Province and UPEI introduce business incubator program
Supporting entrepreneurship and encouraging business development are the key objectives of a new LaunchPad business incubator at the University of Prince Edward Island.
LaunchPad at UPEI provides a professional setting for students to start a business. In addition to the use of a furnished office space and access to communications technologies, the students benefit from the services of professional mentors at the university's School of Business.
'The introduction of the LaunchPad program to UPEI means that full-time student entrepreneurs will now have access to the infrastructure and support needed to start a business while completing their business degree,' said Hon. Allan Campbell, Minister of Innovation and Advanced Learning. 'My department is committed to partnering with the business community and post-secondary institutions in an effort to strengthen our business community and labour force.'
'The University of Prince Edward Island is pleased to partner with the Province and Innovation PEI to promote entrepreneurship,' said Dr Roberta MacDonald, dean of the School of Business. 'The LaunchPad program complements the philosophy of the University and the School of Business. We believe in inspiring excellence in our students by working together so students can pursue their dreams and realize their ambitions in life and in business.'
Two students have already been accepted as the LaunchPad participants for the 2010 year. They are Nicholas MacLeod and Erica Wagner. MacLeod's Future Web Design provides clients with a complete package of internet options such as web development, e-commerce and IT technical support.
'Business is continually evolving with the advancement in technology and the capabilities of the internet,' said MacLeod. 'My clients' needs range from a basic website to effectively promote their business, up to a site with e-commerce capability.'
Erica Wagner focuses on Social Media Marketing as a business tool and Personal Branding. Services range from logo creation to an affordable, seamless and integrated marketing campaign for small businesses on PEI.
LaunchPad business incubator facilities are also available at Holland College, the Atlantic Technology Centre in Charlottetown, and the Holman Building in Summerside.
For more information, visit www.LaunchpadPEI.ca or contact Joan Fleming at the UPEI School of Business at jofleming@upei.ca about LaunchPad at UPEI.
