Niagara College and St. Catharines Enterprise Centre partner to support student and alumni entrepreneurs

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Niagara College’s (NC) Community Employme7nt Services (CES) has partnered with the St. Catharines Enterprise Centre (SCEC) to strengthen entrepreneurial support for students and alumni in the Niagara region. This partnership will create pathways for aspiring entrepreneurs to launch or grow small businesses, contributing to both local economic development and their own career advancement.
 
“Through this partnership, NC is connecting our students and alumni to meaningful business opportunities while reinforcing our commitment to regional economic growth,” said Jessica Berecz, NC’s Associate Director, Workforce Development and Community Partnerships.
 
“I’m thrilled to see this partnership come to life with Niagara College,” said Rob Belchior, Small Business Consultant at the SCEC. “Our work at the SCEC is all about helping entrepreneurs find the tools, funding, and encouragement they need to succeed. Connecting those supports directly to students and alumni means more people will have the confidence and resources to turn their ideas into successful ventures.”

Gary Bruce, Manager of Community Employment Services speaking at the Entrepreneurial Launch Event held on August 19 at NC’s Benchmark Restaurant.


As part of this collaboration, students and alumni can access the Starter Company Plus program, which offers up to $5,000 in grant funding to start or expand a business, expert mentorship, and access to business training on topics such as planning, marketing, and financial management. The NC-supported program helps bridge the gap between academic education and real-world entrepreneurial success, with key networking opportunities built into the program.
 
To mark the start of the partnership, NC hosted the Entrepreneurial Launch Event on August 19 at Benchmark Restaurant, located at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake. The event highlighted the programs and resources available to students and alumni and showcased local entrepreneurial success stories. Attendees heard from nationally recognized Indigenous entrepreneur Jenn Harper, Founder and CEO of Cheekbone Beauty, as well as NC alumni and local business owners such as Brad Moore, President of Giant Shoe Creative, who have successfully leveraged grant funding to grow their ventures.

Keynote speaker Jenn Harper, Founder and CEO of Cheekbone Beauty, shared her entrepreneurial journey at the August 19 event.

About Community Employment Services
NC’s CES support job seekers in the Niagara region, connecting them with employers, training, and upskilling opportunities through Employment Ontario-funded programs. CES employment consultants assist a broad range of community members, including students, alumni, and local job seekers, by providing guidance on employment pathways and access to programs such as Starter Company Plus. CES also hosts workshops, outreach initiatives, and events to promote entrepreneurial thinking and highlight success stories of NC students and alumni who have launched businesses through these programs.
 
About the St. Catharines Enterprise Centre (SCEC)
The SCEC helps motivated entrepreneurs turn their business ideas into reality. Funded by Ontario’s Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, and the City of St. Catharines’ Economic Development and Tourism Services department, the Centre is part of a network of 47 Small Business Enterprise Centres. Located in downtown St. Catharines, SCEC provides guidance, resources, and mentorship to help small businesses start, scale, and succeed. The Centre proudly delivers Ontario’s Summer Company and Starter Company Plus programs.
 
About Niagara College
Niagara College has a full-time enrolment of more than 10,000 students from over 95 countries, who study in 130 diploma, certificate, and bachelor degree programs at specialized campuses in Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Niagara College is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world and is ranked Canada’s No. 1 research college. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.

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Program links:
St. Catharines Enterprise Centre
Starter Company Plus
Summer Company
 
Media inquiries:
Alyssa Milana
Communications Coordinator
905-329-0389
[email protected]
 

The post Niagara College and St. Catharines Enterprise Centre partner to support student and alumni entrepreneurs appeared first on Niagara College.

NC’s Chef Signature Series returns this October with celebrated Indigenous chef Zach Keeshig

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Niagara College’s (NC) Chef Signature Series will return this fall with a special dinner featuring celebrated Ontario chef Zach Keeshig. The event will take place October 2 at Benchmark Restaurant, located at NC’s Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Launched in 2014, the Chef Signature Series is a highlight of NC’s culinary programming. The series brings world renowned chefs to campus, providing students the opportunity to work alongside leading culinary talent and offering guests an immersive dining experience.

“Our Chef Signature Series is all about showcasing the artistry, innovation, and passion of exceptional chefs, while giving our students a once-in-a-lifetime educational experience,” said Craig Youdale, Dean of Culinary, Tourism and Beverage Studies. “Culinary students are at the heart of every event, working alongside leading chefs in the industry. These events not only expose them to innovative cuisine but also offer experiential learning that extends beyond the classroom.”

Born and raised in Owen Sound, Chef Keeshig is a member of the Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation at Cape Croker Reserve. He is the owner and head chef of Naagan, an intimate 17-seat restaurant specializing in Indigenous cuisine that has quickly earned national acclaim. Since opening in October 2024, Naagan has been recognized among Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants and ranked as one of the Top 10 New Restaurants in the country.

Chef Keeshig will bring his skills as a chef and storyteller to the October event, sharing his passion for Indigenous cuisine. He describes his cooking style as progressive Indigenous, combining Ojibwe food traditions with modern culinary techniques shaped by his experience in world-renowned and Michelin-starred kitchens. His dishes focus on foraging, sourcing locally, and using wild game hunted on Nawash territory.

Chef Zach Keeshig is the acclaimed Executive Chef and owner of Naagan, recognized among Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants and ranked as one of the Top 10 New Restaurants.

“My style of cooking is about showing my story of what Indigenous cuisine could be,” said Chef Keeshig. “It doesn’t always have to be wild rice, squash, and moose meat. We can make an ice cream using fresh sweetgrass we’ve grown, sweetened with maple syrup from Nawash. My inspiration comes from what the Ojibwe were eating along Georgian Bay, fish from the lake, foraged plants, game meats, and I try to represent that in my dishes.”

For Chef Keeshig, the highlight of the event will be the opportunity to work closely with NC students.

“I aim to teach students a little bit about what we’re doing in the restaurant with unique ingredients and cooking techniques,” he said. “What I’m looking forward to most is passing on knowledge about our culture, ingredients, and the techniques we use to produce a high-level dish. I also hope to inspire guests with this dinner to go out and find more Indigenous food and Indigenous chefs. There are very few, and they should be getting just as much attention for what they’re doing.”

Leading up to the event, Chef Keeshig will spend time at NC working with students and faculty on culinary preparations. He will take students out on campus grounds to explore natural growth and identify Indigenous plants that can be used in meals. Chef Keeshig also has been foraging and preparing throughout the summer to help shape the menu.

The October Chef Signature Series dinner will feature a multi-course tasting menu that reflects Indigenous food and culture in a modern way, paired with NC wine, beer, and cocktails during the reception. Menu details will be available closer to the event date.

Tickets are $160 plus tax per person and are available for purchase here. Seating is limited.

Following Chef Keeshig’s Chef Signature Series event, NC will continue the dinner series, featuring guest chefs:

  • Chef Vish Mayekar – Elem Restaurant, Vancouver – November 12
  • Chef Marc Lepine – Atelier Restaurant, Ottawa – January 26
  • Erika and Josh Karbelnik – Top Chef Canada Winner – February 12

For more on Chef Keeshig, visit www.naagan.ca or follow him on Instagram at @chefzachkeeshig.

Niagara College’s Culinary, Tourism and Beverage Studies division includes three distinct schools of study: Culinary Arts; Wine, Beer and Spirits; and Hospitality and Tourism. Together, they offer students unique hands-on learning experiences in state-of-the-art teaching facilities, including the award-winning Benchmark Restaurant, Teaching Winery, Teaching Brewery and Teaching Distillery.

Niagara College has a full-time enrolment of more than 10,000 students from over 95 countries, who study in 130 diploma, certificate and bachelor degree programs at specialized campuses in Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Niagara College is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world and is ranked Canada’s No. 1 research college. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.

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Media inquiries, please contact:

Alyssa Milana

Communications Coordinator

905-329-0389

[email protected] 

The post NC’s Chef Signature Series returns this October with celebrated Indigenous chef Zach Keeshig appeared first on Niagara College.

Trailblazer in sustainability: Niagara College earns WWF-Canada Living Campus Certification for second year

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The College has been recognized for its leadership in phragmites removal and community engagement on conservation.

Back-to-back recognition!

Niagara College is once again being celebrated as one of Canada’s top colleges for sustainability.

On September 4, World Wildlife Fund Canada (WWF-Canada) recognized NC — both the Welland Campus and Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake — for the second year in a row for its outstanding commitment to sustainability, conservation and the environment.

“We’re pleased to congratulate Niagara College on meeting the WWF-Canada Living Campus requirements to earn their 2025 certification,” said Kate Landry, Senior Manager, Community Action, WWF-Canada. “Their achievements that give wildlife a home on campus, increase the college community’s connectedness to nature, and support students in becoming environmental leaders in their careers demonstrate outstanding commitment to conservation. We applaud Niagara College for their leadership.”

NC is a partner with WWF-Canada through its Living Planet @ Campus program.

“Achieving this incredible milestone with our long-standing community partner, WWF-Canada, allows Niagara College to truly showcase the impressive work being done by students and employees across our campuses to support sustainability, ecological restoration and community engagement,” said Taryn Wilkinson, NC’s Manager of Sustainability.

Managing phragmites, Ontario’s worst invasive plant species

As a local leader in sustainability, NC has taken action to combat an invasive plant species that is wreaking havoc on ecological systems and infrastructure across the province and on campus.

According to Martin Smith, the program coordinator of the Ecosystem Restoration (ER) graduate certificate program, only a few isolated patches of phragmites could be found on campus in the early 2000s. By 2024, the pesky weed had spread to cover more than seven acres of fields, ponds and lagoons, overtaking native species vital to the health of the Niagara Escarpment ecosystem.

The College is midway through a three-year process to remove phragmites from its campuses — a project which they hope will inspire collective action.

“No one organization could hope to tackle this challenge alone,” said Pam Skinner, Senior Vice-President, College Operations. “Environmental sustainability is a key strategic priority for Niagara College, and in this way, we are taking proactive measures to safeguard campus biodiversity and infrastructure, which we hope will inspire others to follow suit.”

Many groups collaborated to combat the stubborn weed: NC’s Sustainability Ambassadors, Ecosystem Restoration students and faculty, the Grounds Working Group, and Planning, Sustainability & Capital Projects.

Students have been integral to the removal of dead plant materials.

“Being part of the phragmites removal project was a really meaningful experience for me,” said student Nitisha Patel. “Seeing the impact of invasive species firsthand and getting to be part of a real solution made the work feel urgent and empowering. It wasn’t just about pulling plants; it was about protecting biodiversity and helping our campus ecosystems thrive again.”

WWF-Canada commended the project for restoring 31,000 square metres of wetlands, improving access to nesting sites for snapping and painted turtles.

Marking a decade of community engagement

For ten years and counting, NC has brought together nature lovers and citizen scientists for their BioBlitz event at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

The 10th anniversary event saw record attendance with volunteers supporting an intense biological survey to catalogue campus biodiversity. More than 170 members of the college and local community logged observations of 168 species to create a baseline for researchers to monitor biodiversity over time.

The milestone Bioblitz followed the launch of NC’s Sustainability Plan, A Time for Action. Aligned with the plan, the College enhanced the event with more land-based learning opportunities to support the exchange of traditional ecological knowledge.

WWF-Canada highlighted the benefits of the annual event to participants who gain hands-on skills, learn about biodiversity, and network with each other.

WWF-Canada is committed to equitable and effective conservation actions that restore nature, reverse wildlife loss and fight climate change. We draw on scientific analysis and Indigenous guidance to ensure all our efforts connect to a single goal: a future where wildlife, nature and people thrive. For more information visit wwf.ca.

Niagara College has a full-time enrolment of more than 10,000 students from over 95 countries, who study in 130 diploma, certificate and bachelor degree programs at specialized campuses in Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Niagara College is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world and is consistently ranked among Canada’s top 10 colleges for research funding. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.

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2024 release: Niagara College earns WWF-Canada Living Campus Certification

Media inquiries, please contact:

Jessica Torok
Communications Consultant 
Niagara College
905-932-1520
[email protected]

Ellen Jakuboski
Specialist, Communications – Public Engagement 
WWF-Canada
647-264-7161 
[email protected]

The post Trailblazer in sustainability: Niagara College earns WWF-Canada Living Campus Certification for second year appeared first on Niagara College.

Niagara College welcomes students for Fall 2025 with record domestic enrolment, new programs and major campus growth initiatives

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Niagara College has officially kicked off its Fall 2025 term, welcoming thousands of new and returning students to both the Welland Campus and the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake for Orientation on September 2.

This year marks a milestone for domestic enrolment at NC, with the College proudly welcoming its largest cohort of domestic students since 2019, a sign of growing demand for NC’s career-focused programs. At the same time, NC continues to navigate the impacts of federal changes to Canada’s international student program, which have affected international enrolments across Canada’s postsecondary sector.

“Every September is a fresh start filled with energy, possibility and renewal,” said Niagara College President, Sean Kennedy. “Our commitment is to give every student the best possible start to their Niagara College journey by providing the supports they need to succeed both inside and outside the classroom.”

To help students transition into college life, NC will host a robust six-week schedule of Orientation activities across its campuses, including campus tours, a student services fair, networking opportunities, and social events aimed at fostering a sense of belonging and connection from day one.

This fall also marks the launch of two exciting new graduate certificate programs in the School of Business and Management – Project Management and Data Analytics – expanding the College’s academic offerings in areas of growing demand and preparing graduates with the skills to thrive in evolving industries. NC is also broadening access to its School of Wine, Beer & Spirits by offering part-time courses for non-program students.

As part of its long-term growth and renewal strategy, NC is also moving forward with major construction projects at the Welland Campus. Site preparation is already underway for a 75,000-square-foot Health Expansion, a transformative project that will enhance NC’s capacity in nursing and allied health programs. Once complete, the expansion will allow the College to train an additional 800 urgently needed skilled healthcare professionals. Later this fall, construction will also begin on a new student residence at the Welland Campus, further supporting enrolment growth and the student experience.

“As we begin this new academic year, we are focused on growth and innovation,” added President Kennedy. “By adding new programs and investing in new state-of-the-art labs and classrooms, we are ensuring that Niagara College students are not only ready for today’s opportunities but also equipped to lead in the workplaces and communities of tomorrow.”

Niagara College has a full-time enrolment of more than 10,000 students from over 95 countries, who study in 130 diploma, certificate and bachelor degree programs at specialized campuses in Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Niagara College is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world and is consistently ranked among Canada’s top 10 colleges for research funding. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.

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Media inquiries, please contact:

Courtney De Caire
Communications Consultant 
289-407-8298
[email protected]

The post Niagara College welcomes students for Fall 2025 with record domestic enrolment, new programs and major campus growth initiatives appeared first on Niagara College.

Experience the future of brewing at Niagara College’s Project Brew, August 8

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The future of beer is brewing at Niagara College.

Twelve student-crafted beers will be featured as Project Brew returns on Friday, August 8, with a new theme: CyBrewPunk 2099: The Future of Brewing. Hosted by the graduating class of NC’s Brewmaster and Brewery Operations Management program, the outdoor beer festival will take place from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the College’s Daniel J. Patterson Campus (135 Taylor Road, Niagara-on-the-Lake).

Guests aged 19 and older are invited to sample a wide range of unique brews, enjoy a food menu created by the College’s School of Culinary Arts students, and vote for their favourite beer to help crown the winner of the People’s Choice Award.

Project Brew beers will also be evaluated by a panel of judges from the College and industry, with the recipient of a $4,500 scholarship sponsored by Lallemand Brewing announced at the event.

“Project Brew offers a unique, hands-on learning experience that bridges the gap between theory and practice,” said Alyssa Janssen, Professor, Brewmaster and Brewery Operations Management program. “Students design this event from start to finish, including each of the beers that are available to taste. This class enhances skills in event planning, marketing, hospitality, and teamwork, all while fostering entrepreneurial spirit and real-world confidence.”

“Project Brew is our opportunity to bring everything we’ve learned over the past two years to life,” said class chair Chris Morgan. “Our class has worked together to create an event we’re truly proud of, from the beers and the branding to the guest experience.”

This term’s CyBrewPunk 2099 theme was inspired by a desire to try something new.

“We wanted to create a unique theme that hadn’t been done before,” said Morgan. “Past events have featured everything from original ideas to classics like Oktoberfest or German beer halls. This year, we decided to look ahead and imagine what brewing might look like in the future.”

Each student in the program was tasked with creating an original recipe and helping organize the event. Morgan, originally from Newfoundland, transitioned from a career in theatre, film, and tourism to pursue brewing, inspired by his experience working at craft breweries near his hometown. For Project Brew, he crafted Neufunder Weisse, a fruited Berliner Weisse brewed with raspberries, peaches and a hint of vanilla, creating a refreshing 4.0% ABV sour ale. The name, reflecting his Newfoundland roots and the traditional German beer style, also pays tribute to the beer that helped his team win this year’s NC Caps, Corks & Forks competition.

Project Brew guests will also enjoy a full menu curated by Chef Justin Downes in collaboration with the brewmaster class and handcrafted by students from the College’s School of Culinary Arts. Dishes include Korean Fried Chicken Sandwiches, Corn & Crab Fritters, and more. The full menu is available at: https://projectbrew.squarespace.com/menu

Tickets are $35 plus tax, which includes five beer tokens and a take-home beer glass. Group pricing is available for parties of six or more at $30 plus tax per person. Additional tokens will be available for $2 each.

Tickets are limited and can be purchased here:
https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/project-brew-cybrewpunk-2099-the-future-of-brewing-tickets-1424248829589

A portion of the proceeds from Project Brew will support the Matt Soos Memorial Scholarship named in honour of a Brewmaster program graduate who passed away shortly after graduation in 2015. The scholarship is awarded annually to a student winner of Project Brew in the winter semester.

Guests can meet this year’s student brewers and learn more at: https://projectbrew.squarespace.com

Niagara College has a full-time enrolment of more than 10,000 students from over 95 countries, who study in 130 diploma, certificate and bachelor degree programs at specialized campuses in Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Niagara College is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world and is ranked Canada’s No. 1 research college. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.

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Media inquiries, please contact:
Alyssa Milana
Communications Coordinator
905-329-0389
[email protected]

The post Experience the future of brewing at Niagara College’s Project Brew, August 8 appeared first on Niagara College.

Experience the future of brewing at Niagara College’s Project Brew, August 8

/in

The future of beer is brewing at Niagara College.

Twelve student-crafted beers will be featured as Project Brew returns on Friday, August 8, with a new theme: CyBrewPunk 2099: The Future of Brewing. Hosted by the graduating class of NC’s Brewmaster and Brewery Operations Management program, the outdoor beer festival will take place from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the College’s Daniel J. Patterson Campus (135 Taylor Road, Niagara-on-the-Lake).

Guests aged 19 and older are invited to sample a wide range of unique brews, enjoy a food menu created by the College’s School of Culinary Arts students, and vote for their favourite beer to help crown the winner of the People’s Choice Award.

Project Brew beers will also be evaluated by a panel of judges from the College and industry, with the recipient of a $4,500 scholarship sponsored by Lallemand Brewing announced at the event.

“Project Brew offers a unique, hands-on learning experience that bridges the gap between theory and practice,” said Alyssa Janssen, Professor, Brewmaster and Brewery Operations Management program. “Students design this event from start to finish, including each of the beers that are available to taste. This class enhances skills in event planning, marketing, hospitality, and teamwork, all while fostering entrepreneurial spirit and real-world confidence.”

“Project Brew is our opportunity to bring everything we’ve learned over the past two years to life,” said class chair Chris Morgan. “Our class has worked together to create an event we’re truly proud of, from the beers and the branding to the guest experience.”

This term’s CyBrewPunk 2099 theme was inspired by a desire to try something new.

“We wanted to create a unique theme that hadn’t been done before,” said Morgan. “Past events have featured everything from original ideas to classics like Oktoberfest or German beer halls. This year, we decided to look ahead and imagine what brewing might look like in the future.”

Each student in the program was tasked with creating an original recipe and helping organize the event. Morgan, originally from Newfoundland, transitioned from a career in theatre, film, and tourism to pursue brewing, inspired by his experience working at craft breweries near his hometown. For Project Brew, he crafted Neufunder Weisse, a fruited Berliner Weisse brewed with raspberries, peaches and a hint of vanilla, creating a refreshing 4.0% ABV sour ale. The name, reflecting his Newfoundland roots and the traditional German beer style, also pays tribute to the beer that helped his team win this year’s NC Caps, Corks & Forks competition.

Project Brew guests will also enjoy a full menu curated by Chef Justin Downes in collaboration with the brewmaster class and handcrafted by students from the College’s School of Culinary Arts. Dishes include Korean Fried Chicken Sandwiches, Corn & Crab Fritters, and more. The full menu is available at: https://projectbrew.squarespace.com/menu

Tickets are $35 plus tax, which includes five beer tokens and a take-home beer glass. Group pricing is available for parties of six or more at $30 plus tax per person. Additional tokens will be available for $2 each.

Tickets are limited and can be purchased here:
https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/project-brew-cybrewpunk-2099-the-future-of-brewing-tickets-1424248829589

A portion of the proceeds from Project Brew will support the Matt Soos Memorial Scholarship named in honour of a Brewmaster program graduate who passed away shortly after graduation in 2015. The scholarship is awarded annually to a student winner of Project Brew in the winter semester.

Guests can meet this year’s student brewers and learn more at: https://projectbrew.squarespace.com

Niagara College has a full-time enrolment of more than 10,000 students from over 95 countries, who study in 130 diploma, certificate and bachelor degree programs at specialized campuses in Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Niagara College is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world and is ranked Canada’s No. 1 research college. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.

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Media inquiries, please contact:
Alyssa Milana
Communications Coordinator
905-329-0389
[email protected]

The post Experience the future of brewing at Niagara College’s Project Brew, August 8 appeared first on Niagara College.

Niagara College earns third Technology Access Centre with federal funding investment

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Canadian small- and medium-sized agricultural and environmental businesses will benefit from new research and innovation funding and supports at Niagara College’s Horticultural and Environmental Sciences Innovation Centre (HESIC).

Niagara College’s Research and Innovation division has been granted its third Technology Access Centre (TAC) with an investment of $1.75 million over five years, from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), expanding its capacity to support industry innovation across Ontario and beyond.

The announcement was made today by the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, and the Honourable Marjorie Michel, Minister of Health, as part of an overall $29.8 million investment from NSERC’s College and Community Innovation program.

“These researchers aren’t just imagining the future—they’re building it,” noted Joly. “Their work covers topics such as pandemic readiness and cutting-edge technology, and it reflects the Government of Canada’s commitment to driving innovation, strengthening the economy and tackling the challenges that matter most to Canadians.”

Technology Access Centres (TACs) are specialized applied research and innovation hubs embedded within Canadian colleges and cégeps. Funded by NSERC, TACs are designed to provide small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with access to state-of-the-art facilities, expert research staff, and technical services to help solve business challenges, accelerate product development, and improve processes. TACs support industry through fee-for-service, applied research projects, and innovation partnerships, enabling companies to reduce risk, increase innovation capacity, and bring products to market faster.

With this investment, the Horticultural and Environmental Sciences Innovation Centre (HESIC) joins Niagara College’s two other TACs – the Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (WAMIC) and the Food and Beverage Innovation Centre (FBIC) – as part of a prestigious national network of applied research centres.

Researchers in the Horticultural and Environmental Sciences Innovation Centre conduct post-harvest laboratory analysis.

HESIC provides applied research and technical services to companies innovating in the environmental and horticultural sectors, including controlled environment agriculture (CEA), greenhouse production, plant health and integrated pest management, genomics, cannabis cultivation and breeding, and sustainable growing practices. The TAC designation is accompanied by five years of renewable funding from NSERC.

“Securing this TAC designation for HESIC reflects the trust and recognition that NSERC places in our ability to support SMEs through applied research,” said Marc Nantel, PhD, vice-president, Research, Innovation and Strategic Enterprises at Niagara College. “Our team will now be able to scale our support to more businesses working on sustainable agriculture, agri-tech, and environmental solutions. We’re proud to further our mission of helping Canadian companies innovate and thrive.” 

With the support of TAC funding, HESIC will broaden its impact by offering expanded CEA services, including integrated pest management strategies, variety testing, third-party validation, and commercialization-focused R&D.

“Our new specialized research greenhouse and plant growth facility is purpose-built to help businesses test, refine, and scale their innovations in real-world conditions,” said Kimberley Cathline, Associate Director, HESIC. “With precision-controlled growing bays, postharvest and analytical labs, advanced genomics tools, and a forthcoming Health Canada-licensed cannabis cultivation space, we can support a wide range of applied research needs. We also work with companies on soil and media amendments, fertilizer alternatives, and agri-waste diversion strategies—helping them reduce environmental impact while boosting productivity and market readiness.”  

As a TAC, HESIC will offer its expertise to SMEs that are actively developing innovative, science-based solutions aimed at improving environmental sustainability and efficiency. Based at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake, HESIC focuses on advancing new technologies and approaches through applied research collaborations, having partnered with hundreds of industry collaborators over the years.

Companies interested in exploring project opportunities with HESIC are encouraged to visit ncinnovation.ca/contact or contact David DiPietro, Manager, Business Development, at [email protected] to discuss their innovation goals and determine eligibility for support through the TAC.

NC’s award-winning Research and Innovation division administers research funding through investments from various regional, provincial, and federal agencies. Students and graduates are hired to work alongside faculty and staff researchers to assist industry partners’ leap forward in the marketplace. Students come from a variety of the College’s programs, such as the Horticultural Technician Program, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Culinary Innovation and Food Technology, Business Administration – Marketing, and Computer Programmer.

Niagara College has a full-time enrolment of close to 11,000 students from over 95 countries, who study in 130 diploma, certificate and bachelor degree programs at specialized campuses in Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Niagara College is also involved in educational projects and partnerships worldwide and is consistently ranked among Canada’s top 10 colleges for research funding. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.

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Media inquiries, please contact:

Jessica Torok
Communications Consultant
[email protected]
905-932-1520

The post Niagara College earns third Technology Access Centre with federal funding investment appeared first on Niagara College.

Niagara College earns third Technology Access Centre with federal funding investment

/in

Canadian small- and medium-sized agricultural and environmental businesses will benefit from new research and innovation funding and supports at Niagara College’s Horticultural and Environmental Sciences Innovation Centre (HESIC).

Niagara College’s Research and Innovation division has been granted its third Technology Access Centre (TAC) with an investment of $1.75 million over five years, from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), expanding its capacity to support industry innovation across Ontario and beyond.

The announcement was made today by the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, and the Honourable Marjorie Michel, Minister of Health, as part of an overall $29.8 million investment from NSERC’s College and Community Innovation program.

“These researchers aren’t just imagining the future—they’re building it,” noted Joly. “Their work covers topics such as pandemic readiness and cutting-edge technology, and it reflects the Government of Canada’s commitment to driving innovation, strengthening the economy and tackling the challenges that matter most to Canadians.”

Technology Access Centres (TACs) are specialized applied research and innovation hubs embedded within Canadian colleges and cégeps. Funded by NSERC, TACs are designed to provide small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with access to state-of-the-art facilities, expert research staff, and technical services to help solve business challenges, accelerate product development, and improve processes. TACs support industry through fee-for-service, applied research projects, and innovation partnerships, enabling companies to reduce risk, increase innovation capacity, and bring products to market faster.

With this investment, the Horticultural and Environmental Sciences Innovation Centre (HESIC) joins Niagara College’s two other TACs – the Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (WAMIC) and the Food and Beverage Innovation Centre (FBIC) – as part of a prestigious national network of applied research centres.

Researchers in the Horticultural and Environmental Sciences Innovation Centre conduct post-harvest laboratory analysis.

HESIC provides applied research and technical services to companies innovating in the environmental and horticultural sectors, including controlled environment agriculture (CEA), greenhouse production, plant health and integrated pest management, genomics, cannabis cultivation and breeding, and sustainable growing practices. The TAC designation is accompanied by five years of renewable funding from NSERC.

“Securing this TAC designation for HESIC reflects the trust and recognition that NSERC places in our ability to support SMEs through applied research,” said Marc Nantel, PhD, vice-president, Research, Innovation and Strategic Enterprises at Niagara College. “Our team will now be able to scale our support to more businesses working on sustainable agriculture, agri-tech, and environmental solutions. We’re proud to further our mission of helping Canadian companies innovate and thrive.” 

With the support of TAC funding, HESIC will broaden its impact by offering expanded CEA services, including integrated pest management strategies, variety testing, third-party validation, and commercialization-focused R&D.

“Our new specialized research greenhouse and plant growth facility is purpose-built to help businesses test, refine, and scale their innovations in real-world conditions,” said Kimberley Cathline, Associate Director, HESIC. “With precision-controlled growing bays, postharvest and analytical labs, advanced genomics tools, and a forthcoming Health Canada-licensed cannabis cultivation space, we can support a wide range of applied research needs. We also work with companies on soil and media amendments, fertilizer alternatives, and agri-waste diversion strategies—helping them reduce environmental impact while boosting productivity and market readiness.”  

As a TAC, HESIC will offer its expertise to SMEs that are actively developing innovative, science-based solutions aimed at improving environmental sustainability and efficiency. Based at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake, HESIC focuses on advancing new technologies and approaches through applied research collaborations, having partnered with hundreds of industry collaborators over the years.

Companies interested in exploring project opportunities with HESIC are encouraged to visit ncinnovation.ca/contact or contact David DiPietro, Manager, Business Development, at [email protected] to discuss their innovation goals and determine eligibility for support through the TAC.

NC’s award-winning Research and Innovation division administers research funding through investments from various regional, provincial, and federal agencies. Students and graduates are hired to work alongside faculty and staff researchers to assist industry partners’ leap forward in the marketplace. Students come from a variety of the College’s programs, such as the Horticultural Technician Program, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Culinary Innovation and Food Technology, Business Administration – Marketing, and Computer Programmer.

Niagara College has a full-time enrolment of close to 11,000 students from over 95 countries, who study in 130 diploma, certificate and bachelor degree programs at specialized campuses in Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Niagara College is also involved in educational projects and partnerships worldwide and is consistently ranked among Canada’s top 10 colleges for research funding. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.

-30-

Media inquiries, please contact:

Jessica Torok
Communications Consultant
[email protected]
905-932-1520

The post Niagara College earns third Technology Access Centre with federal funding investment appeared first on Niagara College.

Niagara College students cultivate vegetable garden to combat food insecurity

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Students at Niagara College are digging into the issue of food insecurity by establishing a community vegetable garden at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Spearheaded by Robert Pastirik, a 2025 graduate of the Horticultural Technician program, the initiative is supported by the College’s Health, Wellness and Accessibility Services (HWAS) and the Teaching Greenhouse. The garden is designed to provide fresh produce for students facing food insecurity throughout the summer months.

“This is a student-led initiative, grown by students, for students,” said Trina Washington, Counsellor with Health, Wellness and Accessibility Services. “Rob recognized the growing need among students struggling with food insecurity and worked collaboratively with HWAS to help expand the initiative into a sustainable program for years to come.”

Jennifer Laverty, Horticulture Technician with the School of Environment and Horticulture, instructs a group of volunteers on the proper planting method for vegetables.

“I’ve always believed in the power of growing your own food,” said Pastirik. “Being able to combine what I’ve learned in the Horticultural Technician program with something that directly supports my peers has been incredibly rewarding.”

Located near the Wine Visitor + Education Centre, the garden features 12 newly installed raised planter beds generously donated by Conquest Steel. The project has also benefited from community support, with compost donated by Walker Industries and seeds contributed by West Coast Seeds.

“Our hope is that students will access this garden by taking what they need, while also giving back by helping to weed, water, and tend to the garden,” said Jennifer Laverty, Horticulture Technician with the School of Environment and Horticulture. “This initiative not only supports food security but may also inspire students to grow their own food and become more mindful of where their food comes from.”

Currently, the garden is producing a variety of fruits and vegetables, including beans, onions, cucumbers, tomatoes, peas, and a range of herbs.

This is just one of the student-led gardens making a difference to people in Niagara. For three years, the College, in collaboration with United Way, has grown produce at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake for community members in need.

Looking ahead, HWAS and its partners hope to harvest multiple crops per year to help supply produce for the Rise and Shine breakfast program – an initiative led by the Niagara College Student Administrative Council (NCSAC) that offers free, healthy breakfasts to students three times a week.

All Niagara College students are encouraged to visit the garden as often as needed to access fresh produce, contribute to its care, and become part of a growing culture of food sustainability on campus.

Niagara College has a full-time enrolment of more than 10,000 students from over 95 countries, who study in 130 diploma, certificate and bachelor degree programs at specialized campuses in Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Niagara College is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world and is ranked Canada’s No. 1 research college. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.

-30-


Media inquiries, please contact:

Courtney De Caire
Communications Consultant
289-407-8298
[email protected]

The post Niagara College students cultivate vegetable garden to combat food insecurity appeared first on Niagara College.

Niagara College students cultivate vegetable garden to combat food insecurity

/in

Students at Niagara College are digging into the issue of food insecurity by establishing a community vegetable garden at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Spearheaded by Robert Pastirik, a 2025 graduate of the Horticultural Technician program, the initiative is supported by the College’s Health, Wellness and Accessibility Services (HWAS) and the Teaching Greenhouse. The garden is designed to provide fresh produce for students facing food insecurity throughout the summer months.

“This is a student-led initiative, grown by students, for students,” said Trina Washington, Counsellor with Health, Wellness and Accessibility Services. “Rob recognized the growing need among students struggling with food insecurity and worked collaboratively with HWAS to help expand the initiative into a sustainable program for years to come.”

Jennifer Laverty, Horticulture Technician with the School of Environment and Horticulture, instructs a group of volunteers on the proper planting method for vegetables.

“I’ve always believed in the power of growing your own food,” said Pastirik. “Being able to combine what I’ve learned in the Horticultural Technician program with something that directly supports my peers has been incredibly rewarding.”

Located near the Wine Visitor + Education Centre, the garden features 12 newly installed raised planter beds generously donated by Conquest Steel. The project has also benefited from community support, with compost donated by Walker Industries and seeds contributed by West Coast Seeds.

“Our hope is that students will access this garden by taking what they need, while also giving back by helping to weed, water, and tend to the garden,” said Jennifer Laverty, Horticulture Technician with the School of Environment and Horticulture. “This initiative not only supports food security but may also inspire students to grow their own food and become more mindful of where their food comes from.”

Currently, the garden is producing a variety of fruits and vegetables, including beans, onions, cucumbers, tomatoes, peas, and a range of herbs.

This is just one of the student-led gardens making a difference to people in Niagara. For three years, the College, in collaboration with United Way, has grown produce at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake for community members in need.

Looking ahead, HWAS and its partners hope to harvest multiple crops per year to help supply produce for the Rise and Shine breakfast program – an initiative led by the Niagara College Student Administrative Council (NCSAC) that offers free, healthy breakfasts to students three times a week.

All Niagara College students are encouraged to visit the garden as often as needed to access fresh produce, contribute to its care, and become part of a growing culture of food sustainability on campus.

Niagara College has a full-time enrolment of more than 10,000 students from over 95 countries, who study in 130 diploma, certificate and bachelor degree programs at specialized campuses in Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Niagara College is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world and is ranked Canada’s No. 1 research college. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.

-30-


Media inquiries, please contact:

Courtney De Caire
Communications Consultant
289-407-8298
[email protected]

The post Niagara College students cultivate vegetable garden to combat food insecurity appeared first on Niagara College.