Working with the experts in the Entrepreneurial Practice and Innovation Centre (EPICentre) saved his company time and money, says Matt Lapain, co-founder of MLVC Technologies.

The start-up is developing ways to estimate quantities of materials for roofing projects. Its ground-level approach is safer and quicker for construction companies, said Lapain, a 2014 graduate of the UWindsor mechanical engineering program currently pursuing master’s studies.

“The support we got helped to get us in the right direction much quicker,” he said, citing assistance in incorporating and identifying funding sources. “EPICentre has been very instrumental in helping us grow our company.”

He spoke Tuesday as the centre formally opened its new business accelerator on the second floor of the Joyce Entrepreneurship Centre.

Ontario minister of research and innovation, Reza Moridi, was on hand to announce a $1.1 million investment in the centre’s programming through the provincial campus-linked accelerators program.

“You have a track record of engaging young people in cutting-edge research,” he said. “We want them to translate those innovations into products and services we can sell around the world.”

UWindsor president Alan Wildeman welcomed the funding support.

“The EPICentre Campus Led Accelerator is creating a multi-disciplinary hub to support entrepreneurship and innovation, including participation of entrepreneurial mentors,” he said. “We are grateful for provincial and donor support towards helping create a centre that greatly enhances the capacity of the University to meet their aspirations and supports our shared desire to see education as a pathway to job creation.”

The centre followed up the morning event with a reception to introduce the space to the entire campus community. Learn more about EPICentre programs on its website, www.epicentreuwindsor.ca.