Mentor Network
Our mentor network works with students in the IgniteLab and LaunchLab programs. We strive to give the student founders priceless mentorship experiences that help them move their business ideas forward. Our participants are keen, curious and very driven, so they love engagement with experienced business professionals. Whether a business generalist, or a specialist in a certain entrepreneurial area, the guidance that the students receive is invaluable in their business training journey.
What is a mentor to us?
Our mentors are seasoned entrepreneurs with advanced expertise in a professional entrepreneurial domain. They support our student founders by providing guidance, information, and useful advice. Mentors aid our mentees through the challenges and questions that arise and offer inspiration and problem-solving techniques.
Through insights and setting goals, mentors benefit the start-up’s business and growth plans. Mentors with varied entrepreneurial experience communicate valuable knowledge to help students advance their ventures to succeed. We endeavour to grow our Mentors Network of generalists and specialists to have support for our budding entrepreneurs. While exciting and rewarding, this experience can also be quite challenging and many are looking for advice, knowledge sharing, and encouragement.
Becoming a Mentor
- Has relevant knowledge and expertise
- Gives constructive feedback
- Listens well
- Is enthusiastic to share wisdom and help mentees find answers
- Enjoys being a part of others’ success
- Give Back
- Find new talent
- Gain new perspectives
- Share expertise
- Help others achieve their goals
- Expand professional network
- Knowledge transfer and insight from seasoned entrepreneurs
- Skill and professional development
- Increase confidence
- Advance business ideas
What is the commitment?
Hub Incubator Mentors may have up to 4 hours of consultation per month from October to November, and February to March. However, the time commitment may vary based on the cohorts needs. Mentors may also be asked to present their knowledge and expertise speaking to our students in sessions in a particular term. We also ask that mentors try to attend the final pitch competitions to support the student founders as they wrap up the program.
Apply to be a mentor
If you are a University of Guelph alumnus or an entrepreneur that would be open to sharing your experience and knowledge, we would appreciate hearing from you. To explore whether a mentoring role might be a good fit for you, please fill out our form found on this page and someone from our team will be in touch!
The John F. Wood Centre for Business and Student Enterprise is developing innovators and entrepreneurs at the University of Guelph. We look for innovative and sustainable solutions to economic, social and environmental problems. It is through this mission that we empower a new generation of business leaders committed to community engagement and a sustainable future. We instill in our students a sense of social responsibility and leadership, character-building values that help develop citizenship. We help to bring ideas to life!