Ten years. More than 350 startups. Over 1,050 jobs created. Upward of $88 million raised. That's the power of the Forge.
It's been a decade since McMaster's business incubator opened its doors and the anniversary will be marked on June 4 with a celebration of the entrepreneurial talent and community that's grown through The Forge since 2015.
The June 4 event will be held at McMaster Innovation Park from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. with a demo showcase from Forge startups, a speakers panel of entrepreneurs and industry leaders, a tour of the Forge Makerspace, and awards for standout contributors in the Forge community, along with food, music, and networking.
From students taking their first leap into entrepreneurship to innovative community members working to drive meaningful impact, the Forge has supported a wide variety of entrepreneurs over the past 10 years, said Leigh Wilson, interim director of the Forge.
"This celebration isn't just about how far the Forge has come; it's about the people who've made it what it is," said Wilson. "June 4 is a moment to reflect on the accomplishments of our founders, the connections we've fostered, and the future we're building together."
The event's title sponsor is QReserve, which was one of the first ever graduates of the Forge.
The company's all-in-one scheduling platform was developed right here in Hamilton and the Forge played an important role in providing QReserve with a consistent source of support, encouragement and community from the very beginning, said CEO and co-founder Graeme Brown.
"Throughout the past decade, the Forge has been the place in our local ecosystem where brilliant ideas are formed into high potential companies, and where brilliant people become polished entrepreneurs in a highly supportive environment," said Brown.
"We are very proud to be an early alumnus of the Forge and we are excited to actively participate in its programming and events over the next 10 years as it supports the next wave of entrepreneurs from McMaster University and beyond."
The event is free and open to everyone in the McMaster community and beyond. Click here to register.
The panel on June 4 will be moderated by Ward 4 Councillor Tammy Hwang and will feature Eric Spearin, a longstanding mentor with the Forge who is president and founder of Transervice Integrated Solutions. Jocelyn Wessels, co-founder of Afynia Laboratories, Anoop Gadhrri, co-founder of AXIBO, and Michael Jobity, founder of Jetson Infinity, will also join the panel to share stories and insight about their companies' successes.
Companies taking part in the anniversary showcase will include:
The Forge offers cohort-based programs to facilitate idea development, validation and sustainable growth, regardless of industry.
Aspiring entrepreneurs can get their companies off the ground through mentorship and funding support, industry connections, and events and workshops like Startup Survivor, a four-month innovation program that has served as the launchpad for countless Forge alumni.
