What we offer
The SURGE Experience
Join SURGE! Fill out an application form. This application informs the SURGE Team of the business and stage the client is at with their idea. The application is then sent to the SURGE Team for review and next steps. All Clients begin their entrepreneurial journey in Level 2:
Level 2: Spark
Have an idea you’re wanting to explore? The Spark program supports clients through training and workshops to teach them managerial and administration skills needed in running a business. In Spark you gain access to:
- All events, and general workshops and training sessions offered by the Centre for Entrepreneurship
- Monthly mentorship drop-in access
- Access to SURGE workbook and training
- Access to specialized workshop series
Level 3: Ignite
Ignite Clients gain access to resources needed to launch their business. Ignite offers personalize support to tackle challenges you may face in launching and growing your business. Ignite clients gain access to everything in Spark, plus:
- Apply for one-on-one mentorship opportunities
- Access to free resources such as a legal team
- Connections to the Hamilton Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
- Support with funding and applications
- Connections to the SURGE and Centre for Entrepreneurship’s Network of entrepreneurs
SURGE Alumni Entrepreneurs
PRELUDIUM
Amanda Ottoni (BMusA) is a musician and entrepreneur living in Dundas, Ontario. Her business, Preludium, is an inclusive music school in the Greater Hamilton Area. After receiving first place in Mohawk’s Pitch it to Win it Competition and being supported by the City of Hamilton’s Starter Company Plus grant, Preludium began operating full time. Amanda now conducts lessons in piano, voice, ukulele, music theory and music history in Preludium’s studio, in student’s homes, and virtually.
Solange Medical Aesthetics
Jenn found her true passion in nursing seven years ago. She fell in love with helping others look and feel their best and approached SURGE to help her grow a cosmetics injection business. With the support of SURGE and her mentors, Jen launched Solange Medical Aesthetics In June 2021 with 10 full-time staff, 8 contracted professionals and her own shop located on Upper James. Rooted in a Parisienne flair, they offer a unique European boutique-style experience and specialize in services such as lash extensions, injections, filler, and other cosmetic procedures.
Urban Escapade
Dwitney Bethel (Small Business and Entrepreneurship Graduate Diploma) is a Bahamian entrepreneur living in Hamilton, Ontario. Her business, Urban Escapade, is a local team building and virtual event planning company. Dwitney became a Surge client during her time at Mohawk College. She participated in the Pitch It To Win It Competition working with her mentor, Marilyn Powers. After receiving first place in the 2019 Women and Entrepreneurship Quick Pitch Competition and being supported by the City of Hamilton’s Starter Company Plus Grant, Urban Escapade began operating full time in 2020. Dwitney now conducts virtual classes and private events, including escape rooms, murder mysteries, trivia nights, and custom games on various homeschooling, corporate and remote team building platforms.