spark centre: ignite start-up bootcamp competition

The assignment

In early winter 2013, Spark Centre (Durham Region’s brand-new Regional Innovation Centre) launched Ignite, a start-up bootcamp and pitch competition for local entrepreneurs. They needed to get the word out, recruit competitors and ultimately increase the profile of the organization.

the action

I joined the Spark team for six months to lead the public relations efforts for Ignite. My portfolio included promotions, regional media relations, photo and video documentation, and, of course, social media.

“Erin has the strategic and operational acumen to see the forest and the trees, making her invaluable to an organization. Erin can manage a large amount of work and get it done in a short period of time, and she is able to build trusted partnerships and gain commitment to initiatives and projects.

I worked closely with Erin on Spark Centre’s Ignite 2013, she was an essential and primary component to its success. She transformed event activities into magical news and public awareness, and she drove critical elements to a success level well beyond expectation.

Erin is a humble superstar…and I hope we work together again!” – Dennis Croft, Executive Director, Spark Centre