Enterprise Cayman has teamed up with Toronto Metropolitan University’s startup incubator DMZ to create a programme for business founders in Cayman.
Launch Labs Incubator is a 14-week programme that will help entrepreneurs move their project from the concept stage to being investor-ready. Most of the course will be virtual and delivered by DMZ, which has seen companies in its portfolio raise more than US$3 billion. Successful applicants to the programme will be able to connect to DMZ’s global network of founders.
But there will also be an in-person component to the course that will allow Cayman-based founders to access co-working space in Cayman Enterprise City, meet fellow founders on the islands and pitch to angel investors.
“I think this is a very important step,” said Eustache Placide, a professor at UCCI and an entrepreneur with multiple tech ventures. “One of the biggest challenges locally is not a lack of ideas – it is access to structure, support and global networks.”
He added, “From my experience as a founder, a programme like this can significantly shorten the learning curve. Instead of relying on trial and error, founders gain access to structured frameworks, mentorship and guidance.”
Programme partnership
“Partnering with DMZ strengthens our commitment to ensuring Caymanians and residents have greater access to the tools, networks and support needed to build and scale successful businesses,” said Charlie Kirkconnell, CEO of Cayman Enterprise City, which runs Enterprise Cayman as a workforce non-profit.
“DMZ will lead delivery of the virtual incubator through its proven methodology, while Enterprise Cayman anchors the experience locally through Cayman-based touchpoints, connecting founders to local support and ensuring the programme translates into meaningful, on-the-ground progress for Cayman-based entrepreneurs,” said Kirkconnell, who is also the chairman of Enterprise Cayman.
The partnership is also a sign of how Cayman’s burgeoning tech scene is gaining global attention. “The Cayman Islands is at a really exciting inflection point,” said Sherif El Tawil, senior director of programmes and global operations at DMZ. “With tech companies growing rapidly and strong economic momentum across sectors like finance and digital services, the foundation for a thriving startup ecosystem is clearly there.”
“We’re proud to partner with Enterprise Cayman to bring DMZ’s global network and proven incubator model to local founders, helping them build bold, scalable companies right from home while connecting them to opportunities around the world,” said El Tawil.
Launch Labs Incubator applications cost $100, with a deadline of 30 June. Organisers say anyone “with a strong and viable business idea may apply”.
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