The blog at VeloCity, the entrepreneurship, living-learning residence at Waterloo, had a post about a possible centre for student innovation last week.

But imagine the possibilities if we were able to give the entire student community the support and guidance needed to make their ideas a reality. That’s why we want to establish the Centre for Student Innovation (CSI) – a place dedicated exclusively to student innovators and entrepreneurs to work and interact with each other and with professional mentors, advisors and entrepreneurs.
— Help us establish the “Centre for Student Innovation” at UW VeloCity Blog 2 Dec 2009

The initials are unfortunately like a television program, but it could otherwise be a good idea. A lot depends on what they envision. Often university programs can have a worthwhile intent but poor implementation.

They asked for e-mails of support. I sent this in:

E-mail of support for Centre for Student Innovation
I think it is vital for Waterloo to support student enterprise and innovation. There is great potential in the student body for initiatives that create incredible value for the university through educational experiences, entrepreneurial reputation, and student efficacy. Students need support and resources to implement and realize their good ideas. The University of Waterloo would benefit from offering that support.

It is also good that the focus will be focused more broadly than just profit-making ventures like UW Innovate Inc. was.

UW Innovate Inc., described as “a novel approach to business pre-incubation within a university setting,” seeks to encourage and nurture the entrepreneurial activities within the UW community.
— Innovate Inc. has official opening UW News 2 Apr 2002