Carrying the Torch: A Legacy Gift from LAUNCH Waterloo

It is with profound gratitude that we share the news that LAUNCH Waterloo will continue its legacy of advancing recreational education for kids and youth through a donation to the Business and Education Partnership of Waterloo Region. Founded in 2018, LAUNCH was a cornerstone of our community, sparking curiosity and providing world-class STEAM resources to students from Kindergarten through Grade 12.

“I’m delighted that LAUNCH’s legacy can live on at BEP. I’m so grateful for the broad community support we received over the years and seeing the next generation of youth continuing to improve their skills and build for their futures warms my heart.” - Tobi Day-Hamilton, Co-Founder, LAUNCH Waterloo

The success of LAUNCH Waterloo’s programs was made possible through the visionary support of their primary sponsors: HIP Developments, Google, and Bosch. We want to recognize these organizations and all their supporters for their commitment to fostering a culture of technical literacy and creativity in our region.  

Our Commitment to the Future 

We are deeply honoured that LAUNCH Waterloo has chosen the Business Education Partnership (BEP) as a steward of its remaining funds.

“It was joyful helping to steer the direction and vision of LAUNCH and I want to acknowledge the incredible impact the program had on youth participants in Waterloo Region. This gift to the BEP will keep the LAUNCH legacy alive through innovative programs that invest in young innovators in our community”, says Scott Higgins, President of HIP Developments and Board Chair of the BEP. “We know that funding youth programs isn’t charity—it’s strategy. Communities that invest in young people now are the ones that thrive later. We need more of that thinking, and more actual investment to follow, in Waterloo Region”, says Higgins. 

While we are currently in the early stages of determining exactly how these resources will be integrated, our goal is clear: to ensure the vision of LAUNCH Waterloo continues to inspire local youth. We are committed to using this generous gift to bridge the gap between education and industry, keeping the spirit of innovation alive through our programs.

We thank the entire LAUNCH team for their years of service and for trusting us with their legacy.