News

January 25, 2017

Burlington Economic Development Corporation to Lead the Development of an Innovation Centre

January 25, 2017, Burlington, ON – BURLINGTON-BASED INNOVATION CENTRE WILL PROVIDE MUCH NEEDED INFRASTRUCTURE FOR INCREASING INNOVATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN BURLINGTON.

Burlington will open the doors to an Innovation Centre in June 2017, providing the local start-up community with direct access to programming, mentorship, and support that is needed to grow a business. While the official name of the Centre has not yet been announced, Mayor Goldring did confirm in his State of the City address on January 24 that BEDC will be developing the 8,500-sq.ft. space at 5500 North Service Road in the Burloak Business Park.

The initiative to develop a space dedicated to supporting innovation and entrepreneurship locally is in direct alignment with the City of Burlington’s Strategic Vision of a City that Grows.

The Innovation Centre will provide a physical space where entrepreneurs, mentors, investors and established businesses can connect and thrive. “The Innovation Centre is an exciting initiative requested by community stakeholders in the new innovation and entrepreneurship strategy,” said Mayor Rick Goldring. “This centre will help businesses looking to start-up or grow in Burlington, as well as established companies looking to innovate. This will bolster our economy and bring more jobs to Burlington.”

A one stop destination for new and growing technology companies, the Centre will be dedicated to connecting, developing, and advancing entrepreneurs at all stages. It will also provide exciting opportunities for mid-size and enterprise companies to gain visibility in the technology community, connect to top talent, and tap into innovation resources. The facility will aim to create an environment where entrepreneurial energy can thrive organically.

According to Karen Grant, Executive Director of Angel One Investor Network, “We are proud to call Burlington home, and we are committed to becoming a key tenant of the Innovation Centre and to contribute to its success. Having a space where entrepreneurs can easily connect to the resources they need is vital to their success. This new facility will allow our members more opportunities to network and interact with early and growth companies and offer leadership and mentorship, in addition to the potential for their investment.”

Sponsorship opportunities will be available, and inquiries can be directed to Claire Green at claire.green@burlington.ca or (905) 332-9415 ext. 7251.