Coquitlam, BC – December 3, 2025 – The Coquitlam Foundation is proud to announce the launch of the Dream Spark Initiative Fund, a new program designed to support young people under 30 who aspire to build something bigger for themselves and their communities. Created by local entrepreneur Ted Lau and his partner Marisa Woo, this fund was inspired by a decade-long dream to give back to the city that shaped their lives.
The Dream Spark Initiative Fund will provide financial assistance and resources to emerging entrepreneurs who demonstrate resilience, creativity, and a willingness to take bold action. “This fund is for the ones who hustle, who learn, and who dare to dream,” says Lau. “It’s about igniting that spark inside every young person who believes they can create something meaningful—even when the path forward isn’t clear.”
The name Dream Spark reflects the entrepreneurial spirit: a tiny, stubborn spark that grows into something extraordinary through vision and perseverance. Lau, founder of Ballistic Arts, has deep roots in Coquitlam and a lifelong commitment to proving that success can start right here at home.
“Meeting Carol Brodie, Executive Director of the Coquitlam Foundation, and Chair Matthew Sebastiani was the turning point,” Lau explains. “They embraced this idea wholeheartedly, and together we made it happen.”
The fund launches with an ambitious target: to grow to $100,000 over time. “It’s a stretch goal,” Lau admits, “but every big dream starts with a spark. Step by step, we’ll get there.”
The launch of the Dream Spark Initiative Fund marks the beginning of a long-term commitment to empowering youth and fostering innovation in Coquitlam. Community members are invited to learn more and contribute by visiting the Dream Spark Initiative Fund donation page on the Coquitlam Foundation website.
Visit the Dream Spark Initiative Fund.