Meet the 2023 BMO Launch Me Winners

HLOs:   

The Longo Center for Entrepreneurship (CfE) was proud to have had the opportunity to organize and host the Live Pitch and Celebration Event, where a total of $130,000 in cash prizes was awarded to the BMO Launch Me competition finalists. The event, held on March 23rd, 2023, was a festive occasion featuring live music, delectable cuisine, and a showcase of groundbreaking ideas.

Congratulations to 18 finalists who competed in three different streams:

Women Innovators - First Place Winner: Nina Staer Nathan

Nina Staer Nathan, an alumna of the International Development (ID) graduate certificate program, placed first in the Women Innovators category of the BMO Launch Me Competition, hosted by the Longo Centre for Entrepreneurship.

After graduating from Humber, Nina undertook a placement with a small non-profit organization that focused on women's empowerment in rural Guatemala. After fulfilling her required placement hours, Nina remained with the agency as the Grants and Communications Manager for two years. Her passion for social impact and entrepreneurship eventually led her to establish her venture, Sunflower Communications, based in Guatemala.

Under Nina's leadership, Sunflower Communications has assembled a team of two other exceptional women who work with non-profits and social enterprises in Guatemala. The company has also recently acquired clients in Canada and the United States, demonstrating it's expanding global reach.

Nina's success in the BMO Launch Me Competition highlights her commitment to advancing the role of women in entrepreneurship and driving positive change in the world. Her entrepreneurial spirit, combined with her expertise in international development and passion for social impact, makes her a shining example of a successful ID graduate.

Ground Breakers - Second Place Winner: Harrison Cowden

Harrison Cowden, a final-year student enrolled in the Hospitality and Tourism Operations Management program captured second place in the Ground Breaker category.

In addition to receiving recognition for his accomplishment, Harrison has also earned a significant funding award of $10,000, which he can utilize to advance his future goals.

Participating in the competition also presented Harrison with an opportunity to hone essential skills such as public speaking, networking, and strategic thinking, which are crucial attributes for success in the hospitality and tourism industry.

Harrison's achievement showcases his outstanding talents and determination, which are undoubtedly an asset for his future career endeavours. The institution and faculty members are proud of his achievement and are confident that he will continue to excel.

About the Competition

The BMO Launch Me Program is designed to help students and recent alumni prepare for success in the BMO Launch Me competition. This program entails a series of skill-building workshops designed to aid in the development of business ideas and plans, ultimately increasing the likelihood of success in the competition.

The first phase of the competition requires the submission of a well-crafted business plan, which will be evaluated by a panel of judges. Successful candidates will then move on to the finals and have the opportunity to present their ideas in a five-minute pitch to the judges.

Participants have the chance to win a portion of the $130,000 in funding allocated to three categories including:

• BMO Women Innovators Competition: For women-identifying entrepreneurs
• BMO Groundbreaker Competition: For all current students
• BMO New Graduate Startup Competition: For Humber graduates (within 2 years of graduation)

The BMO Launch Me Program and competition present an exciting opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs to showcase their innovative ideas and receive support and recognition from industry experts. With the aid of the program's workshops and funding, students and alumni are well-positioned to pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions and achieve their business goals.

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