From groundbreaking technology creating more effective vaccines to innovative startups advancing the fields of game design and women\u2019s health, the Brock LINC has been home to many successes shaping the world as we know it.<\/p>\n
To mark a successful first five years, Brock University\u2019s innovation centre and incubator is hosting a community event that will celebrate the achievements of its researchers and entrepreneurs and highlight their cutting-edge work.<\/p>\n
The inaugural Brock Innovation Showcase will take place Tuesday, March 18, welcoming both the University and wider Niagara communities to learn about research-based technologies and businesses developed with the support of Brock LINC.<\/p>\n
Held from 5 to 8 p.m. in Brock\u2019s Rankin Family Pavilion, the event will bring together industry professionals, investors\u00a0and community partners to\u00a0celebrate research\u00a0and\u00a0commercialization successes.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe research taking place at Brock is leading the way in so many fields, and the technologies that are being developed out of that research are poised to drive the next breakthroughs in health care, and the development of new products, services and businesses,\u201d says Farzana Crocco, Executive Director of Innovation, Commercialization and Entrepreneurship.<\/p>\n
Among the technologies to be showcased are self-healing silicones, ultra-fast photodetectors, new therapies for age-related diseases, more effective vaccines, and wine glasses for virtual reality experiences.<\/p>\n
The Innovation Showcase will include the presentation of two new awards: the Brock Entrepreneur of the Year Award, which recognizes entrepreneurial excellence or potential of a Brock entrepreneur, and the Brock Innovator of the Year Award, which recognizes the social or economic impact of Brock researchers.<\/p>\n
The event will also award $125,000 in funding to entrepreneurs and small- and medium-sized enterprises (SME) through the Brock SME IP Support Program,\u00a0Laura Sabia Entrepreneurial Award, and the Dobson Entrepreneurial Excellence Prize.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019re grateful to have the support of funders and donors like Intellectual Property Ontario,\u00a0Brock Chancellor Hilary\u00a0Pearson and her husband Michael Sabia,\u00a0and the John Dobson Foundation,\u00a0who have such a significant impact on Brock student entrepreneurs and University-affiliated entrepreneurs and SMEs,\u201d says Crocco.<\/p>\n
\u201cThese awards are more than just financial support; they are a recognition of hard work, creativity and vision that drive positive change. We are thrilled to celebrate so much talent.\u201d<\/p>\n
The event will include complimentary refreshments and snacks as well as a cash bar.<\/p>\n
Free parking is available, with details provided upon registration.<\/p>\n