Lunch & Learn: Unlock Funding and Innovation Pathways with OVIN & OCI
About Event
The automotive and mobility landscape is evolving rapidly, with electrification, automation, and advanced technologies redefining how Ontario moves. Through the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN), Ontario is leading this transformation by supporting companies developing next-generation mobility solutions.
Join YSpace & the BEA for a Lunch & Learn with OVIN & and the Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI) on November 28, 2025, featuring John George, Patrick Farrer, Fredrik Andersson, and Igor Tadeu de Cunha. These experts will share insights on how startups and SMEs can leverage OVIN and OCI programs to fund, test, and scale their innovations.
This in-person session will provide a clear understanding of OVIN’s funding opportunities, including the R&D Partnership Fund (up to $1 million in funding), the Incubator Program that connects SMEs with large industry partners, and the QEW Innovation Corridor, which allows companies to pilot their technologies on a live highway in partnership with the Ministry of Transportation.
Attendees will also gain an overview of OCI’s broader programs that support commercialization, industry collaboration, and talent development across all sectors. The presentations will be followed by an open networking lunch, where participants can connect directly with OVIN representatives and other innovators.
Why Attend?
For entrepreneurs, innovators, and startups in the mobility and technology sectors, this Lunch & Learn offers direct access to Ontario’s leading innovation networks and funding experts.
Explore OVIN’s Programs – Learn about initiatives like the R&D Partnership Fund, QEW Innovation Corridor, and Incubator Program.
Understand OCI Opportunities – Discover additional programs supporting research, commercialization, and scale-up beyond mobility.
Gain Actionable Insights – Hear directly from OVIN and OCI program leads on eligibility, timelines, and how to strengthen your application.
Network with Experts – Meet the OVIN and OCI teams and connect with fellow innovators during the lunch session.
Accelerate Your Growth – Identify key resources to develop, test, and commercialize new technologies in Ontario.
About the Speakers
John George
Sector Manager, Automotive and Mobility – Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN)
John George leads the R&D funding programs within OVIN, helping companies access collaborative opportunities and scale mobility technologies. With prior experience as a Powertrain Engineer at McLaren Engineering, he brings deep expertise in electric vehicle systems, program management, and innovation strategy. John holds an M.Eng in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Waterloo and is a certified Professional Engineer (P.Eng) and Project Management Professional (PMP).
Patrick Farrer
Manager, OVIN Incubators – Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN)
Patrick Farrer manages the OVIN Incubators Program, helping SMEs collaborate with large industry partners to co-develop and integrate emerging automotive technologies. Previously, he served as a Business Development Manager at OCI and an OVIN Sector Manager for Southwestern Ontario, building strong partnerships and pathways for innovation growth.
Fredrik Andersson
Regional Innovation Lead – Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN)
Fredrik Andersson oversees the QEW Innovation Corridor Program, a piloting initiative funded by the Ministry of Transportation that enables SMEs to test their technologies in real-world environments. Each participant can access up to $150,000 in funding to validate and demonstrate their mobility solutions on the QEW.
Igor Tadeu de Cunha
Business Development and Commercialization Manager – Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI)
Igor Cunha represents OCI’s broader innovation programs, helping companies outside the mobility space access funding and partnership opportunities. As OCI’s main contact for the York Region, he works closely with YSpace and regional founders to advance research, commercialization, and business growth across sectors.
About OVIN
The Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN) drives innovation in connected, autonomous, electric, and low-carbon vehicle technologies, positioning Ontario as a global leader in the future of mobility. By supporting R&D, commercialization, and talent development, OVIN empowers companies to bring their technologies to market while advancing smart mobility solutions across the province.
About OCI
The Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI) acts as a bridge between industry and academia, fostering the development, commercialization, and adoption of advanced technologies. Through investments, partnerships, and training programs, OCI helps high-potential SMEs accelerate their innovation journey, driving economic growth and job creation across Ontario.
About YSpace
YSpace is York University’s pan-university entrepreneurship and innovation hub supporting startups and entrepreneurs from a variety of sectors and communities. Our programming spans across scaling innovative technologies through customer and investor capital to scaling agri-food businesses into mass retail to diversity-focused initiatives like **ELLA powered by Desjardins** for women-led businesses and Black Entrepreneurship Alliance (BEA) for Black-led businesses. Additionally with our Start-Up Visa program, we are building a robust ecosystem, driving positive change and empowering entrepreneurs to shape the future. We are also home to two physical hubs in the City of Markham and the Town of Georgina.