Press releases

Launch of LevelUP: A Game-Changer for Entrepreneurs in Peterborough and the Kawarthas

PETERBOROUGH, ON – January 16, 2024 – In an ambitious move to redefine the future of innovation in Peterborough and the Kawarthas, the Innovation Cluster proudly announces the launch of its latest program, LevelUP. This groundbreaking initiative will ignite the regional economy and foster entrepreneurial success.

LevelUP, a fully-funded, full-service startup accelerator program, is tailored for mature entrepreneurs and regional innovators. Launching in February 2024, the program promises to transform startups into thriving businesses and streamline the current incubation pace at the Innovation Cluster. With a focus on sectors such as Agtech, Healthcare, Cleantech, Social Innovation, and Digital Technology, LevelUP is poised to make a significant impact.

Key Offerings and Impact

LevelUP is an accelerator program and a comprehensive ecosystem offering mentorship, workshops, networking opportunities, and access to funding. The program operates in three cohorts annually, each hosting ten companies over a 12-week journey. This structured approach, built on pillars of knowledge transfer, networking, tracking, and funding preparation, ensures startups are robustly prepared for the challenges of the entrepreneurial world. The aim is to prepare entrepreneurs to pitch for investment and compete for prizes up to $10,000 per cohort. 

Regional Economic Growth and Innovation

The Innovation Cluster’s commitment to driving $10M in economic value is significantly bolstered by LevelUP. This initiative aligns with the Cluster’s strategic plan to make Peterborough and the Kawartha Lakes an innovation hub. By nurturing and retaining companies in the region, LevelUP will contribute to job creation and economic development, positioning our region as a beacon of entrepreneurial growth and innovation.

Collaboration and Community Engagement

LevelUP collaborates with regional stakeholders like the City of Peterborough, Trent University, Fleming College, and business and technology experts. This synergy ensures that the program nurtures individual startups and contributes to our region’s broader economic and social fabric.

Executive Director’s Vision

Camila Duarte, Executive Director of the Innovation Cluster, shares her enthusiasm: “The launch of LevelUP is a milestone for our region. This program is not just about nurturing startups, it’s about creating a sustainable regional ecosystem where innovation, collaboration, and economic growth flourish together. We’re committed to transforming Peterborough and the Kawarthas into a vibrant hub where entrepreneurs can thrive and make a lasting impact. This program has been missing in the organization for the last three years, and now we are finally ready to streamline many of the services that support startups. “

Invitation to Entrepreneurs

We invite innovation-driven entrepreneurs with a Minimum Viable Product to apply for LevelUP. This is your chance to be part of a transformative journey and elevate your startup to unprecedented heights.

Join the Movement

Embrace this opportunity to transform your startup and our region. Apply now for LevelUP and be part of an extraordinary journey that redefines the future.

For further information and application details, please visit our website: https://innovationcluster.ca/programs/startup-accelerator/

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

Student Entrepreneurship Program

LAUNCH Kawartha – The Innovation Cluster operates across multiple locations, one of which includes LAUNCH Kawartha, a dedicated space for incubation programming situated in Lindsay, Kawartha Lakes. For additional information, please visit 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

Camila Duarte

Executive Director, Innovation Cluster

cduarte@innovationcluster.ca

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