The Brock LINC has opened applications for the next cohort of the University\u2019s business incubation program, the LINCubator.<\/p>\n
After the successful launch of the LINCubator\u2019s first cohort in November and the positive feedback received from incubator members and mentors, a second cohort has been added ahead of schedule.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe originally intended to run the program once per year,\u201d says Cassie Price, Program Manager for the Brock LINC. \u201cBut with the feedback we\u2019ve received and interest from entrepreneurs, we will be running two cohorts each year, one starting in May and the other in November.\u201d<\/p>\n
The eight-month LINCubator program supports a small group of early-stage businesses as they work to reach their next stage of venture development. Businesses selected for the program will go through a series of educational workshops as well as one-on-one mentorship sessions, coaching sessions and opportunities to meet and network with different funders and startup support organizations such as Innovate Niagara, Haltech and the Niagara Angel Network.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere are dozens of facets of starting a business, and I believe having access to such a wide variety of expertise and opportunities that the LINCubator offers is invaluable to early-stage entrepreneurs,\u201d says LINCubator mentor Sharon Reeds, Co-Founder\/CEO of Intuitive Shipping<\/a>. \u201cA major struggle in the early stages is that you don’t know what you don’t know. Brock has done a fantastic job of gathering a diverse group of mentors with varying skill sets and providing access to learning opportunities.\u201d<\/p>\n Selected entrepreneurs will have access to resources at Brock, such as co-op services, research collaborations, support from Goodman School of Business students, and access to the Brock Makerspace and Digital Scholarship Lab.<\/p>\n They\u2019ll also have access to desk space, meeting rooms, business services and a collaborative community at the Brock LINC. There is no cost for businesses to participate and Brock LINC does not take equity or share in the intellectual property of participating businesses.<\/p>\n The program is open to students, staff, faculty and anyone in the broader Niagara community. Startups from all industries are encouraged to apply. The includes tech businesses using artificial intelligence and facial recognition, product-based businesses and a social enterprise.<\/p>\n \u201cThe LINCubator connected us with highly qualified mentors, coaches and exemplary training,\u201d says LINCubator resident Vishal Badiani, CEO of Millo.ai<\/a>. \u201cIn addition, our monthly touchpoints helped customize the type of help that was needed. The Brock LINC team is always willing to connect with you, and this has really accelerated our growth. I would highly recommend the program.\u201d<\/p>\n