A new program of the Entrepreneurship Practice and Innovation Centre (EPICentre) is designed for startups and early-stage businesses that are ready to take their ideas to market, says director Wen Teoh.

“We understand that this new economy needs innovative thinking to solve problems arising in our community, especially during the pandemic,” she says. “That’s why we’ve decided to launch this program to help startups bring solutions that will help accelerate our economy in the next decade.”

The four-month EPIC Founders Accelerating 2020s Program — funded by FedDev Ontario under the Community Economic Development and Diversification stream — will involve an immersive approach to the Lean Startup methodology. It is aimed at enterprises operating for two years or less to take their ideas for a product and craft it into a business prepared to drive change in the new economy.

Participants will learn key skills and have access to virtual workshops, 3D printers, and other prototyping equipment. Valued at over $7,500, the program is offered free to qualified applicants.

“Today’s economy requires businesses to be agile and find new and creative ways to compete,” says Teoh. “This program strives to give all participants the competitive edge they need in order to succeed.”

Applications are open until Oct. 15. More information is available on the program website.