app, it first has to be designed and structured, then the user interface and pathways need to be developed in order to convince investors of its potential.
However, it is important to be aware of the importance and usefulness of each stage to be able to move in the right direction! This is why Jordan also applied to Y Combinator, in California, after finishing the L- Spark cohort. His dream being to launch his business in San Francisco, he took the means needed to get closer to his goal.
2. Have a good network
Jordan says there is no need to be afraid of “diluting” oneself to obtain better results. Yes, acquiring the right contacts can be costly, but those contacts stay forever. It is important to be well surrounded because it is those connections that open doors. Since networks are often what lead to new opportunities, it is essential to not skimp on finding the right ones! Jordan advises entrepreneurs to not be afraid to “dilute” themselves by adapting their discourse or practices to obtain good investors. Yes, adaptation can incur costs, but good contacts are a long-term value that should not be overlooked.
3. Dedication
However, not everything is about having the right contacts. You also have to deserve their help. Jordan reiterates that it is necessary to make a good impression in order to be referred. For example, he cancelled his first trip in two years to have a chance to take part in the L-Spark cohort. When the coaches asked the participants to say a few things about themselves, Jordan told them this anecdote. They realized that he was really motivated to learn, which helped his reputation as an entrepreneur.
If you also have an innovative idea and would like the advice of a seasoned expert, do sign up for the Sprint event on December 15th! Jordan Latourelle will be our guest expert and will be available to answer your questions.
