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Need a sounding board for your startup idea?
45-minute brainstorming sessions every Thursday & Friday from 2:00 – 4:00 PM.
Whether you're just starting out with an idea or exploring early-stage development, these sessions provide a valuable space for aspiring entrepreneurs and early-stage startups to brainstorm ideas, discuss challenges, and prioritize their next steps.
All Arts & Science students, alumni, post-docs, faculty, staff and CfE co-workers are welcome! Advance registration is encouraged to secure your 45-minute slot.
Drop-ins are welcome if space is available, but registered attendees will be prioritized.
WHEN: Thursdays & Fridays from 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
DURATION: 45 minutes
WHO: All Arts & Science students, alumni, post-docs, faculty, staff and CfE co-workers are welcome
LOCATION: Centre for Entrepreneurship, 108 College St, 6th Floor; Please Note: This is a secure building. Registered brainstorming session participants can check in with security on the ground floor for 6th floor access. Drop-ins will be granted access based on session availability.
Session Advisors
Meet the advisors, Venture Mentoring Service (VMS) Mentors Mary Jane Braide and Amir Alam:
Mary Jane Braide
Mary Jane is a business strategist, brand coach and University of Toronto alumna whose consulting clients span global fintech, private equity, health care, energy, avionics and NGOs, demonstrating her versatility and expertise in corporate strategy, governance and brand positioning. Mary Jane has also been an advisor to early stage and growth enterprises at the MaRS Discovery District and is dedicated to turning entrepreneurial energy into great things for Canada. Her particular focus with early stage ventures is to help sharpen the core of the value proposition - as the foundation for a compelling business model.
Amir Alam
Amir is an innovative entrepreneur and University of Toronto alumnus with a background in Cell System Biology and Genetics. Amir founded Shoe Laundry, Canada’s first eco-friendly premium shoe care brand, and has diverse professional experience in the tech, healthcare, and entertainment sectors. He has worked in Virtual Production at Pixomondo and Sony Innovation Lab, contributing to major productions such as The Boys and Star Trek: Discovery. Amir is passionate about helping emerging entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of building a sustainable and impactful business.
Have a question or need help scheduling a session?
Please contact entrepreneurship.artsci@utoronto.ca