TD Bank Group invests $400K in support of Yukon business incubator 

Yukon University’s Innovation & Entrepreneurship (I&E) is launching a Yukon business incubator, thanks to a $400K contribution from TD Bank Group. Over the next four years, this early-stage business incubation program, IncubateNorth, will support entrepreneurs throughout the territory to grow their businesses locally, nationally, and internationally. 

The IncubateNorth team will work with each successful applicant to develop a 12 to 18-month program specific to the needs of the entrepreneur. The incubator will offer shared workspace, support and programming for applicants to gain the skills and knowledge needed to grow their business within and beyond the Yukon. IncubateNorth is Canada’s first regional incubator and will be available remotely for Yukon communities.  

“Thanks to TD Bank Group’s generous donation, IncubateNorth will fill a gap in business supports for growth-stage entrepreneurs,” said Lauren Manekin Beille, manager, Innovation & Entrepreneurship. This program will help businesses mitigate avoidable risks in an early stage start-up, thereby increasing the rate of success and decreasing the time taken to gain traction.” 

The incubation program will offer customized programming that will encompass skill and business development, educational opportunities, coaching and mentoring, and access to a shared workspace for collaboration and networking. This inclusive and collaborative environment will allow entrepreneurs to gather expertise and momentum to strengthen their business networks and direction.  

 "This is an exciting opportunity for Yukon entrepreneurs to scale their business as the territory looks toward a future of economic growth," said Andy Cribb, regional senior vice president, TD Pacific Region. "TD is thrilled to support IncubateNorth where business leaders can gain new knowledge and build the confidence they need to achieve success." 

IncubateNorth is now accepting applications for the first intake that begins December 1, 2020. More information can be found on the IncubateNorth webpage.  

Innovation & Entrepreneurship (I&E) is a Yukon University service that supports innovators and entrepreneurs through funding, resources, expertise and incubation. I&E is located at NorthLight Innovation with funding contributions from Government of Yukon Department of Economic Development and the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor).