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York University's YSpace expands to northern York Region

Towns of Georgina, East Gwillimbury are partnering with York U for the 2-year business incubator/accelerator project to support entrepreneurs during the pandemic recovery
YorkU

York University’s YSpace business incubator/accelerator is expanding to northern York Region as a result of a partnership with the towns of Georgina and East Gwillimbury.

The project will support entrepreneurs and accelerate economic growth during the recovery phase of the COVID-19 pandemic and into the future, according to a Town of East Gwillimbury news release.

The Georgina YSpace hub, located at 1 Market St. in Sutton, will help business start-ups and existing businesses, as well as remove barriers to accessing entrepreneurship and business acceleration for rural communities.

East Gwillimbury will offer in-person programming in temporary locations in the municipality where YSpace programming and resources for startup and existing businesses will be available.

“Throughout the past couple of years we have experienced the importance of entrepreneurship and business development for the economic growth of our community. This hub will support local entrepreneurs by providing the tools and support to help accelerate new start-up businesses while also aiding in the recovery of existing businesses," said Georgina Mayor Margaret Quirk.

“Our communities are growing, and partnerships like these ensure we’re doing our part to create a balanced and robust economic ecosystem,” says Mayor Virginia Hackson. “Working together, York University, East Gwillimbury and Georgina are providing entrepreneurs with the support they need and access to the right programs helping to bring their ideas to life through the new YSpace Business Incubator/Accelerator Hub.”

This dedicated space will feature virtual and in-person learning and allow for collaboration with other business owners and create connections with mentors. The physical space will offer computer access, internet, video conferencing solutions, photography tools for e-commerce and online content creation, collaboration spaces, programming support, and business community resources.

“The launch of this YSpace Hub in northern York Region is an exciting partnership for York University to create substantive impact across the localized communities in the region,” said Rhonda Lenton, president and vice-chancellor of York University. “York University is committed to leveraging the success of YSpace’s entrepreneurship programs and make available customized resources to support economic growth and prosperity for the Town of Georgina and East Gwillimbury.”

An important part of this program is the connection to community groups and programs. The YSpace hub would act as a connection to other stakeholders that provide support and resources to businesses in the community. YSpace programs will be refined and augmented to address the specific needs of each business community.

To find out more about the YSpace Entrepreneurship Hub visit georgina.ca/YSpace