The Next 36, a new program that helps launch the business careers of 36 promising and innovative Canadian undergraduates, have chosen five U of T Engineering students.

In summer 2011, EngSci students Shahed Al-Haque (1T1), Shane Gu (1T3), Saksham Uppal (1T1 + PEY) and ECE students Michael Del Baso (1T2) and Tulika Gupta (1T2) will join other aspiring entrepreneurs from around the country, as they compete in teams of four to develop a mobile application company.

The program will provide each team with the capital, resources and mentorship (from celebrated entrepreneurs) over a course of five months leading up to the summer competition.

“This is a once in a lifetime opportunity and a dream come true for me. The array of industry and people put together would give me tremendous exposure and experience. I am very excited about the upcoming months,” said Gupta.

“We are delighted to hear of Michael and Tulika’s recent accomplishment. They are among the many talented, business-conscious students in our Department. We know they will do exceptionally well in this program,” said Professor Farid N. Najm, Chair, The Edward S. Rogers Sr. Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering.

And with the inclusion of three EngSci students, Professor Will Cluett, Chair, Division of Engineering Science, is thrilled to hear of their recognition.

“The Division is very pleased that The Next 36 has selected three Engineering Science students for this new and exciting initiative. Many of our students have developed their own companies during their time as students in Engineering Science or after graduation. It is terrific that Shahed, Shane and Saksham have been recognized as being among a very strong group of up-and-coming entrepreneurs in Canada,” he said.