Brilliant Catalyst at Ontario Tech University
Who We Are
Brilliant Catalyst is Ontario Tech University’s start-up incubator and experiential learning hub. It supports students, alumni, faculty and entrepreneurs in turning innovative ideas into successful businesses through mentorship, funding and hands-on learning opportunities.
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.
- Brilliant Catalyst connects participants with experienced professionals who offer tailored guidance in areas like financial
- 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.
- Brilliant Catalyst organizes pitch competitions where entrepreneurs present their business ideas to investors for
- Experiential learning for Ontario Tech students
- Brilliant Catalyst provides Ontario Tech students with real-world entrepreneurial experiences through programs such as
Experience Ventures. Students work on practical challenges, develop key business skills and expand their professional
networks, preparing them for future business ventures.
- Brilliant Catalyst provides Ontario Tech students with real-world entrepreneurial experiences through programs such as
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, powered by the Hunter Hub for Entrepreneurial Thinking.
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 supports 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?
Ontario Tech University’s start-up incubator and experiential learning hub. It supports students, alumni, faculty and entrepreneurs.
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Who can apply to Brilliant Catalyst programs?
Each program has its own eligibility criteria, but most are designed for Ontario Tech students, alumni, and faculty, with select opportunities available to community members.
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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?
Many of our programs are free. Sometimes, we will even pay you!
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Can international students apply to the programs?
Eligibility varies by program; however, most are open to international students. The only exception is programs related to Experience Ventures, which are limited to domestic students.
Contact Information:
Brilliant Catalyst
ERC 2100, Ontario Tech University
ontariotechbrilliant.ca
brilliant@ontariotechu.ca
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