(L-R) Anthony Theriault, Eniola Osabiya, Ben Isakov, and Matthew Larson
Unlocking Innovation with the Startup Coach Program
Ben Isakov's impact on turning student entrepreneurial ideas into real ventures
In celebration of Entrepreneurship and Innovation Thinking Month, the Stu Clark Centre for Entrepreneurship remains a hub where business ideas come to life and students from across the University of Manitoba ignite their entrepreneurial mindsets.
At the heart of this thriving community is the Startup Coach Program, led by Ben Isakov, whose supportive approach and wealth of experience have guided more than 250 students this past year alone. For many, the program isn’t just about launching a business; it’s about finding clarity, confidence, and a sense of community.
The stories of students like Eniola Osabiya, who achieved an acquisition for this company, CreditCliq, Anthony Theriault, Co-Founder of Eleven59, and Matthew Larson of Larson Advertising illustrate the profound and personal impact Ben Isakov has on turning student business ideas into thriving ventures.
Eniola Osabiya: Co-Founder of CreditCliq
For Eniola Osabiya, a Computer Science Honours student in the Faculty of Science, entrepreneurship began with a challenge: how could international students use their existing credit history when applying for loans abroad?
That question gave rise to CreditCliq, a venture designed to bridge global credit systems. Earlier this year, CreditCliq reached an exciting milestone: an acquisition. But before that success, Eniola found essential support through the Startup Coach Program.
“The Startup Coach reminded me that you’re not building your venture alone, your part of a community,” Eniola shared.
Through guidance from Ben Isakov, Eniola gained not only introductions to the entrepreneurial ecosystem but also the clarity needed to move forward strategically.
“The biggest thing I’ve learned from Ben is a sense of clarity,” he explained. “I’m someone who tends to jump ahead, but Ben helped me slow down, evaluate opportunities, and keep moving forward.”
For Eniola, the program provided more than just advice; it offered a sense of belonging and perspective at a critical stage of growth.
Anthony Theriault: Co-Founder of Eleven59
Anthony Theriault, a student studying Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Management Information Systems at the Asper School of Business, developed Eleven59. This app helps students stay on top of deadlines and key academic dates.
Eleven59 emerged from the Stu Clark Centre for Entrepreneurship ENTR Pitch Competition. Anthony, who started his first business, Kingdom Cards, at just fourteen, always knew he was destined to be an entrepreneur, but he had his moments of doubt.
“A common struggle for entrepreneurs is knowing what to do next and dealing with imposter syndrome,” Anthony said. “Connecting with Ben gave us a leg up. He’s always in your corner, helping you focus and take the next step.”
Having started his first venture at just fourteen, Anthony understood the excitement and uncertainty that came with building something new. The Startup Coach Program provided not only business guidance but also encouragement, the kind that keeps an idea alive when challenges feel overwhelming.
“Ben’s feedback helped us refine Eleven59 and move from concept to reality,” Anthony added. “It’s been an incredible resource.”
Matthew Larson: Founder of Larson Advertising
For Matthew Larson, a student at the Asper School of Business, entrepreneurship has always come naturally. From creating comic books in elementary school to launching small side hustles, he’s been driven by curiosity and creativity from an early age.
Today, Matthew runs Larson Advertising, a venture that turns reusable grocery bags into advertising opportunities for local businesses, an idea that blends innovation with sustainability.
After experimenting with vending machines and other projects, Matthew turned to Ben Isakov, the Startup Coach, to help refine his ideas and take confident action.
“Ben has helped me in numerous ways,” Matthew said. “I’ve always had a lot of ideas but was afraid to put myself out there. He encouraged me to take that step to act on my ideas and see where they lead.”
Looking back, Matthew’s only wish is that he had joined the program sooner.
“If I could advise my younger self, I’d say just do it,” he reflected. “Don’t be afraid to take the first step — start the business, start the idea, and learn as you go.”
From combating self-doubt to achieving major business milestones, the support provided through the Startup Coach Program has proven invaluable to students across campus, from the Asper School of Business to the Faculty of Science.
Whether you’re just starting to explore entrepreneurship, have an idea in progress, or are ready to grow your existing venture, the Startup Coach Program is available at any step of your entrepreneurial journey.
Learn more about the Startup Coach Program and other opportunities available through the Stu Clark Centre for Entrepreneurship.