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.
How we Help:
- Mentorship from industry experts
- Brilliant Catalyst connects innovators and entrepreneurs with experienced professionals who offer tailored guidance in areas such as financial management, leadership, and product development. With 800+ entrepreneurs mentored and 20+ countries impacted, mentors help refine business models and expand networks by making introductions to key industry contacts and 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. With $500K in funding raised and 200+ companies incubated, these competitions offer valuable feedback, networking opportunities, and financial support, allowing participants to scale their startups and turn ideas into reality..
- 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.
Our Programs
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Brilliant Incubator Program
This program is for students, recent alumni, and faculty who have an idea and want to turn it into a viable business. It's delivered in a hybrid format, offering self-paced or synchronous learning options. The Brilliant Incubator features workshops, mentorship, pitch competitions, and funding opportunities.
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.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE EXPERIENCE VENTURES PROGRAM -
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. Driven by Leadership, Proven by Founders
“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, Executive Director, Innovation and Entrepreneurship,
Brilliant Catalyst, Ontario Tech University
"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.
How You Can Reach Us
Brilliant Catalyst
ERC 2100, Ontario Tech University
ontariotechbrilliant.ca
brilliant@ontariotechu.ca
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