Since its inception in 2014, the Kindred Credit Union Centre for Peace Advancement (CPA) has supported 17 new peace-related initiatives and organizations. This support includes access to a desk in the Frank and Helen Epp Peace Incubator, training opportunities, seed funding, and mentorship.
It has become clear that making connections with the right mentors is an absolutely crucial ingredient in the success of a peace start-up, whether it is providing strategic advice, introducing new community partners, or helping to engage government.
Over the past year, the CPA launched a Mentorship Circle, resourced by the Barry Bauman Mentorship Fund, in order to deepen and expand this level of support. Both the CPA and the Epp Peace Incubator participants have been thrilled with the contributions that the initial six mentors—all Grebel alumni—have made. “As a small entrepreneurial team, it’s great to have a group of seasoned experts in your corner,” shared Katie Gingerich, Founder and Director of The Ripple Effect Education.