MENTORING STARTUPS
Local firms get assistance
Two local organizations are on a mission to grow entrepreneurship and prosperity in Southwestern Ontario.
Six local startups were selected by Libro Credit Union and WEtech Alliance to receive funding and mentorship as a part of the organizations’ push for regional economic growth. Libro Credit Union and WEtech Alliance have committed a $5,000 grant, office space, and mentorship to each startups. The partnership was announced at a news conference Wednesday.
“What’s really great about this program is that it’s unique,” said WEtech Alliance CEO Yvonne Pilon. “These entrepreneurs are not just going to be coached by the advisers at WEtech; they’re also going to be coached by the team at Libro.”
Edwin Padilla is the president of Powerball Technologies, one of the businesses selected to be a part of the program. Powerball Technologies is a company that uses augmented reality to help customers imagine what certain furniture pieces would look like in their homes.
“It’s the Pokemon GO of the furniture industry,” said Padilla of his futuristic business idea.
He said that this opportunity and partnership is crucial to emerging businesses in the region.
“It’s really an emotional rollercoaster, filled with amazing highs and also lonely lows,” said Padilla. “It takes a community to get you through that journey.”
Ryan Cant is another local entrepreneur in the program. He says EnviroDrone, his company that offers drone services to environmental projects, will benefit from the specific regional support this program offers.
“What Libro has started up and WEtech are doing is bringing the community together,” said Cant.
This is the first time Libro has partnered with local entrepreneurs to help them on their journey.
“You’re going to be our guinea pigs,” laughed Lori Atkinson, Libro regional manager for EssexKent.
Some of the new businesses are currently operating in the Windsor region. One of these businesses, Clinic Seeker, is a new app that’s already being promoted by Windsor Regional Hospital. The app helps users find clinics based on location and approximate wait times. It’s offered as a solution to overcrowded emergency rooms during flu season and other high volume times.
Libro and WEtech hope that the community will back these six startup companies on their journey to success.
“This is not the last time you’ll see these entrepreneurs,” said Pilon. “We want the community to get to know these entrepreneurs. We want you to follow them.”
Updates on the emerging businesses will be released quarterly, and the community can track their progress with #LibroStartUp.