Concept Catalyst is a structured and flexible program to help early-stage entrepreneurs get from validating an idea to developing an MVP.

Description

Concept Catalyst by Innovation Factory is a program designed for early-stage entrepreneurs who are ready to validate their idea, refine their business model, and build a strong foundation for growth.

Concept Catalyst is a structured yet flexible program designed to guide early-stage entrepreneurs through key foundational steps in building and scaling their venture. This program provides a mix of workshops, on-demand learning, and advisory support, helping you to refine your business model, validate your idea, and develop the skills necessary to attract funding and customers.

This program will guide you through validating your idea to developing a Minimum Viable Product (MVP). You get the flexibility of working at your own pace with access to office hours for personalized feedback and a structured guide to keep you on track.

Whether you’re refining an idea or developing your first MVP, this program gives you the tools to move forward with confidence. And as you grow, we’ll be right there with you, ready to unlock even more opportunities for your next big step. 

Apply today to start building your business with the Concept Catalyst program.

Learn more about the Concept Catalyst program

Concept Catalyst

Category

Quick Facts

  • Expert-led workshops (bi-monthly)
  • On-demand content and curated resources
  • Weekly office hours for personalized feedback
  • Monthly office hours with industry leaders
  • Drop-in office space and meeting rooms reservations
  • A guided roadmap to help track progress
  • Problem identification support
  • Customer discovery support
  • Business model canvas guidance
  • Early-stage prototyping direction

Join Innovation Factory's Annual Open House - The Big DiF!

Network with 300+ industry professionals, discover emerging solutions from our innovators, and celebrate entrepreneurship within the Hamilton-Halton ecosystem.

May 14, 2026 | 4:00pm – 8:00pm | Hamilton, Ontario

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Attend HERhalton Women in Business Breakfast

Support and celebrate the achievements of women in business and entrepreneurship. HERhalton by Innovation Factory is the region’s go-to networking event for advocates of women entrepreneurs and features engaging guest speakers to inspire and drive engaging conversation.

Expand your network and connect with the region’s influencers and innovators in the world of women in business

June 4, 2026 | 8:00am – 12:00pm EDT

Meet the top 10 finalists, and watch as they pitch their innovations live to a panel of investors and experts for cash prizes at the 16th LiONS LAIR!

Celebrate the 16th anniversary of the LiONS LAIR pitch competition!

Since 2011, we’ve helped over 170 startups launch and scale their businesses. This fall, network with 350+ entrepreneurs, investors, and leaders at a milestone evening where community, growth & collaboration meet innovation.

Meet the top 10 finalists, and watch as they pitch their innovations live to a panel of investors and experts for cash prizes!

When: September 24, 2026 | 5:00pm – 9:00pm 

Where: Oakville Banquet & Conference Centre |
2515 Wyecroft Rd, Oakville, ON L6L 6P8