Georgian College recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Catapult Grey Bruce agreeing to partner on projects and initiatives that support mutual growth and regional capacity building in Grey and Bruce counties.

Sara Bentham, director at the Henry Bernick Entrepreneurship Centre (HBEC) at Georgian's Barrie campus, will join the Catapult Grey Bruce board of directors as part of the collaboration.

“We’re excited about this new partnership as there are so many opportunities for us to support each other through in-kind resources, volunteer time, coordination of events, and collaboration on initiatives or activities,” said Bentham. “Catapult Grey Bruce is a valuable incubator for entrepreneurship in the region and we’re looking forward to working with their team to leverage each other's resources to support entrepreneurs in Grey Bruce.”

Bentham, added that through HBEC the college can support the development and growth of businesses in a range of sectors through coaching, mentorship, resources, and programming.

Sara Bentham, left, director, Henry Bernick Entrepreneurship Centre at Georgian College, Dave Shorey, centre, executive director, Owen Sound Campus and Cathryn Love, right, executive director for Catapult Grey Bruce

In addition to in-kind resources, volunteer time and event coordination, the mutual partnership includes sharing news articles and research projects, technical support and expertise in the development of projects, and more.

Catapult Grey Bruce is an incubator providing opportunities that empower established entrepreneurs in the region with connections, knowledge and space to take their business to the next level. Since 2019, they’ve been helping entrepreneurs realize their dreams and create new opportunities in Grey Bruce. Their core group of founders are successful local entrepreneurs who come with on-the-ground experience and expertise.

“We are thrilled to have the support and leadership of Georgian College and the Henry Bernick Entrepreneurship Centre to deliver improved programming and mentorship to entrepreneurs in Grey Bruce,” said Cathryn Love, executive director, Catapult Grey Bruce. “The partnership means more resources for startups and rural entrepreneurs to grow their businesses and create jobs locally.”

Georgian and Catapult Grey Bruce share a commitment to economic growth in Grey and Bruce counties, an innovative and resilient business sector, and improved skills and knowledge for the digital age. The two organizations will work together to drive projects and programs forward for the broad benefit of our local communities.

source: media release, Georgian College