Niagara’s innovation ecosystem recently converged at Brock University for the annual LINC Up networking event.

Hosted by Brock LINC, the event gathered entrepreneurs, students and researchers, local innovation partners, funders and University staff in the Rankin Family Pavilion on Sept. 23.

As well as discussing business ideas and building connections, attendees were also able to learn about the many programs, services and funding opportunities available through Brock and across the region.

Tamara Jensen (centre), Entrepreneurship Program Manager at Brock, was one of the University staff members on hand to connect with Niagara entrepreneurs and innovation organizations during the annual LINC Up event on Sept. 23.

Several University teams shared opportunities available to the community, including Co-op, Career and Experiential Education, Professional and Continuing Studies, and the Brock LINC.

“I certainly learned a lot about how Brock values community and industry connections. Our department has some unique expertise, and I see now how Brock LINC can help us reach people who could benefit in their own product research and development,” said Thad Harroun, Profess and Chair in the Department of Physics.

Local and provincial innovation ecosystem organizations in attendance included Innovate Niagara, Niagara College’s Business and Commercialization Innovation Centre, the St. Catharines Enterprise Centre, Accel North, Innovation Factory, Venture Niagara and the Niagara Angel Network. Mitacs and the Ontario Centre for Innovation were also on site to connect with faculty interested in pursuing research projects.

Katie Poissant-Paul, Client Advisor at Innovate Niagara, says the organization sees value in events like LINC up because they give local entrepreneurs an opportunity to connect with innovation organizations and resources from across the region.

“For Innovate Niagara, LINC Up is a great opportunity to meet new entrepreneurs, introduce them to our services and make sure local founders are aware of the support available to them. Events like this play an important role in building a connected innovation ecosystem and supporting business and community development across Niagara,” she said.

To learn more about how the Brock LINC can support innovative ideas out of Brock University, contact Karyn Gicante, Innovation Program Coordinator and [email protected]