Ontario Tech student-entrepreneurs empowered through partnership with Jennifer and Christian Lassonde

A generous donation from Jennifer and Christian Lassonde will help Ontario Tech University students address social and economic challenges through innovation and entrepreneurship. The Lassondes’ recent contribution to the university supports the Skills Series project, an initiative by the Enactus Ontario Tech chapter. The project will help guide the university’s entrepreneurial ecosystem through a student-driven approach to learning and growth.

Enactus is a unique community of entrepreneurial leaders who use business innovation to tackle social issues. Based at Brilliant Catalyst, Ontario Tech’s incubator and entrepreneurial hub, the Enactus Skills Series provides students with practical skills, mentorship and resources to transform their ideas into successful ventures. The program includes interactive workshops on business planning, marketing and financial management, innovation challenges focused on real-world problems, and networking events with industry leaders and investors.

This innovative program equips aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools and support needed to bring their business ideas to life. Students are paired with experienced entrepreneurs and experts who offer guidance and feedback. Additionally, the program provides early funding, team development, and industry connections through a pre-incubator phase. Specialized programming also supports product-based businesses and e-commerce. The series culminates in a Project Showcase where students pitch their ideas to judges and potential investors.

A youth empowerment component extends the program’s reach. Ontario Tech students mentor high school students as they develop business ideas while gaining skills in outreach, research, and marketing. Collaborations with organizations like the Boys and Girls Club of Durham and the YMCA, as well as partnerships with Enactus UOttawa and Enactus France, help make online entrepreneurial education accessible to even more youth, and to underserved communities worldwide.

With support from Jennifer and Christian Lassonde, the Skills Series is strengthening Ontario Tech’s entrepreneurial community and providing students valuable opportunities for success.

Quotes

“We are proud to support the Skills Series at Ontario Tech University. This program not only empowers students to tackle real-world challenges but also fosters the next generation of innovative entrepreneurs who will drive positive change in our communities. By investing in these students, we are investing in a brighter future.”
- Jennifer and Christian Lassonde

“One of our goals at the Brilliant Catalyst is to support the student leaders of Enactus Ontario Tech, who continue growing the Skills Series so that it can impact every student within the university. We look forward to the Brilliant Catalyst continuing their partnership with Enactus Ontario Tech and the Pierre Lassonde Family Foundation and be a hub for similar phenomenal initiatives.”
- Dr. Osman Hamid, Executive Director, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Brilliant Catalyst, Ontario Tech University