Partnership between Caledon and TMU will see business incubator come to Bolton

March 20, 2025 · 0 Comments

By ZACHARY ROMAN

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

A business incubator will soon be coming to Bolton.

On March 14, the Town of Caledon announced it had partnered with Toronto Metropolitan University’s (TMU) business incubator, DMZ, to launch a business incubator at the Humber River Centre (HRC).

Through the partnership, DMZ will design and implement an incubator program “tailored to the unique economic landscape of Caledon”, said the Town in its announcement.

According to the release, thanks to the incubator Caledon entrepreneurs, start-ups and businesses will gain access to: customized workshops, training sessions, and one-on-one mentorship from industry experts; support in business development, digital transformation, and operational efficiency; opportunities to connect with investors, business leaders, and government stakeholders; and access to tools and resources that enhance brand visibility and business scalability.

Over the next three years, the Town and DMZ hope to incubate up to 45 start-ups, host over 350 workshops and events, and establish strategic partnerships to “enhance investment opportunities and business expansion.”

Caledon Mayor Annette Groves said the Town is committed to fostering innovation and economic development in Caledon.

“By partnering with TMU’s DMZ, we are providing for our local entrepreneurs and attracting new investment with world-class resources and opportunities that will drive sustainable business growth and job creation,” said Groves.

Caledon’s CAO, Nathan Hyde, said the new partnership is an exciting step forward.

“By working alongside DMZ, one of the world’s top-ranked business incubators, we are offering local entrepreneurs and small businesses access to unparalleled resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Through this initiative, we are not only encouraging the growth of our local economy but also positioning Caledon as a hub for innovation and job creation,” said Hyde.

Abdullah Snobar, Executive Director of DMZ and the CEO of DMZ Ventures, said DMZ is honoured to partner with the Town of Caledon to bring “world-class entrepreneurial support” to Caledon.

“The future of Canada’s start-up economy isn’t just in big cities — it’s in the drive, grit and ideas coming out of towns like Caledon. When we invest in local entrepreneurs, we unlock new engines of innovation and economic growth. This partnership is about meeting entrepreneurs where they are and building pathways for bold ideas to thrive — right in their own backyard,” said Snobar.

Anyone interested in learning more about the new partnership and business incubator can visit caledonbusiness.ca/hrc.