Startup Foundations: Money, Food & Beer, Market Research
Campus Innovation Consulting Group (CICG), in partnership with Uproot Food Collective, will conduct a 3-hour event for Edmonton Startup Week 2025 designed to support and inspire early-stage founders, researchers, and innovators. The session combines sponsored food and drinks and provides practical guidance on funding, vibrant local networking, and real-world insights into launching and growing a business in today’s market.
Please register in advance if you want food and drink at the event.
Schedule
11:45 am - 12:15 pm: Lunch sponsored by University of Alberta
12:15 pm - 1:00 pm Part 1: Beyond Grants – Strategy, Funding & Innovation Panel
A panel discussion featuring representatives from IRAP, ISED, Alberta Innovates, Mitacs, and an R&D-focused entrepreneur. This session will explore how startups can navigate non-dilutive funding, build commercialization strategies, and align innovation activities with long-term business goals.
Topics will include: understanding non-dilutive funding options; identifying programs that support commercialization; tips for crafting successful applications and partnerships; developing a funding strategy that supports go-to-market readiness; includes audience Q&A.
1:00 pm - 1:30 pm Part 2: Local Flavours, Real Connections – Networking Break
A curated networking break designed to encourage connection over delicious local food and drinks:
● Craft beer by Sea Change Brewing Co.
● Fun cocktails from Shiddy’s
● Hot savoury pies by South Island Pie Co., proudly part of Uproot Food Collective
This break allows attendees to relax, chat, and build relationships in a warm, casual environment.
1:30 pm - 2:15 pm: Part 3: Go to Market – Strategy, Research & Ecommerce Foundations
A practical panel discussion focused on building a solid foundation for business growth. Topics include: conducting effective market research; developing and testing go-to-market strategies; using e-commerce as a proof of concept and growth engine.
Panellists will represent a mix of startup founders, digital marketing strategists, and support organizations.
2:15 pm - 2:45 pm Networking with the panelists and other entrepreneurs