Special thanks to our conference sponsors

University of Toronto, Canada's leading research university, is committed to a program of innovation and incubation to commercialize the more than $2 million spent daily on research. The recently launched information technology incubator, The Exceler@tor, is at the hub of this commitment, working in partnership with the Innovations Foundation, Rotman School of Management, Bell University Labs, Centre for Innovation and Law, Capital Markets Institute and many faculties. www.utoronto.ca, www.excelerator.ca and www.innovationsfoundation.utoronto.ca.

Chinese Business Incubator Association is a nonprofit organization assisted by the Small and Medium Enterprise Administration to facilitate the efficiency of incubator centers so that both the incubator centers and their clients can successfully reach their individual goals. Visit www.cbia.org.tw/cbia/who_are_we.asp.

Japan Association of New Business Incubation Organizations (JANBO) works to create businesses for regional economic self-sufficiency and to reinvigorate local communities and the Japanese economy. JANBO, founded in 1999, is vigorously expanding its activities as Japan's first nationwide network of incubation organizations. Visit www.janbo.gr.jp.

The Kauffman Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership offers practical tools to help people start and grow their businesses. Resources include training, templates, CD-ROM's, audio and videotapes, books and a comprehensive search engine of the best information for entrepreneurs at www.entreworld.org.


Turnstone, a Steelcase company, creates furniture for people at work, no matter where or how they work. Steelcase builds furniture based on the principles of smart design and good value. Products include desks, storage, seating and accessories. Most are available for delivery in less than three weeks. Visit www.turnstonefurniture.com.

Advanced Technology Program (ATP) bridges the gap between the research lab and the marketplace, stimulating prosperity through innovation. As part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, ATP is changing the way industry approaches research and development. Visit www.atp.nist.gov.

LocalFund Inc. Your clients are seeking capital. Angel investors are seeking start-ups. Help your clients access capital by establishing your own Internet-based, entrepreneur-investor network. Stop by our exhibit and find out how easy it is, or visit us at www.localfund.com.

IBM can help emerging companies build a secure information technology infrastructure to support e-business applications. NBIA members enjoy special discounts on hundreds of IBM PC products and services. www.ibm.com/smallbusiness/nbia.

incubator.com, in partnership with the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Incubator. The only global, no-cost Web portal for entrepreneurs, venture capital firms and incubators — presented by a global leader in the incubator field. www.incubator.com

MBA GlobalNet is a leading worldwide provider of MBA managerial and executive talent. Through our Consulting Partners group, we handpick seasoned executives who can meet your talent needs. www.MBAGlobalNet.com.


The Government of Ontario's Ministry of Energy, Science and Technology is committed to building a recession-proof economy through investment in innovation, research and new technology, and in creating a competitive, economically and environmentally sustainable energy sector. www.est.gov.on.ca.

If you are interested in joining these sponsors of Explore Your World, Enrich Your Community, visit our Be a Sponsor or Exhibitor page, or contact Linda Shafer, NBIA director of development and strategic alliances, at lshafer@nbia.org.