Communitech and the Accelerator Centre Team up to Launch new Accelerator
Program
Formal agreement combines programs to better serve Waterloo Region technology companies
WATERLOO, Nov. 16 /CNW/ - Waterloo Region, already home to some 300 startup companies, just became an even better place to start a business. Early-stage companies now have access to seamless support services from both the Accelerator Centre (AC) in the Research + Technology Park and Communitech, which supports Waterloo Region's tech cluster of more than 700 tech companies.
"Essentially we're creating one-stop shopping for early-stage companies looking for help to take their business to the next level," said Iain Klugman, President and CEO of Communitech.
Under the new agreement, start-ups housed at both The Accelerator Centre and The Communitech Hub will have access to the same Accelerator Program - supported equally, regardless of where their company is located. Because of the creation of The Communitech Hub in downtown Kitchener, there is increased office space available, and more manpower to support expanded initiatives.
"Waterloo Region has proven to be fertile ground for technology companies, and we've had the pleasure over the last five years of growing and maturing start-ups representing a wide range of industries from health care and medical devices, to wireless mobility, to robotics. Now we are effectively doubling our capacity to serve early stage technology companies here in the Region, allowing these companies to realize their potential and move to market faster," said Tim Jackson, CEO of the Accelerator Centre.
Key Features of the Accelerator Program include:
- Office facilities;
- Coaching and mentoring;
- Education;
- Connections to capital;
- Networking;
- R&D support and outreach;
- Talent recruitment;
- Technology transfer assistance;
- Commercialization expertise.
The Accelerator Centre (AC), located within Waterloo's Research + Technology Park, is an award-winning facility dedicated to developing and commercializing technology start-ups. Since opening its doors to clients in May 2006, the AC has graduated seven companies into the marketplace, and is home to 20+ other start-ups at various stages of maturity.
The Communitech Hub, located in Kitchener's historic Tannery Building, has 30,000 square feet of space available to support the growth and commercialization of Ontario's digital media and mobile computing industry. Start-ups located at The Hub participate in the same programs as those located at the AC, including coaching from Communitech's experienced team of Executives-in-Residence.
"The collaboration between the Accelerator Centre and Communitech benefits all our clients and draws on the best expertise the Region has to offer," said Kevin Tuer, VP Digital Media, Communitech.
Entrepreneurs and early stage companies interested in becoming tenants of the Accelerator Centre or The Communitech Hub can apply online at either organization's website.
About the Waterloo Region Innovation Ecosystem
Communitech and the Accelerator Centre support entrepreneurs and early-stage technology companies in their growth, development and success. They provide business coaching services - drawn from a team of experienced technology company founders, CEOs and entrepreneurs, and forge connections to capital, talent and networks. Waterloo Region is Ontario's fastest-growing tech ecosystem, where business can begin and successful technology companies can flourish.
For further information: For further information:
Media Contact:
Shelley Grandy, Sr. PR Advisor, Communitech, [email protected]
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