Accelerator Centre Announces Cohort 2 of the Global Impact Creator Program
The Global Impact Creator program, developed by the Accelerator Centre in partnership with the University of Waterloo, empowers visionary entrepreneurs who are tackling humanity’s greatest challenges — from climate change and health innovation to sustainable food systems and social equity.
October 1st, 2025 - Waterloo, ON – The Accelerator Centre (AC) is pleased to introduce the eight innovators selected for Cohort 2 of the Global Impact Creator program — a unique initiative designed to support visionary entrepreneurs who are tackling humanity’s most pressing challenges.
The Global Impact Creator program is delivered in partnership with the University of Waterloo and backed by support from academic, government, and industry leaders. The program is part of a shared commitment to cultivate groundbreaking solutions in areas such as climate action, health innovation, sustainable food systems, and social equity.
About the Program
Launched in 2023, the Global Impact Creator program brings together students, faculty, and recent graduates from UW who are developing transformative technologies and social enterprises with measurable global impact. While in the program, participants have access to:
Engaging with Experts: Gain insights and mentorship from industry experts and seasoned entrepreneurs who will guide you throughout the program.
Funding Support: A $12,000 stipend to support you as you identify an unmet need and explore potential solutions.
Skill Development: Enhance your entrepreneurial skills, from ideation to execution, with hands-on experience and expert guidance.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded individuals, industry leaders, and potential investors who share your passion for global impact.
Developing and Pilot Solutions: Use your research insights to create innovative solutions, then test and refine them in real-world settings.
The entrepreneurs joining us for Cohort 2 will embark on a six-month journey that blends one-on-one mentorship, immersive workshops, and community-building experiences, all designed to accelerate their path to global impact.
“The Global Impact Creator program reflects our belief that entrepreneurs have the power to make lasting change by solving urgent challenges facing our planet,” said Ruth Casselman, CEO of the Accelerator Centre. “By equipping these founders with resources, mentorship, and international networks, we’re not just building companies — we’re building solutions that will make a measurable difference in communities and quality of living worldwide.”
"The Global Impact Creator program is an excellent example of how the University of Waterloo collaborates with partners like the Accelerator Centre to address global challenges while also spurring entrepreneurship," said Charmaine Dean, Vice-President of Research and International at University of Waterloo. "Developing the next generation of founders with a focus on social impact aligns perfectly with Waterloo at 100’s vision to be bold and unconventional as we help shape a better future for humanity and the planet. I look forward to seeing this latest cohort of entrepreneurs bring their innovations to life."
Meet the Cohort
The following innovators have been selected to join Cohort 2 of the Global Impact Creator program:
About the Accelerator Centre
At the AC, we exist to help ambitious dreamers impact global change through their businesses. Ranked among the World's Top 5 private business accelerators by UBI Global, the AC offers an extensive selection of customizable opportunities for startups across Canada and around the world — helping founders rapidly bring their innovations to life. Learn more at https://www.acceleratorcentre.com.
Entrepreneurship at the University of Waterloo
Since 1957, entrepreneurial researchers and students have been drawn to the highly productive innovation ecosystem of the University of Waterloo. Breaking from tradition, our founders established a university that integrated work-experience with academic and research excellence. This became the foundation for a unique culture of innovation. Today, innovators can access for-credit programs along with mentorship, funding and connections in a collaborative environment of more than 45 programs that includes our flagship incubator Velocity.
Media Contacts
Tabatha Laverty
Chief Operating Officer
Accelerator Centre
[email protected]
David George-Cosh
Senior Manager, Media Relations and Issues Management
University of Waterloo
[email protected]