The Innovation Quarters (IQ), Greater Sudbury’s new business incubator, is seeking applications for the second cohort of its incubation program.
This complimentary six-month program presents a unique opportunity for aspiring and new entrepreneurs who are eager to learn, develop new skills and propel their new business forward. With a comprehensive offering of training, mentorship, coaching and coworking space, participants will be equipped with the tools they need to succeed in business.
Interested entrepreneurs can submit their application to the Innovation Quarters by Sept. 24.
The power of mentorship
Embarking on the entrepreneurial path is an exciting and ambitious endeavour. However, starting a business is no easy feat, and challenges are an inherent part of the entrepreneurial journey. That is where incubation programs, like the one offered at the IQ, come into play, providing vital support to help navigate the challenging terrain.
One of the key benefits of the program lies in the opportunity to connect with experienced mentors who provide guidance and expertise to help entrepreneurs move their ideas forward.
Bernie Aho, CEO and Co-Founder of TimeHero, serves as an IQ mentor, leveraging his own experiences in the tech industry to help entrepreneurs navigate the challenges of starting and growing their own businesses.
“Through mentorship, entrepreneurs can gain insights, avoid common pitfalls and make informed decisions to drive their ventures forward,” says Aho.
Aho explains that building community is an important factor in running a successful business. “One of the key advantages of the Innovation Quarters is its vibrant community. Within this community, entrepreneurs can connect with like-minded individuals, share experiences and collaborate on innovative projects. The interactions and networking within this community can be a valuable source of inspiration, support and growth.”
“As a mentor,” says Aho, “I bring practical knowledge and lessons learned from my own entrepreneurial journey to help entrepreneurs navigate the early stages of their business ventures. Whether it's developing a solid business plan, refining their value proposition, or making strategic decisions, I offer insights that set them on a path towards success.”
Business Strategy Consultant Karen Hastie is also an IQ mentor., “The program provides entrepreneurs the opportunity during the early development stages of their business to receive external support such as business advice, resources, use of a state-of-the-art office space and mentorship to help accelerate their business while allowing them to preserve capital,” she says.
“By having a business mentor, entrepreneurs can lean on their mentor for their knowledge and experience to help navigate the many challenges they may face with a start-up or the launch of new product and service.”
Hastie has a personal motive for joining the program as a mentor. “I personally have always had a passion for business and enjoy helping small businesses take an idea and run with it. By becoming a business mentor for the Innovation Quarters, I get to enjoy helping and guiding mentees on their journey to entrepreneurship success.”
What IQ participants are saying
Thirteen local entrepreneurs are currently participating in the first cohort of the program and receiving a competitive edge through training in foundational business-building topics as well as one-on-one mentorship.
Anthony Farrugia, a member of the IQ and owner of Peak Service highlights the invaluable coaching and mentorship he has received through the Incubator Program. He emphasizes the significant role this support plays in establishing robust and thriving businesses.
“The outstanding support staff and mentors found within the programs housed under the IQ contribute unmeasurable value to new businesses. They provide guidance and structure within a controlled environment for entrepreneurs of all kinds to come and learn from their feedback and grow into their roles within the community. I am so grateful for the opportunity I have been granted to work with such an amazing team,” says Farrugia.
Local photographer, videographer and artist Cassidy McAuliffe says the IQ program has been a tremendous benefit to her as an entrepreneur and has helped her to connect with peers.
“The Innovation Quarters benefits me as an entrepreneur through direct business support from knowledgeable experts and mentors,” says McAuliffe. “It connects me to a community of like-minded entrepreneurs and helps me define and achieve my business goals.”
McAuliffe explains that being a sole proprietor can be challenging and she appreciates the support and accountability factor the IQ program provides.
“I am busy with the day-to-day work and investing time into my business planning and goals can easily get pushed down the priority list. The Innovation Quarters is my accountability beacon. Being in the Incubator Program holds me accountable to work on my business goals while having a knowledgeable network and mentors to help guide my decisions. It is a huge relief to have experts to turn to for advice as an entrepreneur.”
Ready to get started? Email [email protected], call 705-688-3918 or visit the company website.