Business Incubator Program Extended, Operation Shifts to Regional Business Centre

Since its launch in 2022 at the Innovation Quarters, the City’s Business Incubator Program has supported 42 companies and 51 local entrepreneurs, playing a key role in helping 25 businesses start, expand or sustain their operations and contributing to the creation of 65 full-time equivalent jobs. Thanks to a renewed funding commitment from the Greater Sudbury Development Corporation (GSDC) and a change in service delivery, this program has been extended to December 2026.

In response to client needs and as an opportunity for more efficient use of resources, the Business Incubator program will transition from its current location at the Innovation Quarters (IQ) to operate under the Regional Business Centre at Tom Davies Square starting in May 2025. The move will optimize resources and enhance support for emerging businesses in a flexible format, ensuring continued access to mentorship, training and networking opportunities.

“It’s inspiring to see this program continue to provide vital support to local entrepreneurs, especially at a time when their success is so crucial to our community,” said Greater Sudbury Mayor Paul Lefebvre. “By equipping businesses with the tools they need to grow and succeed, we are strengthening our local economy and fostering innovation. As the program evolves to better serve entrepreneurs, it will continue to empower businesses, create opportunities and drive growth in Greater Sudbury.”

The program’s update responds to trends in remote work and virtual business solutions, allowing for more cost-effective delivery of services by using existing spaces, with no disruptions in program delivery.

“We are pleased to support the ongoing achievements of the Business Incubator Program, as it empowers entrepreneurs and cultivates innovation,” said Jeff Portelance, Chair of the GSDC. “We recognize the importance of adapting to the evolving work landscape, and by extending this funding, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring business owners have the pathways and support to learn, fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem that creates meaningful opportunities for growth.”

By integrating the Business Incubator program into the Regional Business Centre, the City is streamlining services and maximizing available resources to better serve local entrepreneurs.  This transition enhances the Centre’s role as a comprehensive hub for business development, complementing existing programs, including the successful Summer Company and Starter Company Plus programs.

For more information on the Business Incubator program or to apply to be a participant of the next cohort, visit www.regionalbusiness.ca/incubator.