UVic recently received $1 million from Coast Capital Savings for its Innovation Centre. This generous donation will stimulate the local economy by helping budding entrepreneurs to develop their ideas into investor ready businesses.
The Capital Investment Network (CIN), which supports entrepreneurs in raising capital with various initiatives including its new investor readiness program launched in late 2019 called the Victoria Vipers, is excited to see this funding go to entrepreneurs.
In a recent interview, Jerome Etwaroo, Associate Director of the Coast Capital Savings Innovation Centre mentioned that he was looking forward to the various ways the grant could be used in connection with CIN.
“It would allow for increased access to mentorship to help with entrepreneurial ventures. Relating to CIN this could be Victoria Vipers, membership to CIN, and attending educational/networking events like Unthinkable Thursdays.”
Jerome has worked closely with rising business stars including, Juan Orrego, CEO of Cuboh (shown in the photograph receiving the $1 million cheque on behalf of UVic), and has seen first hand how the Innovation Centre has helped to fuel the early success of their businesses.
“There is a common circle of people involved with helping startups at different stages in the local tech community right now and there is a lot of deal flow lately for new and established investors.”
Exciting news for the local tech community – looking forward to what is in store for the new year!
About the Victoria Vipers:
The Vipers are an organized network of active, experienced angels which provide entrepreneurs with coaching including tough constructive feedback to make entrepreneurs investor-ready before or early on in the fundraising process. Three or four Vipers meet with Victoria and Vancouver Island startups at undisclosed locations to provide feedback which is kept strictly confidential.
