NICOLE MARTEL
CEO of AQT
With undeniable leadership, she has successfully brought together entrepreneurs, government bodies, and organizations related to the sector to promote Quebec in the global technology market.
Nicole’s attraction to entrepreneurship appeared early in her life. In her early twenties, she partnered with a colleague to launch a commercial decoration company. Her partner handled the artistic side, while Nicole managed the business operations. Watching her entrepreneurial spirit flourish, she clearly identified what mattered most to her: innovative ideas and the challenges businesses face.
An unexpected invitation presented her with the golden opportunity to combine her two passions. In 1992, when she joined AQT, Nicole’s career began to intertwine with the development of Quebec’s tech industry.
By working alongside young, innovative entrepreneurs, Nicole became aware of their needs in management, finance, and marketing. To create an environment conducive to their growth, it would be best to understand their competitors and bring potential partners together. Inspired by innovation and challenges, Nicole became the driving force behind major events that have marked Quebec’s technology community over the past three decades.
The involvement of its members eloquently demonstrates her unifying spirit. A true networker, she actively participates in several business committees and sits on boards of directors, where she is deeply engaged, particularly holding roles within treasury and governance committees. She holds the Canadian certification from the Institute of Corporate Directors (IAS.A).
Nicole’s attraction to entrepreneurship appeared early in her life. In her early twenties, she partnered with a colleague to launch a commercial decoration company. Her partner handled the artistic side, while Nicole managed the business operations. Watching her entrepreneurial spirit flourish, she clearly identified what mattered most to her: innovative ideas and the challenges businesses face.
An unexpected invitation presented her with the golden opportunity to combine her two passions. In 1992, when she joined AQT, Nicole’s career began to intertwine with the development of Quebec’s tech industry.
By working alongside young, innovative entrepreneurs, Nicole became aware of their needs in management, finance, and marketing. To create an environment conducive to their growth, it would be best to understand their competitors and bring potential partners together. Inspired by innovation and challenges, Nicole became the driving force behind major events that have marked Quebec’s technology community over the past three decades.
The involvement of its members eloquently demonstrates her unifying spirit. A true networker, she actively participates in several business committees and sits on boards of directors, where she is deeply engaged, particularly holding roles within treasury and governance committees. She holds the Canadian certification from the Institute of Corporate Directors (IAS.A).
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
- Over 30 years of involvement in the development of Quebec’s technology ecosystem
- CEO of AQT since 2008, leading the largest network of technology companies in Quebec
- Led strategic public affairs efforts on artificial intelligence, tax reform, digital identity, and export policy
- Played a key role in shaping major public policies, including Quebec’s Digital Economy Action Plan
- Recipient of the 2025 Spirit of TECNA Award for outstanding contribution to tech diplomacy in North America
- Serves on several boards of directors, including TECHNOCompétences, Université TÉLUQ, and Expansion Québec
- Holds the IAS.A designation from the Institute of Corporate Directors of Canada
- Has served on executive, audit, governance, and strategic committees within various institutions