Venture Catalyst

Venture Catalyst is a free 6-week program designed by York University's YSpace to support early-stage tech entrepreneurs in testing and validating their innovative start-up ideas, providing them with structured mentorship and access to a community of peers and industry experts.
  • Yspace
Overview of the Venture Catalyst program:

Venture Catalyst is an intensive, six-week virtual training program tailored to help early-stage technology entrepreneurs take their innovative ideas from concept to proof-of-concept. It provides participants with a structured framework that includes virtual workshops, curated mentorship from seasoned professionals, and opportunities for peer-to-peer learning. The program focuses on equipping entrepreneurs with critical skills in customer development, go-to-market strategies, and business model validation. Through interactive sessions and one-on-one guidance, participants gain actionable insights into refining their business ideas while developing personal leadership skills and accountability. The program concludes with a Demo Day, offering entrepreneurs a platform to showcase their progress and pitch their ventures to potential investors, industry leaders, and other stakeholders. Participants also gain access to a supportive entrepreneurial community, with potential inclusion in the YSpace Virtual Membership Program, offering continued resources and guidance after the program's completion.

Benefits of the Venture Catalyst program:
  • Interactive Virtual Workshops: Focused on practical skills like customer development and go-to-market strategies.
  • Expert Mentorship: Access to experienced professionals offering tailored guidance.
  • Peer Support Networks: Collaborate and learn alongside like-minded entrepreneurs.
  • Start-up Resources: Gain tools and resources to develop a strong proof-of-concept.
  • Leadership Development: Enhance personal accountability and growth mindset.
  • Networking Opportunities: Build connections with industry experts and stakeholders.
  • Demo Day: Present ideas to potential investors and industry leaders.
  • Extended Support: Potential access to the YSpace Virtual Membership Program for further development.
Eligibility criteria of the Venture Catalyst program:
  • To be eligible for the program, applicants must:
  • Be in the ideation or early validation phases of their start-up journey.
  • Demonstrate a growth mindset, coachability, and a collaborative spirit.
  • Focus on innovative tech concepts that solve real-world problems.
  • Be open to feedback and dedicated to refining their business idea.
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