May 6, 2010
- Manu Sharma
In Their Words
“When first approached to take part in the Ottawa Innovation Challenge, we accepted thinking that it would be another exercise in garnering exposure for Wedding Republic. We got so much more out of it! The value of being able to tap into the creative energy of the participants went beyond our expectations. Each team took the challenge seriously and aimed to provide comprehensive solutions while shooting for the “wow” we were looking for. We were impressed and very happy to have participated!”
- Hana Abaza, Wedding Republic Co-Founder, OIC 2010 Participating Company
“The Ottawa Innovation Challenge is tailored in such a way where making connection is critical and this gave me the confidence I needed to start my own business this summer.”
- Martin Cayouette, Founder of MartinMobile, OIC 2010 Participant
“OIC is one of the best innovation events in the city. I can’t think of a better opportunity for bright students to challenge themselves and refine their entrepreneurial skills.”
- Jay Payette, Accenture Consultant, OIC 2010 Mentor
“I felt that OIC 2010 had a lot of benefits to my life as a young entrepreneur. I highly recommend this challenge to anyone who wants to develop business and network skills. I had a lot of fun at this challenge and continuously talk about it with friends, family, and colleagues.”
- Khaleel Jivraj, OIC 2010 Participant
“OIC 2010 was such a great experience! In the end it wasn’t so much about what you produced but who you met and how you became inspired to push yourself even further because of them and the industry professionals who were so enthusiastic to meet us all. I had no idea there were so many inspiring and self-motivated, young entrepreneurs right here in Ottawa! Now when they become successful I can say that I know them not because I just exchanged a handshake and contact info, but because I had the chance to engage and interact with them via OIC2010.”
- Amanda Emmanuel, OIC 2010 Participant
“To me, OIC2010 was an eye-opening experience to view how technology and business operate hand-in-hand. I gained many valuable lessons including team and time management, product and business development. I also had a great opportunity to built a strong working relationship with participants, organizers and mentors. At the same time, I have realized some of my weakness during the Challenge, which I am looking to forward improve in the future. I believe the OIC is a business development engine, which has a great potential to drive and power the Ottawa Business Communities.”