Meet Chantal Michel, RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Awards Innovation Finalist

Chantal Michel is a 2025 RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Awards finalist and a seasoned business leader. She is at the helm of Librairie Raffin, Promotion du Livre SDM, and Publications SDM, where she combines strategy, innovation, and long-term vision to strengthen the cultural sector.

In 2009, she took on the challenge of acquiring Librairie Raffin, which was facing bankruptcy. She transformed it into a dynamic network of independent bookstores rooted in expertise and personalized service. She also created Laralivre, a digital management system now used by independent bookstores across Quebec, reflecting her commitment to modernizing the industry while staying true to its traditions.

As president of the Librairies indépendantes du Québec cooperative, Chantal has led major national projects and secured resources that will shape the industry for years to come. Recognized for her rigour and vision, she continues to build sustainable business models that champion culture and innovation. Meet Chantal and discover the leader driving transformation in Canadian literature.

I knew I wanted to be an entrepreneur when…

In 1994, finding a job proved to be a difficult task. Rather than waiting for an opportunity, I chose to create my own career and build my own path.

Entrepreneurship is made for me because…

I don’t like routine, and I thrive on challenges that push me to go further every time.

The impact I hope to make through my work is…

To inspire a vision where businesses are not limited to profit, but generate a lasting positive impact.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned on my entrepreneurial journey is…

To surround myself with strong and competent people, capable of supporting me and helping the company grow alongside me.

My proudest accomplishment is…

Persevering despite obstacles, and turning every setback into a stepping stone.

The biggest risk I took that paid off was…

Acquiring Librairie Raffin in 2009, when it was facing bankruptcy. This bold gamble allowed me to build a strong and respected network of independent bookstores, while contributing to the cultural vitality of Quebec.

My biggest setback has been…

Having had to make difficult decisions, such as ending collaborations that were not working out.

I overcame it by…

Turning every obstacle into a learning experience and refusing to give up.

The best advice I’ve received as an entrepreneur was…

To always believe in your vision, even if others don’t believe in it yet.

I surprise people when I tell them…

I was placed in foster care at the age of 2, an experience that shaped my resilience and determination very early on.

If I had an extra hour in the day, I would use it to…

Read more, simply for the pleasure of it.

If you Googled me, you still wouldn’t know…

I never sought to be in the spotlight; it is my projects and my teams that drive me.

The future excites me because…

it is filled with challenges and opportunities to innovate in a sector I am passionate about. I sincerely believe that independent bookstores and culture will still have an essential role to play in tomorrow’s society.

Connect with Chantal Michel on LinkedIn.