Aeir

Guiding academics towards entrepreneurial success

Researchers are at the cutting edge of knowledge and innovation, with unparalleled potential to translate their research into massive commercial and social impact.

But, the path to realizing that impact is met with many challenges, from mitigating the considerable technical risk inherent in deep tech innovations to the need to balance academic and entrepreneurial responsibilities.

We're here to help you effectively navigate each challenge and make real strides toward entrepreneurial success.

Accomplished Mentors

Aeir mentors are seasoned academics and entrepreneurs with diverse expertise, who’ve successfully navigated the entrepreneurial landscape before.

Guided Mentorship

Receive customized, practical, & ongoing 1:1 guidance to help you anticipate, prepare for, & accelerate past challenges throughout your journeys.

Premier Resources

Gain a competitive edge for funding and market entry by getting introduced to practical resources and exclusive networks when they're most essential.

Dion Kelly

Dion’s personal drive to address neurological disorders inspired her venture, Possibility Neurotechnologies. Her team has developed a groundbreaking neurostimulation technology empowering children with cerebral palsy to perform everyday tasks—like turning on lights—with their thoughts.

See Dion's Story

Jordan Smith

Jordan’s passion for and deep understanding of quantum physics and emerging cybersecurity threats led him to launch Quantized Technologies Inc. QTI creates cybersecurity solutions to protect data and networks from future quantum computing threats, focusing on industries like finance, healthcare, and telecommunications.

See Jordan's Story

Valerie Taylor

With her eye on revolutionizing mental health treatment, Valerie Taylor co-found Taylored Biotherapeutics. Her team is working to treat conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, and OCD with safe, targeted psychotherapeutic solutions targeting the gut microbiome with far fewer side effects than traditional treatments.

See Valerie's Story

Take a peak at some seriously impressive entrepreneurs

Aeir connects academic entrepreneurs with a diverse team of mentors who've been there before. They've taken research from the lab and turned it into economic and social impact before. They understand what's required to succeed.

$8.8M

Capital raised by Aeir ventures

32

Aeir-mentored ventures accepted to advanced entrepreneurship programs.

41

Innovation teams mentored by our experts.

18

Jobs created from the efforts of Aeir's Alumni companies.

Aeir was absolutely pivotal in providing me with the right information critical to key decision-making early on.

Jordan Smith

Co-founder/CEO, Quantized Technologies Inc.

Need support?

We support any UCalgary researchers, from grad student to professor, engaged in innovative, transformative research, looking for guidance in translating their research into significant economic or social impact through venture creation.

Ventures who continue making an impact.

FAQ's

Why should I apply to Aeir?

The Aeir program provides a unique opportunity to help transform your innovative academic research into a successful startup, guided by seasoned mentors who specialize in bridging the gap between academia and entrepreneurship. This program not only equips you with the necessary skills to commercialize your research but also empowers you to make a tangible, global impact with your ideas.

Who should apply to Aeir?

Individuals who should apply to the Aeir program are academic researchers with a passion for innovation and a desire to transform their research into practical, market-driven applications. This program is ideal for scholars eager to navigate the entrepreneurial landscape, overcome commercialization challenges, and are committed to making a significant impact on society and the economy through their research-driven enterprises.

What is group mentoring?

Group mentoring means that there are multiple mentors at each meeting. This ensures that you get support from multiple perspectives, and helps mitigate the bias associated with an individual mentor.

How much does Aeir cost?

Free, zero, zip, nada. The Aeir program is available at no cost, and we take no equity in your company.

What is the advantage of Aeir?

Put simply, we increase the chance that you will have a successful startup.

How long is the program?

The Aeir mentorship program can vary in duration, lasting anywhere from six months to three years. The length of the program is flexible and is determined based on the specific needs of the teams, the pace of innovation, the area of innovation, and the need to move the innovation beyond the university ecosystem.

Who designed the Aeir program?

The Aeir program was conceived by academics who are also seasoned entrepreneurs, creating a mentorship platform that addresses the unique challenges of commercializing academic research. It's designed to support scholars in launching research-driven enterprises by providing guidance through the complexities of academic entrepreneurship.

Do I need a company to apply to Aeir?

No, you need to have an idea, passion, and grit. We can help with company formation when appropriate, and help you think about the team that will support you.