Help for Ontario software firms

Hello all

Coral CEA already works with Mohawk College to help software firms push towards commercialization. Now they are working with the DMZ @ Ryerson. Details below, if you are a software firm in the communications enabled applications space Coral CEA may be an option to examine.

Ottawa and Toronto, ON ­­– February 14, 2012 – Ottawa-based Coral CEA has invested $120,000 in four companies located at Ryerson University’s Digital Media Zone (DMZ), and Coral CEA is reviewing possible investments in even more firms at the DMZ.  “We are attracted to teams who are ‘getting it done’ versus talking about innovation and we want this type of collaboration to set a new standard in Ontario,” says Brian Forbes, Executive Director at Coral CEA. Forbes believes the DMZ has taken a hands-on approach with entrepreneurs that is a perfect fit with Coral CEA.

At the DMZ Coral CEA has invested in:

ARB Labs Inc. designed a software application that that allows any video display to create an immersive 3D effect – without the need for goggles or glasses

Greenguage Inc. developed a software tool for smartphone and Web that blends mobile technology with the green movement allowing monitoring of Corporate Social Responsibility efforts

HitSend Inc. offers an online platform to enable and enhance community-based change by tapping into the community’s collective voice

ViaFoura Inc. created a cloud-based plug and play user engagement and gaming platform for online content sites

“Coral CEA’s funding will allow us to add two more people to our current staff of five. The DMZ and Coral CEA are not just paying lip service to innovation, they are not just talking, they have a plan of action,” says Warren Tanner CMO at HitSend. He adds, “There is no better business school than starting a business and that is exactly what we do.”

The DMZ launched in the spring of 2010 with over 6,000 square feet of downtown Toronto office space. In just over a year and a half, the DMZ has almost doubled in size and has assisted more than 190 innovators to incubate and accelerate 38 startups, launched more than 61 projects and fostered over 350 jobs.  Brad Duguid, Ontario Minister of Economic Development and Innovation says,. “Collaborations like this are the key to success.  That’s why we helped establish Coral CEA and why we’ve made it easier for entrepreneurs across the province to get the help they need to succeed.

“Canada is a resource-rich nation, including knowledge resources. We also have a rich history of innovation, especially in communications.  Communications innovation helps refine knowledge resources, adding value for global export,” says Forbes. Coral CEA has assisted more than 50 companies to capitalize on innovation.

“The DMZ at Ryerson fosters innovation with a lean methodology and small teams that are very focused on going to market. Ontario will see action from our collaboration with new jobs, companies and applications,” says Forbes.

http://www.coralcea.ca

Coral CEA contacts
Brian Forbes
Executive Director
Phone: 613-317-2118
Email: bforbes@coralcea.ca

DMZ Contact
Lauren Schneider
Media Relations Officer
Phone: 416-979-5000 ext.42997
Email: lauren.schneider@ryerson.ca