Every project at the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre is a collaborative effort with dozens of community or business partners, support organizations, other institutions, etc. Our partners amplify our efforts, support programming and enrich the student experience. They help stimulate economic growth in our region and through their involvement have access to the next generation of changemakers – tomorrow’s workforce.
The Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre engaged over 4,000 students and 3,000 businesses in entrepreneurial development and has supported over 250 student-led businesses. This year, one of those businesses—Alaagi, a cleantech start-up —was a Canadian finalist for the $1M Hult Prize Accelerator and named one of the Top 100 Global Start-ups by Nestlé and UNESCO.
At the centre, students connect with other students, professors and entrepreneurs and participate in award-winning programs, services and events. They find community. They learn, connect and transform. They become leaders.
If this work aligns with what you care about, let’s chat.
Entrepreneurs are essential to Canada’s economic future. They drive innovation, create jobs, and solve real-world problems. Startup activity in Canada has gained momentum, and continued investment and support for early-stage companies are key to positioning us as a global innovation leader.
At the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre, students don’t just learn about entrepreneurship—they live it. Through award-winning programs, services and events, they find community, build confidence, and become leaders ready to act.
Canada’s premier pitch competition—where student entrepreneurs go head-to-head for $10,000 and national recognition.
The Arena is a high-stakes, high-energy pitch showdown. Sixty-four of Canada’s most promising student entrepreneurs compete live, under pressure, for the title of the nation’s top innovator and a $10,000 first prize.
Modelled after the NCAA March Madness championship, The Arena unfolds in a bracket-style competition from March 3 to April 1. Each matchup is a standalone battle—fast, focused, and decisive. Pitches are delivered live. Judges deliberate in real time. Winners advance. All matches are streamed online, drawing audiences from across the country.
Throughout the month, competitors receive coaching and mentorship, sharpening their ideas and their ability to perform when it matters most.
Does this work aligns with your values? If so, let’s talk.
As a sponsor of The Arena, you help fuel the next generation of entrepreneurs—and the ideas that will shape Atlantic Canada’s future. You will see innovation in action, meet emerging leaders, and play a direct role in their success.
To make a donation, visit the link in the button below and select Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre in the designation box.
