The best startup accelerator in Quebec is at Concordia
Xavier-Henri Hervé, D3’s director: “Innovation leaders can easily impact the world of tomorrow."
The District 3 Innovation Center (D3), Concordia’s very own incubator, was named the Quebec regional "Entrepreneur Support" winner at the 2016 Startup Canada Awards.
The accolade recognizes organizations, including academic institutions, private businesses, government agencies and not-for-profits, that have demonstrated excellence in advancing Canadian entrepreneurship.
“Concordia is not only dedicated to innovation but now we are recognized amongst the nation’s best — this is fantastic news,” says Xavier-Henri Hervé, D3’s director. “It is the 21st century, in which innovation leaders can easily impact the world of tomorrow, and we’re proud to be part of that.”
Noor Elhuda El Bawab, head of communications and strategy, says that whether it’s a matter of ideation, validation, developing a prototype or selling and growing a product, D3 is there to offer guidance and support to its startups.
“This award confirms we’re on the right track. Our team works very hard to propel entrepreneurs through the startup journey and to be recognized on a national level is a great validation that we're accomplishing our mission,” she says.
D3 will be celebrated at the Startup Canada regional awards ceremony on October 12 in Montreal, and is now among the few nominees for the 2016 Startup Canada Grand Finale Awards.
For Renee Tavares, projects coordinator at Startup Canada, D3 is a great example of how a university-led initiative can amplify a local startup ecosystem.
"It brings together a diverse range of individuals with various skill sets to accelerate innovation and entrepreneur impact. We look forward to sharing your story across Canada."
To date, 420 entrepreneurs have walked through D3’s doors. This September, the incubator will welcome a new cohort of 36 startup projects ranging from synthetic biology to genetic engineering and artificial intelligence.
Whether you're an alumni, a professor, a student, a new applicant or a parent of a student, Hervé says you’re welcome to bring your project to Concordia's D3. “If you think you have an idea to improve our society, ecosystem, and future come join us on this journey!"
Find out more about the District 3 Innovation Center.
