Brilliant Catalyst at Ontario Tech University
Who We Are
Brilliant Catalyst is Ontario Tech University’s incubator and entrepreneurial hub. Brilliant Catalyst supports students, alumni, faculty and entrepreneurs, helping them turn innovative ideas into successful businesses through mentorship, funding and experiential learning.
Key Highlights:
- Mentorship from industry experts
- Brilliant Catalyst connects participants with experienced professionals who offer tailored guidance in areas like financial management, leadership and product development. Mentors help refine business models and expand networks by introducing entrepreneurs to key industry contacts, fostering potential partnerships and growth opportunities.
- Funding and pitch competitions
- Brilliant Catalyst organizes pitch competitions where entrepreneurs present their business ideas to investors for funding. These competitions offer valuable feedback, networking opportunities and financial support, allowing participants to scale their startups and turn ideas into viable businesses.
- Experiential learning for Ontario Tech students
- Brilliant Catalyst provides Ontario Tech students with real-world entrepreneurial experiences through programs like Experience Ventures. Students work on practical challenges, develop key business skills and expand their professional networks, preparing them for future business ventures.
Our Programs
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Brilliant Incubator Program
This program supports students and alumni in transforming ideas into viable businesses. Participants can choose a self-paced program or an 8-week intensive incubator, gaining access to workshops, mentorship and pitch competitions.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE INCUBATOR PROGRAM -
Experience Ventures Program
This program offers students paid experiential learning by working on real-world challenges posed by startups.
APPLY FOR EXPERIENCE VENTURES -
Seize the Moment Program
Targeting underrepresented youth, this program provides in-demand skills in VR/AR, mobile development and advanced manufacturing through workshops and job placements.
Get Involved in Seize the Moment -
Black Entrepreneurship & Skilled Trades (BEST) Program
Designed for Black-identifying youth, this program combines entrepreneurship education with skilled trades training. Participants receive mentorship, access to funding and hands-on learning.
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Startup Visa (SUV) Program
Brilliant Catalyst’s SUV program assists international entrepreneurs in establishing their businesses in Canada, providing mentorship and networking opportunities that facilitate a pathway to permanent residency.
Our Impact. Hear more from members of the Brilliant Catalyst!
Testimonial 1
“By joining the Brilliant Catalyst ecosystem, entrepreneurs will receive funding and access to resources that will enable their companies to thrive and contribute to a better future within and beyond our community.”
— Dr. Osman Hamid, Director, Creativity & Entrepreneurship,
Brilliant Catalyst, Ontario Tech University
Testimonial 2
"Coming from an engineering background, I lacked entrepreneurial skills. By engaging with Brilliant Catalyst, I gained crucial business, marketing and financial skills and merged them with my technical knowledge. This, coupled with a supportive community, helped kickstart my entrepreneurial journey.”
— Nicholas Varas, Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Moduleaf
Get Involved
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the Brilliant Catalyst?
An entrepreneurial hub at Ontario Tech University that supports students and startups.
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Who can apply to Brilliant Catalyst programs?
Students can apply to all of our programming, alumni and faculty can apply to our incubator.
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How do I get involved in a program?
Explore program options and apply through our website.
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Is there a cost to participate?
No, all of our programs are free. Sometimes, we will even pay you!
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Can international students apply to the programs?
Yes, international students can apply to any of our programs except for anything Experience Ventures related.
Contact Information:
Brilliant Catalyst
ERC 2100, Ontario Tech University
ontariotechbrilliant.ca
brilliant@ontariotechu.ca
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