York University's YSpace continues to expand its innovation ecosystem through strategic partnership with Lab2Market (L2M) to deliver the Lab2Market Validate Ontario Cohort.
This initiative provides graduate researchers with the resources and mentorship needed to transform their research ideas into market-ready innovations.
This four-month program offers graduate students and their faculty supervisors a structured path to assess the commercial potential of their research with $10,000 in funding support.
Participants in the program will receive:
- $10,000 in funding to advance research validation;
- a world-class curriculum delivered by leading innovation experts;
- mentorship from best-in-class advisors, industry professionals and funders; and
- access to a national entrepreneurial network and community.
Amir Asif
David Kwok
"Lab2Market Validate is a powerful program that enables researchers to explore entrepreneurship and move their research beyond the academic setting," said David Kwok, director of entrepreneurship and innovation at YSpace. "This partnership allows us to strengthen the bridge between research and real-world impact. It's also an incredible way to introduce our researchers to the suite of programs and support that YSpace offers."
York University Vice-President Research and Innovation, Amir Asif, highlights the institution's commitment to fostering innovation.
"Through our partnership with Lab2Market, the L2M Validate program empowers graduate researchers to translate their ideas into real-world solutions. This initiative strengthens our innovation ecosystem by bridging academic research with commercialization opportunities, driving impact across industries and communities."
The program also plays a key role in preparing future innovators, says Michael Carew, national programming lead at Lab2Market.
"Lab2Market is excited to be partnering with YSpace and York University to deliver the L2M Validate Ontario Cohort this fall," he says. "Through funding, mentorship, and access to a robust entrepreneurial network, we are equipping and empowering the next generation of innovators to thrive in today's innovation-driven economy."
The Lab2Market program supports graduate and postdoctoral researchers across Canada as they explore careers in entrepreneurship. YSpace's leadership in delivering the Ontario L2M Validate stream reflects York University's commitment driving research-based innovation and creating pathways for academic discoveries that address real-world challenges.
Applications for the Ontario cohort are now open and will close on May 23.
For more information about the Lab2Market Validate program and to apply, visit the YSpace website.
This story was originally featured in YFile, York University's community newsletter.
