Identity
Built to meet challenges
Created in 2002 with the support of Power Corporation of Canada, Sagard unites a group of influential entrepreneurial families led by the Desmarais family and renowned financial institutions.This innovative ownership structure has resulted in a unique investment philosophy and focus.
The white bear
Sagard’s corporate identity reflects its commitment to the values that underpinned its sponsor's success. The company is named after Gabriel Sagard, an adventurous, inquisitive French missionary who immigrated to Quebec in the 17th century and compiled the first French-Huron dictionary.
The white bear, our emblem, is capable of adapting to a diversified, complex environment ranging from dry land to ice floes and open water. A renowned hunter, the white bear plays a major role in Inuit mythologyand is particularly admired for its strength and resourcefulness.
Our values
An entrepreneurial culture
With a commitment to the long-term, Sagard’s entrepreneurial culture stems from the close cooperation between its sponsor and the influential families who over time built successfull companies.
A proactive contribution to value creation
Sagard actively supports the managers of its portfolio investments in sustainably growing their companies at home and abroad.
A flexible, responsive organisation
Sagard is organised to act swiftly and efficiently to support the growth projects of our portfolio companies. Our overriding goal is to help companies, led by successful managers, to grow and flourish, we therefore take a very flexible approach in structuring investments, with solutions ranging from minority or majority stakes to LBOs and business development capital. Our decision-making centre is based in Paris, enabling us to demonstrate exceptional responsiveness.