Ascend Accelerator helps entrepreneurs turn business ideas into reality

Thunder Bay and Orillia, Ont.

Lakehead University recently celebrated graduates from its fourth cohort of the Ascend Accelerator program, hosted by the Ingenuity incubator space.

This year’s cohort saw four student-led Thunder Bay and Orillia-based ventures navigate their way through the entrepreneurial journey. The businesses range from augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) software development to sustainability consulting services, and Airbnb cleaning solutions.

Along with funding from the John Dobson Foundation, students were provided with a platform to transform their ideas into tangible realities. Participants received mentorship and weekly workshops and were held accountable to milestone goals created over the 10-week program, which ran from January to March.

Ingenuity manager Alyson MacKay said it was exciting to help the students develop their businesses. “I continue to be amazed at the talent that we are seeing in our students. The level of commitment and passion I have seen from these participants is incredible and I look forward to continuing to work with them,” she said.

Nestar is one of four new businesses supported through Ascend. Created by Joshua Sanchez and Aliss Chavarri, the Thunder Bay-based business specializes in providing rental solutions that enhance the renting experience for both landlords and tenants.

Nestar’s user-friendly website provides automatic payment facilities, electronic lease signing, and a sophisticated matching system with integrated background checks to connect the right tenants with the right landlords. The business is committed to setting new standards in the rental industry and transforming the way people rent and manage properties in Thunder Bay.

“The Ascend Accelerator program has had a profound impact on our company, allowing us to navigate challenges and seize opportunities we never thought possible,” Sanchez said.

“Their spaces, webinars, and connections provided us with the resources and knowledge needed to develop, launch and grow our business. We are truly grateful for their dedication to our success and recognize the countless entrepreneurs who would greatly benefit from this program. Thank you for believing in us and helping us turn our vision into reality.”

Sidney Howlett started Sidney Howlett Consulting in Orillia to help organizations navigate the complex landscape of climate action. Her firm delivers a comprehensive suite of services including consultation on climate action and sustainability strategies, professional development workshops, public speaking engagements, and informed research support.

“From access to a lawyer to review my service contracts to guidance in developing my website, the mentorship, funding, and workshops have been instrumental in establishing my business,” Howlett said. “I have already had my first successful climate action consultation with a school board and can't wait to see the impact my services have thanks to the support of the Ascend Accelerator Program."

Bryan Wong’s venture, Sprout Circle, is pushing the boundaries of technology by developing cutting-edge interactive AR/VR solutions that revolutionize education, offering students and professionals alike an unparalleled opportunity to explore and comprehend complex concepts in an immersive 3D environment.

Lesly Gunasekara’s Lavender and Luxe Cleaning Services specializes in premium cleaning services exclusively for Airbnb hosts. From swift turnovers to deep cleaning between guest stays, they ensure Airbnb properties maintain the highest standards of cleanliness.

Dr. Andrew P. Dean, Lakehead’s Vice-President, Research and Innovation, congratulated the five graduates of the program, wishing them luck with their businesses.

“The graduating entrepreneurs have demonstrated exceptional problem-solving skills by addressing market gaps with their unique products and services. Their contributions are meeting consumer needs but also fostering regional economic growth,” Dr. Dean said.

“I would like to congratulate all the graduates. I wish you all the best as you take your businesses to the next level in your entrepreneurial journey.”

For more about Ingenuity, visit www.lakeheadu.ca/centre/ingenuity.