Visit to Waterloo

His Excellency spoke about the Centre’s beginnings and how it is making a difference in Canada’s innovation landscape.

On the occasion of the Accelerator Centre’s 10th anniversary celebrations, the Governor General visited the Centre to see client demonstrations and deliver remarks.

Mr. Ken Seiling, Regional Chair, Region of Waterloo Council, said a few words of welcome.

Dr. Feridun Hamdullahpur, President and Vice-Chancellor, University of Waterloo, also delivered remarks.

The Governor General was the founding patron of the Centre when he was president and vice-chancellor of the University of Waterloo.

The Accelerator Centre is a world-renowned, award-winning network of facilities dedicated to developing and commercializing technology start-ups. It provides an essential combination of in-house mentorship, educational programming, facilities, networking and access to funding and facility services, with a goal of building successful companies.

The Governor General visited the Conrad Business, Entrepreneurship and Technology Centre, the academic engine for entrepreneurship at the University of Waterloo, where he met with some of its students.

The Governor General spoke with students about the importance of innovation and their role as future business leaders in Canada. Students also had the opportunity to ask the Governor General their questions.

The Conrad Centre is known for its strong focus on innovation and entrepreneurship, research-driven faculty and a reputation for producing the leaders of tomorrow by offering entrepreneurial academic programs.