FLINTHUB ONLINE INCUBATOR

We offer a range of comprehensive programs and services designed to provide you with the support, guidance, and resources needed to transform your dreams into reality. Explore how FlintHub can empower your Indigenous entrepreneurship and innovation journey.

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About the Program

FlintHub supports students in identifying and exploring community needs, connects them with community members, Elders, experienced entrepreneurs and ecosystem support organizations to empower their entrepreneurial goals. FlintHub offers a dynamic range of programming, including workshops, events, and pitch competitions. We offer a tailored experience for each participant and focus on building meaningful connections for the FlintHub community.

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Funding

We provide funding for students through our pitch competitions! Through online workshops and tailored 1-1 support, participants in FlintHub will perfect their pitch techniques and receive cash prizes towards their ventures. We also provide a modest Technology Start Up Grant that participants can use towards obtaining any necessary technology needed to succeed in the program.


Participants in FlintHub who are also enrolled in the Indigenous Entrepreneurship Diploma program are able to apply for the JP Gladu Scholarship. (Link again to the same JP Gladu link on the prev page)

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Mentorship

We provide mentorship opportunities through our skilled team who each have a background and passion for Indigenous entrepreneurship. We have an Entrepreneur in Residence who is available to provide 1-1 support to participants throughout the year. We also have a relationship with the Waterloo Indigenous Students Centre where students will have access to 1-1 support from Elders. The Director, Program Manager, and Program Coordinator also offer 1-1 support with each participant.

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Skill Development

The online Indigenous incubator is made up of both live and pre-recorded sessions that work with students on the fundamentals of entrepreneurship. All of our entrepreneurship and innovation materials are centered around Indigenous Ways of Knowing and Being.

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Workshops

We will provide numerous workshops on financial literacy, pitch development, and business planning (and more!) throughout the year with industry experts.


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Community + Celebration

We will work closely with our Elder in Residence to provide culturally relevant teachings and ceremonies throughout the year. At the heart of our program, we want participants to feel like they are a part of a community of empowerment. We will provide online opportunities for collaboration, relationship building, and feasting throughout the year.

Want to Learn More?

FAQs

  • What is the difference between the Indigenous Entrepreneurship Diploma Program and FlintHub?

    They are the same - sort of! Students who are enrolled in the Indigenous Entrepreneurship Diploma Program (INDENT) are in an accredited program at the University of Waterloo. Students will complete 6 university courses in order to complete the program. 2 of the courses are the capstone courses. The capstone courses are functionally the Indigenous incubator, FlintHub.

  • Do I need to be enrolled in INDENT to participate in FlintHub?

    No! Any Indigenous entrepreneur and/or innovator can participate in FlintHub. 

  • Do I need to be enrolled in INDENT to take the university courses?

    Yes and no. FlintHub encapsulates the capstone course, so everyone involved in FlintHub essentially takes the capstone, but only the students enrolled in INDENT will receive an academic credit. Only students enrolled in INDENT will have access to the other 4 university courses. 


  • Is there a cost to participate?

    There is a tuition fee for INDENT. If you are not enrolled in INDENT and wish to take part in FlintHub, there is no cost to attend!

  • If I am not enrolled in INDENT, am I still able to gain prizes, awards, and funding for my business?

    Yes! All of the resources in FlintHub, other than the academic credit, are open and available to all participants! 


  • I don’t have a business/business idea, can I still participate in FlintHub?

    Yes! We will work with anyone who is interested in entrepreneurship. Whether you are just curious about entrepreneurship, have a business idea already, or are even already in operations - this program is for you! We offer a tailored experience to each participant through our 1-1 supports.


  • Who provides 1-1 support?

    Elders, our Entrepreneur in Residence, the Program Director, the Program Manager, and the Program Coordinator are all here to work directly with you. We also provide networking opportunities to connect with industry experts and encourage you to stay in touch with them.


  • How do I get started?

    Contact Jacob j5crane@uwaterloo.ca

    Get Started

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