The new space on the second floor of the Joyce Entrepreneurship Centre dedicated to the Entrepreneurship Practice and Innovation Centre (EPICentre) is going to be a nice place to work, says Bob Hedrick, president of CAMufacturing Solutions.

A software developer that specializes in applications for computer aided design and manufacturing, the company will take up residence in the incubator space, a joint project of the Odette School of Business and the Office of Research and Innovation Services.

“It’s great being here because we are working with engineering grad students doing the research to integrate into a commercial product,” Hedrick says. “This location offers privacy and a professional atmosphere, while giving us opportunities to interact with other people with similar interests.”

University officials and partners from local businesses celebrated the completion of the 10,000 square foot space, which includes offices, meeting rooms and a variety of collaborative working environments, during a “sneak peek” reception Tuesday.

UWindsor vice-president for research and innovation, K.W. Michael Siu, told those gathered that he expects to see great things come out of the interaction between entrepreneurs and students.

“They will be rubbing shoulders with their peers, working closely with collaborators,” he said. “This will allow them to live and work right here in Windsor.”

Professor Jim Marsh of the Odette School of Business said his students will love the opportunities afforded them, extending across the border to include access to Michigan markets.

“My vision for this place is to be a node in the ecosystem of incubators in our region,” he said.

Programming for the new space will launch in January, and include workshops, consulting services, guest speakers, funding competitions and startup weekends for budding entrepreneurs. Find more information about EPICentre at www.epicentreuwindsor.ca.