Innovation Showcase: Applying Incubation Methods

In the fall of 1991, visitors to the first Innovation Showcase met young companies that would soon make their mark as innovators of chemical, engineering and IT products. No one could foresee this modest event would also reach new heights in the years ahead.

On Thursday, Oct. 1, close to 500 visitors and VIPs will enter the same foyer and again encounter the high calibre of emerging companies at InNOVAcorp's Technology Innovation Centre.

In developing the annual event, the centre has applied its business incubation expertise to grow its own special event. In the process, it has attracted new visitors such as potential investors and strategic partners.

Innovation Showcase is the brainchild of the technology centre's client networking group. "We were not attracting enough interest regardless of the pioneering innovations taking place," said David McNamara, director of Technology Innovation Centre's development. One answer was to showcase these companies' successes.

The centre's clients have reaped the benefits. They have made essential government contacts, capitalized on networking opportunities, and discovered strategic partners, often right across the hall or in the office next door. The number of co-client projects has grown steadily since the event's inception.

"About 40 per cent of exhibitors kindle lucrative business opportunities each year," said Mr. McNamara.

This year, the Technology Innovation Centre is partnering with AgriTECH Park, its sister incubator, to add more depth to the event. It remains, however, a client-centred event that attracts attention to tomorrow's technology-based products.

This year's Innovation Showcase will be held on Thursday, Oct. 1, from 1:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., at One Research Drive in Dartmouth. Those planning to attend are asked to call 1-888-354-5855.