Spark Commercialization and Innovation Centre today has announced their new Thrive Program, which offers a hybrid of incubation and acceleration services for startups. Thrive is a four month accelerator program with the option of continuing for up to 24 consecutive months. Companies accepted into Thrive will be offered co-location at The Loft – Spark Centre’s collaborative ecosystem in Durham Region. Thrive will also offer significant advisory and business support services to achieve a faster market entry.
Braden Kemp, Spark Centre’s Manager of Business Acceleration Services, is leading the Thrive Program. “Thrive is a great opportunity for entrepreneurs to access critical support and resources that are rarely found outside well-known startup ecosystems like Toronto, Waterloo, Silicon Valley and New York,” says Kemp. “It will allow Spark and our partners to focus significant efforts on up to ten rapidly scalable businesses, bringing incredible technologies to market right here in Durham Region.”
In addition to a $1000 grant for initial business set-up, the companies in Thrive will be offered free support from Spark Centre including:
– Immediate immersion in an intensive program focused on rapid market entry
– Advisory Services in the areas of Leadership, Marketing, Sales, Legal and Finance
– Personnel support provided for Bookkeeping, Administration, HR, Public Relations, Creative Design and Government Grants
– Free office space
– Discounted professional services from the Spark Expert Network
Ultimately, Thrive will focus on increasing revenues and private investment in startups locally, as well as driving innovative job creation in Durham Region.
Those interested in learning more, or joining the program can apply online at: http://sparkcentre-org.stackstaging.com/thrive-program.
Media Contact:
Amanda Reynolds
Public Relations and Media Manager
[email protected]
905-432-3999 x 122
