Home to Conestoga’s Applied Research and Innovation office, C4E provides a range of full and part-time programs to provide students with the tools, advice and experience to become successful entrepreneurs.
According to Conestoga president John Tibbits, C4E is an ideal fit with the college’s focus on career-focused education that contributes to the prosperity of the community. “The development and growth of small business is essential to our region’s economic success,” Tibbits said. “Small and medium-sized enterprises make up the vast majority of our area employers.”
A recent study by economist Larry Smith indicates that more than 3,000 Conestoga graduates have started their own businesses.
Local entrepreneur and community builder Mike Stork, who chaired Conestoga’s Entrepreneurship Campaign committee and is a founding partner of C4E, shared his insights regarding the region’s changing economy and the important role that the Centre will play in preparing students for successful futures.
“Entrepreneurs put everything on the line,” said Stork, who cited the importance of creativity and drive, as well as “good mentors and advisors along the way,” as essential components for entrepreneurial success.
Stork spoke of the reinvention of our economic sector over the next decade, and the growing need for entrepreneurs who will drive our economy forward. “A whole new crop of companies will emerge from C4E,” he said. “I look forward to seeing their successes.”
For more information, visit the Centre for Entrepreneurship