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What is Innovation Launchpad @ CUE?

Innovation Launchpad @ CUE is a program for innovative leaders @ CUE to help them advance their ideas into innovative solutions. The program employs an objective-based mentoring process with a goal of advancing ideas into reality and enabling CUE members to tackle the multi-disciplinary world we live in. It prepares them to think differently, communicate effectively and most importantly build a network of gurus that leads to success! 

The program includes a series of workshops, expert sessions and dedicated support for CUE members. The program is not limited to technical ideas only – any idea is welcome. Be it an app, an innovative recycling solution, a machine learning-based technology, a process, new product line, a public health-related idea such as training for cannabis use etc. 

Do you have an idea that can make an impact? Don’t keep it to yourself! Join the program by completing this short form and sign up for the Innovation Launchpad @ CUE kick-off event:

Date: Monday, October 5, 2020, 2:00pm – 3:30pm

Location: Google Meet

RSVP here!

Event details

The event will feature a keynote session:

Adventures in uncertainty: Making it up as I go on the bleeding edge, by Ashlyn Bernier, PhD., COO, SAMDesk

2:00 pm – 2:30 pm

• Education vs. Learning 
• The humility of innovation
• Embracing uncertainty and how to know if it’s a fit for you
• What it’s really like to build/work for a startup
• How you can get involved or get started

About the speaker:
Ashlyn is currently COO of SAMDesk, an Edmonton-based startup which detects critical events globally using artificial intelligence. SAMDesk has 25 employees spread across the globe, Fortune500 customers, and most recently raised a $3.6M seed round. Prior to this, Ashlyn has worked in operational roles for various startups and was the inaugural manager of the Venture Mentoring Service at the UofA. Ashlyn currently serves as Co-Chair of the Edmonton Advisory Board on Startups (EACOS), and is a Director with Rapid Fire Theatre and Edmonton’s new “innovation entity”. She holds a Ph.D. in Lab Medicine and an MBA in Innovation and Entrepreneurship. 

Workshop on Startup Steps, by David Bayda, Small Business Strategist, Business Link

2:30 pm – 3:00 pm

Have an idea and considering starting your own business? In this workshop, we will help you discover if entrepreneurship is right for you and show you how to take your idea and make it a reality. We will help you assess whether your idea is viable, as well as provide you with the tools, resources and guidance to help you along the way. You will learn the steps you need to take to start your business.

About the speaker:
David provides exceptional client service leadership, collaborates with an amazing team, and offers one-on-one guidance and advice to entrepreneurs. He has extensive business knowledge covering areas like startup planning, trend research, Business Model Canvas, marketing, crowdfunding, event planning, and strategic growth. David also loves innovation and has experience in product design, intellectual property and tech. If you need creative ideas, he can brainstorm with you!

David’s past startup experience includes running his own handyman business. He is also actively involved in various community initiatives, social causes, and always has an invention on the go!

Introduction to Innovation Launchpad @ CUE, by Isha Katyal Ph.D., Director, Innovation and Industry

3:00 pm – 3:30 pm

In this session, we will provide information on Innovation Launchpad @ CUE programming for 2020-2021.

Join the 2020-2021 cohort!

Complete this short form and we will get back to you asap!

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Please contact Isha Katyal, Director, Innovation and Industry, at isha.katyal@concordia.ab.ca for any questions related to this event.