ANNOUNCING THE BIER GARDEN @ MIP

McMaster Innovation Park (MIP) and Equal Parts Hospitality (EPH) announced today that they have reached an agreement to develop and enhance the amenity offerings at the research park, based upon a “Made in Hamilton” cultural arts, entertainment, food and beverage theme. The first of these is envisioned to be an outdoor beer garden opening late spring 2019 in the MIP courtyard.

“MIP is all about innovation, and we are very excited to be working with park management to bring new and innovative foodservice and hospitality concepts to the park” said Jason Cassis, Co-CEO of Equal Parts Hospitality.

“In my first 100 days as CEO of MIP, our member companies made clear to me that they are looking for improved amenities and more engaging places to meet, connect and collaborate. I listened and so MIP management has partnered with Equal Parts Hospitality to help develop the courtyard with unique ‘Made in Hamilton’ cultural attractions including art, music, food and beverage offerings. “The idea is to create ‘collision spaces’ - inviting spaces and programming where researchers, designers, business leaders, financiers, artists and the broader community can meet and hopefully advance ideas toward business reality” said Ty J. Shattuck discussing the new MOU and its first initiative.

Cassis added “We are going to stoke the fire of what is already a thriving food industry in Hamilton and transform the park into a place where innovation in technology intersects with innovation in hospitality and creative arts. The ability for entrepreneurial-minded hospitality companies to come to life within an eventual test kitchen will not only add value to the community, but also to those who work or visit the park."

The first initiative – a beer garden, located within the two-acre courtyard beside MIP’s central building, The Atrium @ MIP, will be innovative in its construction as well as purpose. It is envisioned to be built partly out of shipping containers and will include food stalls, a beer garden and expanded patio area. Included will be a presentation stage that will permit programming of innovation-themed music, arts and cultural events in the space. The new beer garden is planned to be operated by EPH and will be open to the general public as well.