Type: Press Releases

Innovation Cluster Partners with Kawartha Manufacturers Association (KMA) to Provide Free Memberships for New Manufacturers and Clean Tech/Social Innovation Startups in Peterborough and the Kawarthas

April 19, 2023 – PETERBOROUGH, ON – The Innovation Cluster Peterborough and the Kawarthas (“ICPK”) is thrilled to unveil its partnership with the Kawartha Manufacturers Association (KMA). This collaboration aims to offer complimentary membership in its association to emerging manufacturers in Peterborough and the Kawarthas, along with early-stage Innovation Cluster clients in the manufacturing and clean tech/social innovation sectors.

Tom Sayers, one of longest standing members of the Kawartha Manufacturers Association said, “the KMA was founded 30 years ago with a mission to increase the competitiveness of manufacturers in Peterborough and the City of Kawartha Lakes by providing forums for sharing best practices, collaborating on training initiatives, and creating a network of experienced problem-solvers.”

Diane Richard, President of Diatom Consulting and Professional Training, is a KMA member and serves on the Innovation Cluster board. Diane emphasized the importance of KMA’s initiative, stating, “the free membership program offered by KMA is an incredible opportunity for new manufacturers and Innovation Cluster clients to access invaluable resources and connect with industry experts. It will undoubtedly contribute to the growth and success of businesses in our region.”

Camila Duarte, Senior Innovation Specialist & Programs Director at the Innovation Cluster, stated, “this initiative aligns perfectly with our goal of fostering innovation and growth in the manufacturing and clean tech/social innovation sectors. It’s a great way for emerging businesses to tap into the wealth of knowledge and experience within the KMA community.”

By offering free memberships to emerging manufacturers in Peterborough and the Kawarthas, along with early-stage Innovation Cluster clients, KMA aims to expedite the growth of these new manufacturers and startups, benefiting the community by creating skilled technology jobs resulting from their endeavours.

John Jankowski, current KMA Chair, encourages local manufacturers and Innovation Cluster clients to take advantage of the free membership offer or renew their existing memberships. “We are very excited to bring our community back together after several years of challenges for our members and the inability to hold events” says Jankowski.

For more information on the free membership offer or to renew a membership, please contact the KMA at info@thekma.com

About the Kawartha Manufacturers Association:

The Kawartha Manufacturers Association is a non-profit organization founded 30 years ago with a mission to increase the competitiveness of manufacturers in Peterborough and the City of Kawartha Lakes. Through forums, training initiatives, and networking, the KMA brings together experienced professionals to share best practices, foster collaboration, and support the growth of the manufacturing sector in the region.

Email: info@thekma.com

Website: www.thekma.com

About the Innovation Cluster 

Innovation Cluster Peterborough and the Kawarthas (ICPK) is a non-profit organization that supports entrepreneurs to launch, grow and scale their businesses. They help entrepreneurs reach their business goals so that our local community, job market, and economy continue to grow.

The ICPK supports startup businesses by providing dynamic programming, mentorship, workshops, and networking opportunities to entrepreneurs through three core programs.

STARTUP INCUBATOR – a full-service Startup Incubator Program

STARTup Visa Program Canada – an Immigrant Entrepreneurship Program

FastStart – Student Entrepreneurship Program

For more information on the ICPK, visit Innovation Cluster at www.innovationcluster.ca 

Core Funding is provided by The City of Peterborough, Trent University, Fleming College, The City of Kawartha Lakes, OMAFRA, Feddev Ontario, and Franklin Empire. 

Media Contact

Innovation Cluster

Nicole Stephenson

Interim CEO

nstephenson@innovationcluster.ca

Cubs’ Lair 2023 Winner Announced: Richa Sharma Secures $3,000 Grand Prize for Innovative Business Idea, TastEATools

March 28, 2023 – PETERBOROUGH, ON – The Innovation Cluster Peterborough and the Kawarthas is thrilled to announce the winners of the Cubs’ Lair 2023 entrepreneurial competition. The event, held on March 23rd at One Eighty Sports Pub in Peterborough. Young entrepreneurs from the region pitched their innovative business ideas to a panel of esteemed judges.

First place, with a cash prize of $3,000, was awarded to Richa Sharma for her groundbreaking business, TastEATools. TastEATools is an edible cutlery manufacturing business that creates delicious and sustainable utensils made from whole grain flour, natural sweeteners, and flavors. The company offers a variety of sweet and savory spoons, cups, bowls, forks, and straws. They also provide unique dining experiences through their “Joy Boxes” and cooking classes. Richa Sharma has graciously committed to donating 20% ($600) of her prize money to the Canadian Council of the Blind’s Peterborough Chapter, further exemplifying her dedication to making a positive impact on the community.

The runner-up, taking home a $1,500 prize, was Sahil Dabgotra and Dev Upadhyay, who presented their impressive business concept, Sustainabite. Sustainabite is a business application that collects surplus food from local grocery stores, fast food chains, and other food outlets to feed the homeless population. By using data analytics and machine learning technologies, they aim to optimize logistics and ensure efficient and effective distribution of food.

Finally, in third place and receiving a $500 cash prize was Maninder Singh, Amandeep Kaur, Amila Peiris, and Haritha Bollepalli for their innovative venture, Titan SmartLock. Titan SmartLock is a reliable, affordable, and highly secure smart lock solution that operates using NFC technology. This smart lock can be controlled by a smartphone application and offers a manual operation mode when the smartphone is not available.

The Cubs’ Lair 2023 competition showcased groups of talented entrepreneurs pitching their businesses in front of a live audience. The panel of expert judges included local business leaders and professionals who provided valuable feedback and guidance to all participants.

This year’s event was made possible through the support of the Innovation Cluster Peterborough and the Kawarthas to ensure the finalists received the best possible feedback on their business ideas.

The Innovation Cluster congratulates all Cubs’ Lair 2023 participants for their exceptional creativity, innovation, and dedication. We look forward to witnessing the continued success of these promising entrepreneurs as they work to grow their businesses in the Peterborough community and beyond.

About the Innovation Cluster 

Innovation Cluster Peterborough and the Kawarthas (ICPK) is a non-profit organization that supports entrepreneurs to launch, grow and scale their businesses. They help entrepreneurs reach their business goals so that our local community, job market, and economy continue to grow.

The ICPK supports startup businesses by providing dynamic programming, mentorship, workshops, and networking opportunities to entrepreneurs through three core programs.

STARTUP INCUBATOR – a full-service Startup Incubator Program

STARTup Visa Program Canada – an Immigrant Entrepreneurship Program

FastStart – Student Entrepreneurship Program

For more information on the ICPK, visit Innovation Cluster at www.innovationcluster.ca 

Core Funding is provided by The City of Peterborough, Trent University, Fleming College, Peterborough Region Angel Network, The City of Kawartha Lakes, OMAFRA, Feddev Ontario, and Franklin Empire. 

Media Contact

Innovation Cluster

Nicole Stephenson

Interim CEO

nstephenson@innovationcluster.ca

Innovation Cluster Peterborough and the Kawarthas Partners with Mitacs to Launch eAccelerate Program for Student and Postdoctoral Entrepreneurs

March 8, 2023 – PETERBOROUGH, ON – Innovation Cluster Peterborough and the Kawarthas (“ICPK”) is excited to announce its partnership with Mitacs to launch the eAccelerate program for students and postdoctoral entrepreneurs at Trent University. This program is designed to fund students looking to further develop the research or technology at the core of their business while being hosted by an incubator facility.

Mitacs is a Canadian non-profit that connects academic researchers with industry partners to work on innovative research projects to generate impactful outcomes and drive economic growth. Since 2003, Mitacs has facilitated over 10,000 research collaborations between academia, industry, and government.

The eAccelerate program aims to help early-stage businesses develop, pilot and test new products, service, or technology. It also enables entrepreneurs to improve an existing product, service, or technology. The flexibility of this program makes it an ideal option for startup companies and entrepreneurs with limited budgets. Applications are accepted anytime, and evaluation is completed within 6-8 weeks. 

Kristin Spong, Regional Director – Ontario Business Development at Mitacs, stated, “Mitacs is thrilled to partner with ICPK to provide aspiring entrepreneurs with the support they need to turn their research into successful businesses. We believe our eAccelerate program will help students build the skills and experience they need to succeed as entrepreneurs.”

As part of the eAccelerate program, the Innovation Cluster will provide coaching and mentoring services to help students and postdoctoral entrepreneurs bring their ideas to fruition. The coaching and mentoring services will be tailored to meet the unique needs of each student entrepreneur. The Innovation Cluster’s team of experienced business mentors and experts will work closely with students to help them develop their business plans, refine their value proposition, and identify potential customers and markets for their products or services. 

In addition to one-on-one coaching and mentoring, the Innovation Cluster will provide access to a wide range of resources and services to help students succeed. These include access to workshops and training programs, networking opportunities, and incubator facilities equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and infrastructure.

By offering these services, the Innovation Cluster aims to empower student and postdoctoral entrepreneurs to turn their research and innovation into successful businesses that  will contribute to the growth of the local economy. Through its partnership with Mitacs, the Innovation Cluster is helping to bridge the gap between academia and industry by fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation in the Peterborough and Kawartha Lakes region.

Trent University is a key partner of the Innovation Cluster Peterborough and the Kawartha Lakes. Through this partnership, Trent University students and postdoctoral entrepreneurs will have access to the resources and services provided by the ICPK. This collaboration between Trent University and the ICPK is a testament to the commitment of both institutions to promoting entrepreneurship and innovation in the Peterborough and Kawartha Lakes region. Trent University is a natural fit for the partnership between ICPK and Mitacs, and it will work collaboratively to include students and postdoctoral entrepreneurs from Trent.

Nicole Stephenson, Interim CEO of Innovation Cluster, added, “We are excited to partner with Mitacs and Trent University to offer the eAccelerate program to our clients. By providing students and postdoctoral entrepreneurs with access to resources, mentorship, and funding, we hope to help them bring their ideas to fruition and contribute to the growth of our local economy.”

The partnership between ICPK, Trent University, and Mitacs will give aspiring entrepreneurs the resources they need to succeed. Dr. Cathy Bruce, vice-president of Research and Innovation at Trent University, said, “The eAccelerate Program builds on our good work in the Entrepreneurship and Social Innovation Centre at Trent, with Mitacs and the Innovation Cluster. This program will provide our students with additional supports and resources to propel their research experiences toward viable business opportunities.”

To launch eAccelerate, the Innovation Cluster and Mitacs will co-host an information session on Tuesday, March 21, 2023, from 12 to 1 pm at the Innovation Cluster, located in the VentureNorth Building. The session aims to provide information about the Mitacs program and its benefits. 

Additionally, an open house event will be held from 1 to 3 pm at the Innovation Cluster on the same day to celebrate the Mitacs, Trent University and ICPK partnership. The open house event will also be a social and networking opportunity for all students, faculty, partners and existing clients. 

Students and postdoctoral candidates interested in participating in the eAccelerate program, can verify their eligibility by contacting the Innovation Cluster (admin@innovationcluster.ca). The Innovation Cluster can support candidates in submitting an application to the program. 

For more information about the eAccelerate program visit https://www.mitacs.ca/en

About the Innovation Cluster 

Innovation Cluster Peterborough and the Kawarthas (ICPK) is a non-profit organization that supports entrepreneurs to launch, grow and scale their businesses. They help entrepreneurs reach their business goals so that our local community, job market, and economy continue to grow.

The ICPK supports startup businesses by providing dynamic programming, mentorship, workshops, and networking opportunities to entrepreneurs through three core programs.

STARTUP INCUBATOR – a full-service Startup Incubator Program

STARTup Visa Program Canada – an Immigrant Entrepreneurship Program

FastStart – Student Entrepreneurship Program

For more information on the ICPK, visit Innovation Cluster at www.innovationcluster.ca 

Core Funding is provided by The City of Peterborough, Trent University, Fleming College, Peterborough Region Angel Network, The City of Kawartha Lakes, OMAFRA, Feddev Ontario, and Franklin Empire. 

About Mitacs

Mitacs: Inspiring innovation and driving creative solutions

Mitacs empowers Canadian innovation through effective partnerships that deliver solutions to our most pressing problems. For over 20 years, Mitacs has assisted organizations in reaching their goals, has funded cutting-edge innovation, and has created job opportunities for students and postdocs. We are committed to driving economic growth and productivity and to creating meaningful change to improve quality of life for all Canadians.

Our mission is to build a world-class, diverse community of innovators through our collaborative model, attracting and deploying top talent to industry, and matching need with expertise to create ambitious solutions to real-world challenges.

We believe that increasing Canada’s productivity and prosperity will be driven by successful innovation and we’re passionate about developing the next generation of researchers who will work to fuel Canada’s knowledge-based economy.

Discover us at mitacs.ca

About Trent University

One of Canada’s top universities, Trent University was founded on the ideal of interactive learning that’s personal, purposeful and transformative. Consistently recognized nationally for leadership in teaching, research and student satisfaction, Trent attracts excellent students from across the country and around the world. Here, undergraduate and graduate students connect and collaborate with faculty, staff and their peers through diverse communities that span residential colleges, classrooms, disciplines, hands-on research, co-curricular and community-based activities. Across all disciplines, Trent brings critical, integrative thinking to life every day. Today, Trent’s unique approach to personal development through supportive, collaborative community engagement is in more demand than ever. Students lead the way by co-creating experiences rooted in dialogue, diverse perspectives and collaboration. In a learning environment that builds life-long passion for inclusion, leadership and social change, Trent’s students, alumni, faculty and staff are engaged global citizens who are catalysts in developing sustainable solutions to complex issues. Trent’s Peterborough campus boasts award-winning architecture in a breathtaking natural setting on the banks of the Otonabee River, just 90 minutes from downtown Toronto, while Trent University Durham Greater Toronto Area, delivers a distinct mix of programming in the east GTA.

Media Contact

Innovation Cluster

Nicole Stephenson

Interim CEO

nstephenson@innovationcluster.ca

Innovation Cluster Peterborough and the Kawarthas partners with Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board (KPRDSB) to launch the LEAPZONE @KPRDSB Entrepreneurship Program for secondary students

March 1, 2023 – PETERBOROUGH, ON – Innovation Cluster Peterborough and the Kawarthas (“ICPK”) has announced a new partnership with Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board (“KPRDSB”) to foster entrepreneurial skills among students. The partnership has led to the creation of the LEAPZONE @KPRDSB Entrepreneurship Club as part of the KPR Pathways Initiative.

The LEAPZONE @KPRDSB Entrepreneurship Program is designed to allow students to develop entrepreneurial skills and encourage innovation and creativity. The club will offer four sessions on Ideation and Creativity, Business Fundamentals, Marketing, and Brand Development. The program is open to Grades 9-12 students and equips them with the skills to plan, fund, start, and run a business or social enterprise.

At the end of the program, selected students from the KPRDSB will have the opportunity to represent their school board at an Ontario-Wide Showcase and Networking Event. This event brings together students from different school boards across Ontario who have participated in similar entrepreneurship programs. The event provides an excellent opportunity for students to learn from each other, share ideas, and expand their networks.

“We are thrilled to bring this opportunity to students and introduce them to the exciting world of innovation and entrepreneurship! This learning experience will help students build foundational knowledge and skills and empower them to leap out of their comfort zone and turn their ideas into something great,” said Charlotte Filip, Principal of Teaching and Learning K-12: Secondary Focus.

The Innovation Cluster, a non-profit organization, promotes entrepreneurship in the Peterborough and Kawartha Lakes region. Its mission is to empower and accelerate the growth of innovative businesses and entrepreneurs by offering them access to funding, resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities.

The Cluster recognizes entrepreneurship’s pivotal role in driving economic growth and development, creating job opportunities, and promoting social and environmental sustainability. As such, the organization provides a broad range of programs and services tailored to support entrepreneurs at all stages of their journey, including high school, college, and university students looking to advance their entrepreneurial endeavors.

The Innovation Cluster’s commitment to promoting entrepreneurship among students is evident through its many programs and services, including collaborating with partners such as Junior Achievement and Summer Company Program, which offer valuable resources to help young entrepreneurs turn their innovative ideas into thriving businesses.

Lindsey Irwin, Senior Innovation Specialist & FastStart Program Manager at the Innovation Cluster, expressed her excitement: “I’m confident the new Leap Zone Program will have a positive impact on young entrepreneurs from KPRDSB. These students will discover the resources available to them to start businesses in our region, and our sessions will help them build the entrepreneurial skills they need for success in the years to come. It’s exciting to think that these students will represent our region’s next generation of entrepreneurs, and I can’t wait to see what businesses they will launch in the future with our support.”

For more information on the LEAPZONE @KPRDSB Entrepreneurship Club, interested parties can visit KPRDSB’s official website: 

https://www.kprschools.ca/en/news/leap-zone-student-entrepreneurship-kprdsb.aspx

About the Innovation Cluster 

Innovation Cluster Peterborough and the Kawarthas (ICPK) is a non-profit organization that supports entrepreneurs to launch, grow and scale their businesses. They help entrepreneurs reach their business goals so that our local community, job market, and economy continue to grow.

The ICPK supports startup businesses by providing dynamic programming, mentorship, workshops, and networking opportunities to entrepreneurs through three core programs.

STARTUP INCUBATOR – a full-service Startup Incubator Program

STARTup Visa Program Canada – an Immigrant Entrepreneurship Program

FastStart – Student Entrepreneurship Program

For more information on the ICPK, visit Innovation Cluster at www.innovationcluster.ca 

Core Funding is provided by The City of Peterborough, Trent University, Fleming College, Peterborough Region Angel Network, The City of Kawartha Lakes, OMAFRA, Feddev Ontario, and Franklin Empire. 

Media Contact

Innovation Cluster

Nicole Stephenson

Interim CEO

nstephenson@innovationcluster.ca 

Launch Kawartha opens its doors to the new Innovators and Entrepreneurs in Kawartha Lakes and partners with the Innovation Cluster Peterborough and the Kawarthas to provide multiple streams of innovation and incubation programming for the region.

(Vince Killen, KLCFDC and Launch Kawartha Executive Director, provides opening remarks on Friday)

February 14, 2023 – LINDSAY, ON – The Launch Kawartha Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre, a hub of creativity and inspiration, was officially opened to the public on February 10th during a grand opening ceremony attended by many. The centre is designed and anchored by the Kawartha Lakes Community Futures Development Corp. (“KLCFDC”) and funded internally by the Kawartha Lakes Business Community Development Corp. (“KLBCDC”). It will provide a space for up to 20 entrepreneurs each year to incubate their businesses alongside the Innovation Cluster Peterborough and the Kawarthas (“ICPK”). The City of Kawartha Lakes is also proud to support these organizations by providing funding to the ICPK. This will aid in delivering programs and services at Launch Kawartha and fostering the development of new, innovative technologies, products, services, and job opportunities in the region.

(Pictured above from left to right: Mayor Doug Elmslie, City of Kawartha Lakes; MP Jamie Schmale; Executive Director Vince Killen, KLCFDC and Launch Kawartha; Mark Torrey, KLCFDC Board Chair: Nicole Stephenson, Interim CEO Innovation Cluster Peterborough and The Kawarthas)

In his opening remarks, Vince Killen, Executive Director of KLCFDC and Launch Kawartha, announced that the new facility is set to host approximately 40 events over the coming year. Recent events hosted at the centre include the induction announcements for the Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame and Ministerial roundtables aimed at supporting women entrepreneurs.

Nicole Stephenson, the interim CEO of the Innovation Cluster Peterborough and the Kawarthas, stated, “we are deeply committed to fostering a supportive and collaborative environment for entrepreneurs in the City of Kawartha Lakes. That’s why we are thrilled to sponsor Launch Kawartha and relentlessly work towards our mission of empowering the next generation of business leaders in our community.”

Exciting upcoming events were also announced, including the Intellectual Property “Pizza’s and Patents,” a fun and interactive workshop, and innovation leadership training programs. Additionally, multiple “Fireside Chats” with industry experts are planned, and virtual viewing webinars and events are being developed for the public.

For aspiring entrepreneurs or those in the early stages of developing their business model, the Launch Kawartha Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre offers a FREE collaborative workspace to help grow your business and connect with in-house experts in various business sectors. To learn more, visit: www.launchkawartha.ca.

About KLCFDC

The KLCFDC is an innovation focused, entrepreneurial and economic development ecosystem organization that provides funding, business advisory, and support, incubation, and acceleration services to entrepreneurs. We are a key economic development and strategic partner to multiple NFP and NGO’s in the City of Kawartha Lakes and beyond. The KLCFDC and KLBCDC, along with multiple strategic partners, including the Innovation Cluster (Kawartha Lakes Cube), are headquartered at Launch Kawartha, in Lindsay, ON.

Located west of Peterborough and only 75 km from Durham Region and the GTA, Launch Kawartha is eastern Ontario’s newest hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.

For more information about our centre, visit Launch Kawartha

For more information on the KLCFDC, visit their website here.

About ICPK

Innovation Cluster Peterborough and the Kawarthas (ICPK) is a non-profit organization that supports entrepreneurs to launch, grow and scale their businesses. They help entrepreneurs reach their business goals so that our local community, job market, and economy continue to grow.

The ICPK supports startup businesses by providing dynamic programming, mentorship, workshops, and networking opportunities to entrepreneurs through three core programs.

STARTUP INCUBATOR – a full-service Startup Incubator Program

STARTup Visa Program Canada – an Immigrant Entrepreneurship Program

FASTSTART – Student Entrepreneurship Program

For more information on the ICPK, visit Innovation Cluster

City of Kawartha Lakes

The City of Kawartha Lakes is Southern Ontario’s largest geographic municipality and home to vibrant downtowns, abundant green spaces and diverse opportunities. Kawartha Lakes collaborates with the Kawartha Lakes CFDC, Innovation Cluster and regional partners to support economic vibrancy in the community. Kawartha Lakes is home to the Kawartha Lakes Small Business and Entrepreneurship Centre, a program that guides entrepreneurs through the process of planning, starting and growing a small business.

For more information, visit www.kawarthalakes.ca

For more information on the Kawartha Lakes Small Business and Entrepreneurship Centre, visit www.klsbec.ca

Media Contact

Vince Killen, Executive Director, KLCFDC, KLBCDC, and Launch Kawartha

vkillen@klcfdc.com

Innovation Cluster Peterborough and the Kawarthas Appoints Interim CEO

The Board has appointed current Chairperson Nicole Stephenson, J.D., LL.M., as interim CEO to provide seamless leadership continuity and operational management of the Organization. At the same time, the Board continues to conduct the CEO search. Stephenson’s appointment follows Michael Skinner and John Gillis’ decision to resign after many years of outstanding leadership and contribution to the community.

“As part of the Board’s commitment to ensure the Organization maintains delivery of the level and quality of service the entrepreneurship community needs, it has decided to appoint an interim CEO,” shared Bill Davie, Vice Chair of the Innovation Cluster. 

Ms. Stephenson, who has been a Board Director since May 2019, was appointed Executive Chair in May 2021. She has also served as a knowledge partner of the Innovation Cluster since 2017. She will serve as interim CEO for up to six months, with Bill Davie, current Vice Chair of the Innovation Cluster, stepping in to serve as Acting Chairperson of the Board for the same period of time.  

Nicole Stephenson, Executive Chair of the Innovation Cluster, said, “We’re fortunate to have an experienced and highly capable operational team with which the Board will invest and partner. I look forward to working closely with them as we recruit a new Chief Executive Officer.”

Ms. Stephenson is the founder of Stephenson Law Group™ with over 15 years of Canadian capital markets experience. She regularly advises entrepreneurs and business leaders on emerging growth opportunities, corporate finance and mergers and acquisitions. Before founding Stephenson Law Group™, Nicole spent over twelve years at the Ontario Securities Commission, a Canadian stock exchange, and in private practice at a corporate and securities law boutique.

About the Innovation Cluster 

The Innovation Cluster is a not-for-profit organization that drives innovative, determined entrepreneurs in the formation and growth of their technology-based companies. Supporting four key sectors, agtech, digital, healthcare, and with a strong focus on cleantech, the Innovation Cluster’s dynamic programming and mentoring ensures start-ups find their best path to market. 

Core funding is provided by The City of Peterborough, Trent University, Fleming College, Peterborough Region Angel Network, The City of Kawartha Lakes, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food & Rural Affairs (OMAFRA), Franklin Empire and the Federal Ontario Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario).

Visit www.innovationcluster.ca. 

Media Contact

Christine Crandell, Board of Directors Member

Innovation Cluster Peterborough and the Kawarthas

christine.crandell@newbizs.com

+1 415.309.7017

FriendlilySHOP.com launches an innovative e-commerce platform to shop local and support charities.

FriendLilyShop is a new e-commerce platform that makes it easier for consumers to shop local and contribute to charities.

FriendLilyShop founder and CEO, Jim Riches, has worked with numerous charities over his years of service, including The Kidney Foundation, and has first-hand experience of the amazing work charities do. He is passionate about helping others in need and believes that the platform will make it easier for people to contribute to charitable causes such as Kids Against Hunger, Peterborough Humane Society, and numerous others.

“We wanted to create an effortless way for people to give back and support their local communities,” says Jim. 

The design of the website is simple and straightforward, making it easy for users to search for their favourite local products. With 10% of all proceeds going to charity, FriendLilyShop provides a straightforward way to contribute, with no extra effort required from the consumer. By purchasing through the platform, shoppers can make meaningful donations to charities and help local businesses grow.

“Jim began working with the Innovation Cluster at a time when charities across Canada were facing immense financial strain due to the COVID-19 crisis. The FriendLilyShop model rests on the principle that consumers, local businesses, and charities can all benefit from working together,” stated Michael Skinner, the Innovation Cluster’s CEO.

The e-commerce platform offers a wide range of products from small business owners and artisans as well as video stories from businesses, charities, and communities. Consumers can learn more about the individuals behind these small businesses and charities, and how their purchases are making a real impact on the lives of those they support.

The website is now live and available for shoppers to begin making meaningful purchases. With its wide range of products and stories, FriendLilyShop is connecting buyers, local businesses, and charities in purposeful ways.

To find out more about FriendLilyShop, visit www.friendlilyshop.com

About the Innovation Cluster 

The Innovation Cluster is a not-for-profit organization that drives innovative, determined entrepreneurs in the formation and growth of their technology-based companies. Supporting four key sectors, agtech, digital, healthcare, and with a strong focus on cleantech, the Innovation Cluster’s dynamic programming and mentoring ensures start-ups find their best path to market. 

Core funding is provided by The City of Peterborough, Trent University, Fleming College, Peterborough Region Angel Network, The City of Kawartha Lakes, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food & Rural Affairs (OMAFRA), Franklin Empire and the Federal Ontario Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario).

Visit www.innovationcluster.ca. 

Media Contact

Michael Skinner, CEO

Innovation Cluster Peterborough and the Kawarthas

mskinner@innovationcluster.ca

Jim Riches, Founder

Friendlilyshop.com

jim.riches@sympatico.ca

Innovation Cluster Seeks New CEO as Michael Skinner and John Gillis Prepare for Departure

The Board of Directors is accepting online applications until Friday, November 18th.

November 8, 2022 – PETERBOROUGH, ON – Innovation Cluster Peterborough and the Kawarthas (“Innovation Cluster” or the “Organization”) has publicly announced that they are seeking a new Chief Executive Officer. The current CEO Michael Skinner and President John Gillis have resigned and will depart the Organization at the end of the year. 

Mr. Skinner and Mr. Gillis stated, “The Innovation Cluster has always been a labour of love and our passion for supporting business growth and entrepreneurship in our community will not end with our departure. We look forward to staying connected with the people who have made our time at the Innovation Cluster unforgettable.  We are excited to see the introduction of fresh ideas to the Organization under new leadership.” 

Mr. Skinner joined the Innovation Cluster’s Board of Directors in 2012 as a serial entrepreneur, Business Citizen of the Year, and previous founder and CEO of Operitel which was acquired by OpenText in 2011. In 2016, Mr. Skinner became the CEO of the Innovation Cluster and under his leadership, the Organization expanded to its 10,000 sq foot location in downtown Peterborough to include incubation and accelerator services. 

Mr. Gillis joined the Innovation Cluster in 2017 as a business leader within the Canadian cleantech, water, wastewater, and plant automation (IOT) industries. He introduced an H2O Makerspace to the Organization giving clients access to over 30 pieces of sophisticated water testing equipment.

Over the last five years, the two veteran entrepreneurs and business leaders have led the Innovation Cluster to create an economic impact of $54 million, create nearly 900 jobs, and support more than 300 companies to launch, grow, and scale. Mr. Skinner and Mr. Gillis will continue working together after their departure and will be announcing the launch of an exciting, new venture in the new year.

Nicole Stephenson, Chair of the Board of Directors stated, “Both Michael and John have been integral to the growth of the Innovation Cluster over the past few years, especially through the unprecedented challenges of the recent global pandemic.  On behalf of the entire Board, I thank Michael and John for their immense contributions and wish them both continued success in their future endeavours.”

The Board of Directors is now accepting applications for the role of Chief Executive Officer; 

The successful candidate will: 

• Lead the Organization’s strategic vision as a vibrant entrepreneurship ecosystem, and future pillar of the Peterborough – Kawartha economy.
• Be responsible for the operational and strategic leadership of the Innovation Cluster.
• Have a robust awareness and understanding of the complexities and experiences driving entrepreneurial success.
• Be skilled in complex project management, executive-level communication, stakeholder cultivation, and partnership building.
• Have a minimum of 10 years overall experience with an impeccable track record as a founder, leading innovation, promoting organizations, or achieving successful exit strategies.

To review the complete position details and to apply, refer to the full job posting. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply online no later than Friday, November 18th.  

About the Innovation Cluster 

The Innovation Cluster is a not-for-profit organization that drives innovative, determined entrepreneurs in the formation and growth of their technology-based companies. Supporting four key sectors, agtech, digital, healthcare, and with a strong focus on cleantech, the Innovation Cluster’s dynamic programming and mentoring ensures start-ups find their best path to market. 

Core funding is provided by The City of Peterborough, Trent University, Fleming College, Peterborough Region Angel Network, The City of Kawartha Lakes, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food & Rural Affairs (OMAFRA), Franklin Empire and the Federal Ontario Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario).

Visit www.innovationcluster.ca.

Media Contact

Michael Skinner, CEO

Innovation Cluster Peterborough and the Kawarthas

mskinner@innovationcluster.ca 

Applications Now Open for Pitch IT! Student Entrepreneurial Competition

Trent and Fleming students will compete for the title of ‘Best Pitch’ and a $2,000 prize

October 6, 2022 – PETERBOROUGH, ON – Innovation Cluster Peterborough and the Kawarthas (“Innovation Cluster”) is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the Pitch IT! student entrepreneurial competition that will take place on November 9th. 

Hosted by the Innovation Cluster’s student entrepreneurship program FastStart, Pitch IT! provides the opportunity for Trent University and Fleming College students with an entrepreneurial spirit to pitch their innovative business ideas to a panel of influential investors and business leaders in our community for a chance to win a $2,000 prize (1st place), a $1,000 prize (2nd place), and business exposure across the region.

Pitch IT! provides a tremendous opportunity for not only the winner and runner-up but all participants. Prior to the competition, all students participate in a workshop to develop and improve their business pitch skills. In addition, all participants get the chance to network with business professionals, investors, and other entrepreneurs.

FastStart Program Manager Lindsey Irwin stated, “Pitch IT! is an invaluable experience for post-secondary students that have entrepreneurial passion and drive. We are looking for students who are truly innovative with their ideas, and have a desire to learn and grow into successful entrepreneurs in our community.” 

APPLY NOW! https://www.innovationcluster.ca/programs/pitch-it/ 

Applications close on October 23rd at 11:59 p.m. Accepted applicants will be announced on October 26th.

About the Innovation Cluster 

The Innovation Cluster is a not-for-profit organization that drives innovative, determined entrepreneurs in the formation and growth of their technology-based companies. Supporting four key sectors, agtech, digital, healthcare and with a strong focus on cleantech, the Innovation Cluster’s dynamic programming and mentoring ensures start-ups find their best path to market. 

Core Funding is provided by The City of Peterborough, Trent University, Fleming College, Peterborough Region Angel Network, The City of Kawartha Lakes, OMAFRA, Feddev Ontario, Ontario Trillium Foundation and Peterborough Utilities Group. Visit www.innovationcluster.ca 

Media Contact

Innovation Cluster

Lindsey Irwin

Senior Innovation Specialist & FastStart Program Manager

lirwin@innovationcluster.ca