British Columbia Innovation Council

SFU Venture Connection provides resources and opportunities to help young technology entrepreneurs succeed. Offering training and support for new tech ventures from the very first spark all the way to business validation, Venture Connection links SFU students with local entrepreneurs, experienced advisors, funding opportunities and other business connections.

In alignment with BCIC's mission to support the development of technology entrepreneurs, BCIC was an original funding partner of Venture Connection and continues its support to further strengthen the programs and services available to aspiring technology entrepreneurs in the SFU community.

BCIC's support of Venture Connection will expand the focus on technology entrepreneurs within these programs and activities:

• Mentors-in-Residence: Experienced entrepreneurs who provide one-on-one advisory services for students.
• Mentor Meet: An informal session where students with business ideas meet with one of the Mentors-in-Residence to get initial feedback and guidance.
• Venture Labs: A business accelerator and incubator for student entrepreneurs or teams. The program offers virtual and resident support for idea phase, concept phase and business phase clients.
• Business Concept Competition: An annual competition to identify and reward the best business concepts created by SFU students.
• Student Entrepreneur of the Year: An annual competition to identify and reward students who have existing businesses.
• Workshops/speaker events: Workshops and speakers are presented throughout the year, some with practical advice and some providing inspiration from successful entrepreneurs.
• Venture Connection Affiliates: Venture Connection recruits business experts who are willing to speak to groups and classes, and mentor student teams, competitions or clubs.