As a researcher, Marie-Claire (MC) Wasson knew her scientific discovery had the potential to improve the way cancer is treated. But while the science was promising, the path to bringing that innovation to patients was less familiar. Determined to bridge that gap, MC co-founded Oncolinc Therapeutics Inc., a venture pioneering a new class of cancer treatments that targets how tumours evade the immune system.
“I felt I lacked a strong understanding of how to commercialize our scientific discovery and translate it into a viable venture.” explained MC. To build that knowledge, she began searching for programs, tools, and resources that could help her navigate the journey from research to market.
She found that opportunity through Lab2Market Launch, a national program designed to help researchers bring their discoveries out of the lab and into the marketplace. “I believed the Lab2Market program could help bridge that gap by providing the knowledge, mentorship, and practical framework needed to move beyond the science and toward commercialization.” shared MC.
MC was selected to join the Health Launch Winter 2026 cohort delivered by McMaster. The program supports health-focused start-ups as founders develop and validate their go-to-market strategies. Each company is paired with a dedicated Founder’s Council and Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EiR), who provide guidance throughout the program. Supported by Mitacs, founders also receive a $10,000 stipend, allowing them to focus on advancing their ventures full-time.
“…Coming into the program [my goal] was to gain a stronger understanding of how to commercialize our venture and translate our scientific discovery into a viable business,” explained MC.
Over the course of the program, MC worked closely with her Entrepreneur-in-Residence, Steven Splinter, to develop strategies tailored to Oncolinc’s needs. She also met regularly with her Founder’s Council, presenting her progress and receiving feedback from experienced entrepreneurs and industry leaders. These conversations helped her evaluate opportunities, refine her approach, and make informed decisions as she advanced the venture.
“The most valuable components of the program were the Founder’s Council and EiR sessions, as they provided targeted, practical guidance tailored to the specific challenges we are currently facing,” noted MC.
”It was a privilege to work with Marie-Claire throughout Lab2Market Launch and watch her evolve from an outstanding scientist into an increasingly confident entrepreneur.” explained Steven Splinter, MC’s L2M Launch Entrepreneur-in-Residence. “She embraced every opportunity to strengthen Oncolinc’s commercialization strategy and venture roadmap, positioning the company to translate exceptional research into meaningful real-world impact.”
“My biggest accomplishment [in the program] was building the confidence to lead the commercialization aspects of our venture,” shared MC.
This confidence, along with her innate drive and openness to embrace new opportunities, is what makes MC stand out as an entrepreneur wise beyond her years. As she continues to build momentum for Oncolinc Therapeutics and advance the company toward key development milestones, her next challenge is preparing for fundraising in 2027, a challenge she will no doubt meet with determination and confidence required to succeed.
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