Contact us

Loren Oschipok

Dr. Loren Oschipok is the Director of the Partnerships, Knowledge Mobilization & Innovation office at the University of Manitoba, where he plays a key role in identifying and evaluating early-stage technologies and helping launch academic innovations out of the University environment. With a Ph.D. from the University of British Columbia (UBC) where his thesis focused on nervous system regeneration after traumatic injuries, Loren brings to the table 25 years of experience as both an academic researcher and technology transfer specialist.  An authentic communicator and project manager, his career is marked by a passion for bridging the gap between academic innovations and their practical applications in our communities.  

loren.oschipok@umanitoba.ca
431-777-0145

Andrew Tse

Dr. Andrew Tse received his Ph.D from the University of Western Ontario specializing in nanotechnology and biotechnology. He did his postdoc at the University of Manitoba with the Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba researching prenatal diagnostics and transplacental drug delivery. He has extensive experience in technology assessment from working with an incubator and business development from the national non-profit organization Futurpreneur and from managing a core research platform. Andrew brings a passion for moving and transforming innovations into practical applications.

andrew.tse@umanitoba.ca
204-590-9188

Nnanna Ukoji

Dr. Nnanna Ukoji is a certified project manager, and strategic Business Development Advisor experienced in leading business development & strategic industry-academic partnerships across a broad range of sectors to drive Canadian innovation. Nnanna received his Ph.D from the University of Saskatchewan where his research focused on the behavior of simple materials under high pressure. Nnanna worked with Mitacs as an Advisor for Business Development, is an excellent communicator and team player experienced in the startup and innovation ecosystem and excited about transforming invention into innovation.

nnanna.ukoji@umanitoba.ca
431-293-0585

L2M Prairies Program Manager
Demetre Balaktsis

Demetre is an innovative educator and instructional design expert with experience in post-secondary institutions, business incubators, social enterprises, and return-to-work programs. He designs inclusive, transformative learning experiences in entrepreneurship, leadership, communications, business computing, and mental wellness across classroom, blended, and e-learning formats. As a Lab2Market program manager, he leads a team supporting early-stage academic founders through the startup journey. With a background in public relations, he builds strong narratives and stakeholder relationships. Passionate about community building, he drives initiatives that foster innovation, collaboration, and growth.

demetre.balaktsis@umanitoba.ca
(431) 337-7376

L2M Prairies Program Coordinator
JP Giordani

JP Giordani has over 20 years of experience providing operational support in global corporate environments, coupled with a passion for entrepreneurship and innovation. Adept at driving cultural alignment, optimizing performance, and mentoring high-performing teams, JP is passionate about helping entrepreneurs find their path to success. JP is focused on fostering thriving workplace cultures through data-driven strategies and a people-centric approach.

jp.giordani@umanitoba.ca
(204)-599-0297

Marketing Coordinator
Nataliia Buchok

Nataliia brings a creative and strategic approach to marketing communications at Lab2Market Prairies. She manages the program's digital presence, social media, and content creation — helping researchers across Manitoba and Saskatchewan discover and connect with commercialization opportunities. With a keen eye for design and storytelling, Nataliia translates complex research into clear, compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences.

Nataliia.Buchok@umanitoba.ca
(431) 323-6569

Reception and Office Assistant

Janice Smith

janice.smith@umanitoba.ca 
204-299-6193

Financial and Administrative Officer

Patsy Wiebe

patsy.wiebe@umanitoba.ca 
204-391-4782