Funding

Thirty innovative ventures have been selected for the 2026 Inventor to Founder Fellowship, a program designed to help aspiring entrepreneurs transform research, ideas, and intellectual property into scalable businesses. Each selected venture receives $10,000 in funding to support early-stage development and commercialization. Powered by YSpace and the IP Innovation Clinic at York University, and funded by Intellectual Property Ontario (IPON), the 13-week fellowship supports students, researchers, recent graduates, and faculty members as they validate ideas, develop minimum viable products (MVPs), strengthen intellectual property strategies, and prepare for commercialization.

1. Algyy (Vladimir Kanic)
Uses public art, living sculptures to capture and store urban carbon emissions, helping corporations and cities showcase visible climate action.
algyycleantech.ca

2. Argus (Ali Hashemi)
Building a modular smart patch system for long-term brain activity monitoring outside clinical settings, paired with an AI health insights platform.

3. CarePair (Maleknaz Nayebi)
A mobile GenAI-powered self-advocacy app that helps older adults prepare for and navigate medical appointments with caregiver support.

4. Carbyn (Abolfazl Anvari Kohestani)
Low-cost capacitive sensor using laser-induced graphene to detect toxic black carbon at industrial sites.

5. Colis (Alireza Sabetimani)
U-shaped fiber optic sensor for fast soil-water monitoring, resistant to electrical interference and soil salinity.

6. Compressible Flow Exfoliation (CFE) (Saeed Arabha)
Solvent-free graphene production technology that reduces manufacturing time from hours to seconds for sustainable materials.

7. Dragoncure (Parmeet Channe)
Science-backed nutraceutical designed to reduce chemotherapy side effects and improve quality of life for cancer patients.

8. Exetasy (Christian Ikirezi)
AI platform for practice exams, coding labs, and mock interview coaching.

exetasy.com

9. FiberTrap (Siamak Seyfi)
Washing-machine filtration system that captures microplastics at the source.

fibertrap.org

10. GreenShade (Tony Braxton Tchio Ngoumeza)
Precision agriculture platform with solar-powered sensors and ML-driven farm insights.

green-shade.ca

11. GreenVeil Packaging (Ali Maleki)
Biodegradable packaging using lignin-based biocomposites to replace plastic in food and agriculture.

greenveilpackaging.com

12. HazelCare (Murat Kristal)
PHIPA-compliant AI practice management platform for mental health professionals.

hazelcare.ca

13. Heptonium (Krishna Bhatt)
Adaptive learning platform using Socratic questioning and mastery tracking.

heptonium.com

14. Hochela.ai (Temituoyo Fabiyi)
AI tenant-landlord matching engine reducing rental bias.

hochela.ai

15. Jax Lab Naturals (Thérèse Wilson-Rawlins)
Natural therapeutics from agri-derived bioactives combining Caribbean herbal medicine with AI molecular modeling.

16. Maple Mind Academy (Aref Nasiri)
Robotics education company providing white-label curriculum and digital teaching platform for schools and families.

maplemind.academy

17. Mobility Ads Inc (Ghazaleh Mohseni)
Decision-support platform for transportation planners to simulate disruptions and evaluate strategies.

interactive-or.net

18. Oarbh (Abhishek Saraff)
Software-only clinical health monitor using camera-enabled devices to measure vitals without contact.

19. Oculi Labs (Abdullah El-Sayes)
Next-generation intraocular lens designed to reduce post-surgery complications.

20. Opticore Analytics / OCX SiteHub (Amir Zarie)
Digitizes construction site radio communications into real-time structured alerts for management.

21. Polaris (Demeng Chen)
AI search visibility tool helping B2B brands optimize presence across ChatGPT, Google AI, and Perplexity.

polarismvp.xyz

22. Prophete Industries (Lawrence Prophete)
GNSS-independent autonomous drone swarm system for mapping and coordination in GPS-denied environments.

propheteindustries.com

23. ReRoute (Miguel Advincula)
GTA commute app comparing transit, driving, and hybrid routes with delay prediction and cost scoring.

rerouteapp.ca

24. Redsticker (Nishith Fernando)
Platform helping pet stores grow revenue through grooming bookings and smarter operations.

redsticker.ca

25. Simavai / LABonWEB (Seyyed Morteza Javid)
AI simulation platform making high-fidelity STEM simulations accessible to universities.

simavai.com

26. Solaris Innovations Canada / ClearAE (Tony Tsui)
AI safety intelligence layer for clinical trials detecting adverse event signals earlier.

27. Visionaryth (Kobe Li)
Webcam-based wellness tracking for posture, screen distance, and blink rate with optometrist dashboard.

visionaryth.com

28. VolTrack (Steven Li)
Vehicle anti-theft system combining hardware and software with real-time tracking and alerts.

voltrack.ca

29. We Are Air Aware / AirWear (Grace Grothaus)
Wearable air pollution sensor mapping real-time exposure and hyperlocal pollution patterns.

30. WearDOXX (Razieh (Neda) Salahandish)
Non-invasive sweat patch wearable using AI for early detection of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.

weardoxx.com

The cohort showcases a diverse range of ventures across cleantech, healthcare, AI, education, advanced manufacturing, sustainability, and digital innovation. Through the fellowship, founders will gain access to mentorship, commercialization support, and intellectual property expertise as they work to bring their ideas from concept to market.

The 2026 New Ventures BC Competition has revealed its latest cohort of standout startups advancing to the next stage of one of British Columbia’s most established early-stage venture programs. Now in its 26th year, the competition continues to serve as a key launchpad for emerging tech companies across the province, providing mentorship, education, investor exposure, and access to more than $250,000 in prizes. This year’s Top 25 reflects a strong mix of innovation across artificial intelligence, health tech, cleantech, enterprise software, and science-driven startups.

The selected companies move forward into the next phase of the competition, where they will continue refining their ventures through pitch sessions, mentorship, and investor engagement opportunities.

Round 2.5 Companies advancing to Round 3

1. Bianca Technologies, Port Coquitlam
2. CampMatch, Victoria
3. Cykel Technologies, Vancouver
4. Dream Photonics, Vancouver
5. Miha Biotech, Coquitlam
6. NanoTech Innovation, Richmond
7. NTP R&D Services, Penticton
8. Nymble Health, Vancouver
9. Subvision Robotics, Burnaby
10. VEGAIN Nutrition, Vancouver

Original 15 in Round 3

1. Circl Brain Health Metrics, Victoria
2. Eagle Eyes Search, Squamish
3. Enya Learning, West Vancouver
4. eSense Health, Port Moody
5. Finitizer Technologies, Burnaby
6. heymate – Rewards, Vancouver
7. IvoryOS Technologies, Vancouver
8. Ontoly, Garibaldi Highlands
9. Radiant Fluidics, Victoria
10. RazzyTech, Surrey
11. Syris, Vancouver
12. TruthSayer AI, Vancouver
13. Tydra Labs, Vancouver
14. VitaPulse Technologies, North Vancouver
15. Volta Home, Vancouver

The Top 25 will now continue through the next rounds of evaluation, where they will participate in additional pitch sessions and mentorship programming. Finalists will eventually compete in the live finale event for cash prizes and the title of British Columbia’s top emerging startup.

California has unveiled its latest statewide innovation grant cohort, awarding funding across 37 early-stage startups through a $2 million program aimed at accelerating commercialization of emerging technologies. The announcement, made by Governor Gavin Newsom, reflects a continued push to position California as a global leader in deep tech, life sciences, climate innovation, and next-generation infrastructure, while increasing direct support for founders at the earliest stages of company development.

This year’s recipients span artificial intelligence, clean energy, biotechnology, advanced materials, housing innovation, workforce systems, and public safety technologies. Many of the selected startups are focused on foundational research and long-horizon engineering challenges rather than incremental product improvements, highlighting a strategic emphasis on deep R&D.

Roughly 70 percent of the awarded companies are pre-revenue, signaling a stronger state-level appetite for early-stage risk in exchange for potentially transformative outcomes. Funding is distributed through multiple regional Accelerate CA hubs, reinforcing California’s distributed innovation model that connects local startup ecosystems with statewide capital programs.

Overall, the cohort reflects a dual focus on economic growth and public impact, with startups addressing challenges such as wildfire response, healthcare access, energy efficiency, workforce inclusion, and sustainable housing.

1. 4th State Energies (SiLi-ion, Inc.)

Silicon nanoparticle battery technology replacing graphite and increasing energy density by 40 percent
Award: $75,000
Website: 4thState.com
Hub: InSoCal Accelerator Hub

2. Alleo Labs Corp.

Neurological therapeutics targeting Parkinson’s disease using USP15 inhibition
Award: $50,000
Website: alleolabs.com
Hub: The Brink

3. ArbourMoney LLC

Real-time payment infrastructure with fraud detection and low-cost transactions
Award: $50,000
Website: arbourmoney.com
Hub: Kern Inclusive Entrepreneurship Hub

4. Ascender Systems Inc.

Autonomous climbing robotics for infrastructure communication restoration
Award: $100,000
Website: ascendersystems.com
Hub: The Brink

5. B3 Broadband LLC

Fixed wireless broadband and digital inclusion programs for underserved communities
Award: $100,000
Website: b3broadband.com
Hub: Kern Inclusive Entrepreneurship Hub

6. Deeper Breath

AI-enabled smart PPE for industrial and defense applications
Award: $50,000
Website: deeperbreath.ai
Hub: Economic Development Collaborative, Ventura County

7. Domina Therapeutics Inc.

Neural-network-based drug discovery platform for cognitive disorders
Award: $100,000
Website: dominatherapeutics.com
Hub: Economic Development Collaborative, Ventura County

8. Evil Genius Games Inc.

Digital tabletop role-playing game platform
Award: $25,000
Website: evilgeniusgames.com
Hub: Plug-In Ventures

9. Fact Hub

AI-powered fact-checking and news aggregation platform
Award: $50,000
Website: facthubit.com
Hub: Economic Development Collaborative, Ventura County

10. Hammerloop LLC

Bilingual workforce platform for construction labor matching
Award: $50,000
Website: hammerloop.com
Hub: Kern Inclusive Entrepreneurship Hub

11. Health Trend Social LLC

AI healthcare analytics integrating social determinants of health
Award: $25,000
Website: healthtrendsocial.com
Hub: Heal.LA Accelerate CA Hub

12. HexHomes LLC

Modular hexagonal housing system for rapid affordable construction
Award: $25,000
Website: HexHomes.co
Hub: InSoCal Accelerator Hub

13. Hikari Medical Technologies LLC

Wearable precision drug dosing and monitoring system
Award: $50,000
Website: hikarimedical.com
Hub: Economic Development Collaborative, Ventura County

14. Kenji Health Inc.

AI mental health companion platform with outcomes tracking
Award: $25,000
Website: kenji.health
Hub: Heal.LA Accelerate CA Hub

15. Kirabo Equity

AI financial literacy and wealth-building platform
Award: $25,000
Website: kiraboequity.com
Hub: Plug-In Ventures

16. Keystone Therapeutics

Targeted drug delivery systems for cancer treatment
Award: $25,000
Website: keystonesciences.com
Hub: The Brink

17. Looks for Lease Technologies

SaaS platform enabling fashion rental and circular economy models
Award: $75,000
Website: looksforlease.com
Hub: Chapman University Leatherby Center

18. Majic Dynasty LLC (Quest Craft)

Educational tabletop gaming platform for K-8 learning
Award: $75,000
Website: majicdynasty.com
Hub: Chapman University Leatherby Center

19. MisTee Wants to Know Inc.

AI-powered hair detangling and scalp care device
Award: $50,000
Website: misteepro.com
Hub: Kern Inclusive Entrepreneurship Hub

20. Need2Say

Real-time multilingual communication platform for industry
Award: $50,000
Website: need2say.com
Hub: Chapman University Leatherby Center

21. Nereid Biomaterials Inc.

Ocean-degradable plastics for marine applications
Award: $50,000
Website: nereidbio.com
Hub: Economic Development Collaborative, Ventura County

22. Nutrible (ThriveLink)

Voice-based access to government assistance programs
Award: $25,000
Website: mythrivelink.com
Hub: Plug-In Ventures

23. PeraWatt Energy Inc.

Magnetic materials improving energy efficiency in AI, EV, and energy systems
Award: $100,000
Website: perawatt.com
Hub: Humanmade

24. Plumas Wood Fiber LLC

Forest biomass conversion into horticultural materials
Award: $50,000
Website: plumaswoodfiber.com
Hub: Chico Start

25. Ponderosa.ai Inc.

AI wildfire detection and drone response system
Award: $25,000
Website: ponderosa.ai
Hub: Chico Start

26. Quantum Energy

Energy analytics platform for clean energy optimization
Award: $100,000
Website: quantum-ec.com
Hub: Economic Development Collaborative, Ventura County

27. Rare Flora Inc.

Plants designed for soil remediation and contamination reduction
Award: $25,000
Website: rareflora.bio
Hub: InSoCal Accelerator Hub

28. Real Good Soil

Biomass-to-biochar regenerative soil production system
Award: $100,000
Website: emergence.us
Hub: Chico Start

29. ReBlood Rx Inc.

Universal blood substitute with long shelf life
Award: $100,000
Website: rebloodrx.com
Hub: Economic Development Collaborative, Ventura County

30. Red Line Safety

Wearable communication and safety system for first responders
Award: $50,000
Website: redlinesafety.com
Hub: Chico Start

31. Seedorina USA LLC

Robotic precision seeding for small farms
Award: $75,000
Website: seedorina.com
Hub: InSoCal Accelerator Hub

32. Sigma Healthsense Inc.

Remote patient monitoring platform for seniors
Award: $25,000
Website: sigmahealthsense.com
Hub: Heal.LA Accelerate CA Hub

33. Solir Energy Solutions

Fire-rated window retrofit for energy efficiency
Award: $75,000
Website: solir.io
Hub: Chico Start

34. Super Foam Corp.

Eco-friendly high-performance foam material
Award: $100,000
Website: superfoamcorp.com
Hub: InSoCal Accelerator Hub

35. VULVAi

AI platform for pelvic and vulvar health tracking
Award: $25,000
Website: vulvai.co
Hub: Plug-In Ventures

36. WallRise LLC

Wall-mounted sit-stand desk systems
Award: $50,000
Website: wallrisedesk.com
Hub: Humanmade

37. WePair Health Inc.

Workforce platform for community health workers and doulas
Award: $25,000
Website: wepairhealth.com
Hub: Plug-In Ventures

California’s latest cohort highlights a strong emphasis on climate tech, health innovation, AI-enabled infrastructure, and workforce tools, with funding increasingly directed toward early-stage companies building foundational technologies across the state.

Bootstrapping is becoming increasingly mainstream as founders rethink what “success” looks like in the early stages of a company. Instead of immediately raising capital, more builders are choosing to grow using their own revenue, savings, or small initial cash flow.

The appeal is not just financial. It is strategic. Bootstrapping forces clarity, discipline, and focus in a way that outside funding often dilutes. When every dollar matters, every decision tends to matter more too.

Below is a deeper look at why more founders are choosing to bootstrap before raising, and in many cases, choosing to never raise at all.

Why bootstrapping is becoming more common

Bootstrapping is becoming more mainstream as founders rethink how startups should actually be built in the early days. Instead of immediately chasing venture capital, more teams are choosing to grow through revenue, customer demand, and tight execution.

Part of this shift comes from real examples in the ecosystem. In the Canadian startup landscape, there are several companies that have shown it is possible to build strong, durable businesses without relying heavily on outside capital.

For example, in the Canadian startup documentary space, stories like Contractor Compliance stand out. The company bootstrapped its way to a successful exit, proving that disciplined, customer-driven growth can lead to meaningful outcomes without early dilution or heavy fundraising cycles.

Another example is Waterloo-based technology company Gambit, which has also followed a similar path. Rather than rushing into funding rounds, the team focused on building, iterating, and staying close to users as they scaled.

These stories resonate because they challenge a common assumption in startups, that raising money is the default first step. Instead, they show that it is possible to build something valuable first, then decide if raising is even necessary later.

As cofounder Ryan Burgio put it, reflecting on the tradeoffs of fundraising:

“I have this belief that you start a business cause you don’t want a bosses, but a lot of people raise money then they get tons of bosses.”

That idea captures a key tension in the startup world. Bootstrapping is not just about funding strategy. It is about control, decision-making, and who ultimately shapes the direction of the company.

For many founders, that realization is a major reason they are choosing to bootstrap longer, or in some cases, indefinitely.

1. Keeping the cake!

One of the most immediate advantages of bootstrapping is ownership. When you raise capital, you give up a portion of your company in exchange for funding. That trade-off can make sense in many cases, but it also means you are sharing future upside from day one.

Bootstrapping allows founders to keep full ownership for longer, sometimes permanently. This gives you more control over decisions, direction, and long-term outcomes. It also means that if the company succeeds, the financial rewards stay with the people who built it.

Even if you eventually raise funding later, starting with bootstrapping often allows you to negotiate from a stronger position because you already have traction.

2. Get real validation

Bootstrapping forces you to confront a simple question early on: are people actually willing to pay for this? Without investor money, there is no cushion to hide behind. You need customers, revenue, or at least strong signals of demand. This creates a more honest form of validation. Instead of optimizing for pitch decks or investor narratives, you optimize for actual user behavior. What do people use? What do they pay for? What do they ignore? This type of validation is often more reliable than early-stage hype because it is grounded in real-world demand, not assumptions.

3. More likely to hit product-market fit

Product-market fit is rarely achieved through heavy planning alone. It comes from iteration, feedback loops, and constant adjustment based on real users. Bootstrapping naturally encourages this process. Since resources are limited, teams tend to stay closer to users and focus on building only what truly matters.

Instead of scaling prematurely, bootstrapped founders are often forced to refine their product until it works efficiently and consistently for a specific audience. This constraint can actually increase the likelihood of finding product-market fit because it reduces distractions and forces focus on core value.

4. Speed is everything

While it may seem counterintuitive, bootstrapping can often lead to faster decision-making. Without investor approvals, board meetings, or pressure to align with external expectations, founders can move quickly. You can test ideas, pivot, or kill features without needing consensus from multiple stakeholders. Speed also comes from simplicity. Bootstrapped companies tend to run leaner, which reduces overhead and increases execution velocity. In early stages, this speed advantage can matter more than resources. Being able to ship quickly, learn quickly, and adjust quickly is often what determines whether a startup survives long enough to scale.

Bootstrapping is not about avoiding funding altogether. It is about choosing control, discipline, and real-world validation before introducing external pressure. For many startups, it creates a stronger foundation, better habits, and a clearer understanding of what actually drives value.

Even if a company eventually raises capital, starting with bootstrapping often makes that funding more effective when it does arrive.

Modern day funding stacks have shifted toward non-dilutive funding to help startups grow and scale. This allows founders to keep more equity in their company while accessing the capital needed to build products, hire talent, and reach new customers. It’s arguably the second best form of funding, right after paying customers.

While venture capital remains an important source of growth capital, not every startup needs to raise outside investment immediately. Grants, tax credits, government programs, startup competitions, accelerators, and fellowships can provide valuable funding without requiring founders to give up ownership.

With billions of dollars available through federal, provincial, and regional programs. From early-stage founders building their first product to growing companies looking to expand into new markets, there are funding opportunities available at nearly every stage of the startup journey.

Besides our funding discovery portal on FundingCake, here are some of the top websites and organizations where Canadian founders can discover grants, funding programs, tax credits, and other startup funding opportunities.

For founders just beginning their funding search, the federal funding portal is often one of the best places to start.

10. ClaimGen

ClaimGen is an AI-powered SR&ED (Scientific Research and Experimental Development) tax credit platform that helps Canadian startups and innovators access government funding faster and with less friction. Instead of relying on traditional consulting-heavy processes, ClaimGen combines AI workflows with SR&ED expertise to streamline eligibility checks, documentation, and filing. The goal is to reduce the complexity of claiming R&D tax credits while improving accuracy and turnaround time.

For startups investing heavily in product development, engineering, or AI research, ClaimGen can be a useful tool to recover development costs through one of Canada’s most valuable non-dilutive funding programs.

9. PacifiCan

PacifiCan is the federal economic development agency serving British Columbia. The agency provides funding and support to startups, entrepreneurs, scaleups, and innovation organizations throughout the province. Programs are designed to help businesses commercialize technology, increase productivity, enter new markets, and accelerate growth.

British Columbia founders should regularly monitor PacifiCan funding opportunities, especially those focused on innovation, clean technology, and economic development.

8. ACOA (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency)

ACOA helps support entrepreneurs and businesses across Atlantic Canada, including Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador. The agency offers funding programs that encourage innovation, business expansion, export development, and economic growth.

Startups can access financial support, advisory services, and resources designed to help them compete both nationally and internationally. For founders operating in Atlantic Canada, ACOA is often one of the most significant sources of government-backed startup funding.

7. Prairies Economic Development Canada

Prairies Economic Development Canada supports businesses throughout Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. The agency provides funding programs focused on innovation, technology adoption, commercialization, business growth, and economic diversification. Startups and growing companies can access support to expand operations, develop new products, and create jobs throughout the Prairie region.

Entrepreneurs located in Western Canada’s Prairie provinces should regularly explore opportunities available through the agency.

6. FedNor

FedNor is dedicated to supporting economic development and innovation across Northern Ontario. The organization works with startups, entrepreneurs, Indigenous businesses, nonprofits, and communities to strengthen local economies through business development and innovation initiatives.

Funding programs often support technology adoption, workforce development, entrepreneurship, community growth, and business expansion projects throughout the region.

5. Ontario Business Grants & Funding

The Ontario government offers a variety of funding programs aimed at supporting startups and growing businesses throughout the province.

Programs may include grants, tax credits, hiring incentives, export assistance, training support, and innovation funding. The Ontario funding portal serves as a central resource for discovering opportunities that can help businesses launch new products, hire employees, expand operations, and invest in growth. Ontario entrepreneurs should regularly review provincial funding opportunities alongside federal programs.

4. FedDev Ontario

FedDev Ontario supports businesses, startups, and innovation organizations throughout Southern Ontario. The agency invests in companies operating in sectors such as artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, clean technology, life sciences, and other high-growth industries. Programs often focus on innovation, commercialization, business expansion, job creation, and scaling promising Canadian companies.

For founders based in Southern Ontario, FedDev Ontario remains one of the most important government funding organizations to monitor.

3. National Research Council Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP)

NRC IRAP is widely regarded as one of Canada’s most valuable funding programs for innovative startups and technology companies. The program provides financial support and advisory services to small and medium-sized businesses developing innovative technologies, products, and services. Funding can be used to support research and development activities, technical hiring, product development, and commercialization efforts.

Many successful Canadian technology companies have leveraged IRAP funding during their growth journey, making it one of the most sought-after government programs in the country.

2. Government of Canada Funding Portal

The Government of Canada Funding Portal is one of the largest sources of funding information available to Canadian entrepreneurs. The portal allows founders to search grants, loans, wage subsidies, tax incentives, and business support programs offered by the federal government. Opportunities can be filtered by industry, business size, province, and funding type.

1. Boast

Boast helps startups identify and maximize government funding opportunities, particularly Scientific Research and Experimental Development (SR&ED) tax credits and research funding incentives. The company combines software and funding expertise to help founders recover eligible research and development expenses while reducing the complexity associated with funding applications and tax credit claims.

For technology startups investing heavily in product development, engineering, and innovation, Boast can be an important tool for unlocking additional sources of capital.

Canada’s startup ecosystem offers founders far more funding options than traditional venture capital alone. From grants and tax credits to innovation programs and regional economic development agencies, entrepreneurs have access to a wide range of resources designed to help businesses grow while preserving ownership.

While funding is never guaranteed, understanding where to look can significantly improve a startup’s chances of securing capital. By leveraging resources like FundingCake, government funding portals, NRC IRAP, and regional development agencies, founders can uncover opportunities that help transform ideas into thriving companies. The best time to start searching for funding is before you need it. Building a funding strategy early can give your startup a significant advantage as it grows and scales.

Ontario’s startup funding ecosystem is broad and layered, spanning early-stage grants, R&D incentives, scale-up funding, and sector-specific programs. For founders, the real challenge is not finding funding, but matching the right program to the right stage of growth.

Below is a structured breakdown of the major Ontario government funding programs available to startups and scaling companies.

1. Early-Stage and Startup Support

New founders, students, and early entrepreneurs can access foundational funding to help validate ideas and launch first versions of their businesses.

Starter Company Plus
Provides up to $5,000 in funding along with mandatory training and mentorship through local Small Business Enterprise Centres. Commonly used for early validation, MVP development, and initial operating expenses.

Summer Company
Supports student entrepreneurs aged 15 to 29 with up to $3,000 in total funding, distributed in two stages. It requires a structured business commitment during the summer period.

Black Entrepreneur Program
Offers $50,000 annually for up to five years to qualifying tech startups led by Black founders. In addition to funding, it includes access to investor networks and structured ecosystem support.

2. Innovation and R&D Tax Credits

Ontario offers several tax-based incentives to reduce the cost of research, development, and digital production.

Ontario Innovation Tax Credit (OITC)
An 8% refundable tax credit on eligible R&D expenditures. It is often combined with federal SR&ED credits to significantly offset development costs.

Ontario Interactive Digital Media Tax Credit (OIDMTC)
Provides refundable tax credits of up to 40% for eligible digital media projects, including gaming, animation, and interactive content.

3. Advanced Manufacturing and Mobility Innovation

Ontario supports startups building in automotive, EV, and advanced manufacturing sectors.

Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN)
Supports innovation in electric vehicles, autonomous systems, and smart mobility through funding, testing infrastructure, and industry collaboration.

Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Competitiveness (AMIC)
Provides grants between $500,000 and $1.5 million for manufacturing innovation, productivity improvements, and technology adoption.

4. Regional Development and Scale-Up Funding

These programs support business expansion, job creation, and regional economic development.

Eastern Ontario Development Fund (EODF)
Offers grants and loans covering up to 15% of project costs, with funding ranging from $500,000 to $5 million.

Southwestern Ontario Development Fund (SWODF)
Provides similar support to EODF, with additional community economic development streams that can cover up to 50% of eligible costs.

5. Digital Adoption and Technology Upgrades

These programs help businesses modernize operations through digital tools and infrastructure.
Digital Competence Centre (DCC)
Offers two streams:
Digital Modernization and Adoption Plan grants up to $15,000
Technology Demonstration Program grants up to $50,000 for implementing new technology solutions

6. Life Sciences and Biotech Funding

Ontario supports scaling life sciences companies through both direct grants and venture-backed programs.

Life Sciences Scale-Up Fund (LSSUF)
Provides conditional grants of up to $2.5 million (covering up to 33% of eligible costs) for SMEs ready to scale manufacturing, advance regulatory approvals, or expand production capacity.

Ontario Life Sciences Venture Capital Fund
Allocates capital through venture funds that invest in Ontario-based life sciences and biomanufacturing companies, supporting growth indirectly through VC partners.

7. Export and Trade Expansion

CanExport SMEs
Provides up to $50,000 in funding to support export development activities such as market research, trade shows, and international expansion.

8. Tariff and Trade Disruption Support

Tariff Response and Trade Investment (RTRI)
Offers up to $1 million in non-repayable funding for companies impacted by international tariffs or trade disruptions, helping businesses adjust supply chains and maintain competitiveness.

9. Indirect Venture Capital Support

Venture Ontario Fund
Deploys government capital indirectly through participating venture funds. Startups do not apply directly but benefit by raising investment from participating VC firms.

10. Additional Scale-Up and Innovation Programs

Beyond core funding streams, Ontario also supports growth-stage companies through broader commercialization and productivity programs.

Business Scale-Up and Productivity (BSP) Stream
Supports SMEs with funding for automation, commercialization, and productivity upgrades, often tied to expansion or export readiness.

Ontario Together Fund (OTF)
Focused on strengthening domestic supply chains and critical production capacity, particularly in healthcare and strategic sectors.

11. Innovation Ecosystem and Regional Support

Ontario funds a broader ecosystem of innovation hubs and commercialization networks.

Regional Innovation Centres (RICs)
Provide mentorship, advisory services, and access to early-stage funding pipelines that connect startups to larger provincial programs.

Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI) Programs
Includes collaboration vouchers, R&D partnerships, and industry-academic funding programs that help startups commercialize technology.

12. Workforce Training and Talent Support

Startup growth is also supported through wage subsidies and training programs.

Canada-Ontario Job Grant (COJG)
Helps employers offset the cost of training new or existing employees, typically covering a significant portion of training expenses.

Skills Development Fund (SDF)
Supports workforce training initiatives, including hiring programs, apprenticeships, and sector-specific upskilling projects.

13. Sector-Specific and Agricultural Innovation

Ontario Agri-Food Innovation Alliance
Supports agri-tech and food innovation projects focused on sustainability, productivity, and agricultural technology development.

Clean Technology and Environmental Innovation Programs
Supports cleantech startups working on emissions reduction, energy efficiency, and environmental sustainability solutions.

14. Indigenous and Community Economic Development

Indigenous Economic Development Fund (IEDF)
Provides grants and financing to Indigenous entrepreneurs and communities supporting business growth, diversification, and economic development initiatives.

Ontario’s funding landscape is not centralized into a single system. Instead, it operates as a network of programs across ministries, sectors, and economic development agencies.

For founders, success often comes down to mapping the right program to the right stage, then combining multiple funding streams across grants, tax credits, and ecosystem support.

The federal government is investing nearly $16.5 million into 13 businesses and organizations across the Greater Toronto Area as it looks to accelerate artificial intelligence adoption and help Canadian companies bring new AI technologies to market faster.

The funding was announced by Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario). The investments support projects spanning healthcare, energy management, manufacturing, legal technology, financial services, construction, transportation, and research.

Among the recipients are startups developing AI-powered healthcare platforms, next-generation drug discovery tools, energy optimization software, and solutions designed to improve productivity across industries.

1. Cosm Medical ($1,987,825)

Toronto-based Cosm Medical will use the funding to accelerate the clinical and commercial rollout of its Gynethotics™ platform. The AI-driven system designs and manufactures patient-specific gynecological devices, replacing traditional one-size-fits-all approaches with personalized solutions tailored to individual patients.

Founded in 2017, the company is building a precision platform for pelvic health and women’s healthcare.

2. DMD Building Systems ($1,700,000)

Scarborough-based DMD Building Systems will invest in advanced manufacturing equipment, robotics, and automation technologies while developing an AI software application for engineering teams. The new platform is designed to extract structured information from non-standard formats, improving data organization and streamlining engineering workflows throughout the building design process.

3. Edgecom Energy ($575,000)

Edgecom Energy will use the funding to accelerate development and commercialization of its AI Energy Co-Pilot platform. The Toronto company combines machine learning and real-time operational data to help large energy consumers optimize energy use, improve efficiency, and reduce operating costs.

4. Future Fertility ($555,239)

Future Fertility is commercializing a new AI-powered technology aimed at improving the assessment of endometrial receptivity, an important factor in fertility treatment outcomes. The Toronto company is already recognized globally for its AI-powered fertility technologies, which are used in more than 300 clinics across 35 countries.

5. MarkiTech ($500,000)

Oakville-based MarkiTech will advance its AI-powered healthcare platform, CliniScripts. The solution automates clinical workflows and operational processes, helping healthcare providers improve efficiency while reducing administrative workloads.

6. MinuteBox ($700,000)

MinuteBox will add advanced AI capabilities to its cloud-based entity management and registry services platform. Based in Thornhill, the company serves law firms and in-house legal teams, providing digital compliance, transaction management, and corporate registry solutions.

7. Naryant ($536,403)

Oakville-based Naryant is modernizing its fleet management systems through AI-driven technologies designed to improve operational efficiency, safety, and environmental sustainability. The company develops software and data solutions that help organizations leverage analytics and business intelligence tools to improve decision-making.

8. Private AI (Limina) ($2,000,000)

Private AI, operating as Limina, received one of the largest investments announced. The Toronto company will scale its sensitive data infrastructure platform, helping organizations in highly regulated industries such as healthcare, insurance, and financial services deploy AI solutions while maintaining compliance and protecting sensitive information.

9. ProteinQure ($1,800,000)

ProteinQure will use the funding to commercialize an AI-powered targeted drug delivery platform. The Toronto biotechnology company specializes in AI-driven protein drug discovery and has developed what it describes as the first AI-designed peptide drug currently undergoing Phase I clinical trials.

10. Fiscal.ai ($1,521,327)

Toronto-based Fiscal.ai is developing an AI-powered platform that transforms unstructured corporate filings into structured financial data. The platform aims to make institutional-grade financial insights more accessible to investors, analysts, developers, and financial research teams.

11. Trax ($394,000)

Trax will develop and commercialize an AI-powered digital platform designed to accelerate building permit approvals. The software performs AI-assisted compliance checks against building codes and regulations, helping municipalities and construction professionals streamline the approval process.

12. Vector Institute ($4,000,000)

The largest recipient of the funding announcement, Toronto-based Vector Institute, received $4 million to launch a Data Readiness, Model Development, and Deployment program. The initiative will help startups transform AI concepts into commercial products by improving data quality, developing AI models, and supporting deployment strategies.

13. VisFuture ($200,000)

North York-based VisFuture will develop a natural-language AI platform that helps small and medium-sized businesses access real-time operational data. The solution is designed to provide immediate insights across sales, inventory, and finance systems, enabling faster decision-making while reducing reliance on technical teams. The investments highlight continued government support for Canada’s rapidly growing artificial intelligence sector. While healthcare and life sciences accounted for several projects, the funding also reflects the increasing adoption of AI across industries including manufacturing, construction, legal services, transportation, finance, and energy.

With nearly $16.5 million being deployed across the region, the funding is expected to help companies accelerate commercialization efforts, create high-value jobs, and strengthen Canada’s position as a global AI innovation hub.

Entrepreneurship is skyrocketing fast, especially as layoffs continue across the tech sector. One idea that shows up often is to think of yourself like a company. Even if you are employed, you are still building skills, income streams, and optionality.

The reality is, many people get caught off guard by layoffs. Having something on the side is no longer just a “nice to have,” it is a practical way to reduce risk and build toward your own thing.

The best way to launch a startup is often to start it on the side. This keeps pressure low, makes it cheaper to experiment, and lets you validate ideas before committing fully. You do not need to incorporate, hire, or overbuild anything early on. The goal is simple, make your first dollar and see if there is real demand.

Here are some practical side hustles that can help you keep your main focus intact while building something of your own.

1. Service-based idea

Many founders start with this approach. Instead of building a product right away, they offer a service that solves a real problem. This could be web design, copywriting, social media management, SEO, or building simple automations for small businesses.

The main advantage is immediate cash flow. You are trading skills for income, which gives you breathing room while you explore and validate your startup idea. Over time, many founders notice repeated patterns in client work and turn these services into productized offerings or SaaS tools.

2. Consulting/Teaching

If you have expertise in a specific area, consulting or teaching can be a strong starting point.

This could be one-on-one consulting, group coaching, workshops, or even online courses. The key is to package what you already know in a way that helps others solve a clear problem.

Some founders start by simply sharing insights online, then converting that attention into paid consulting calls or structured programs. You do not need a complex setup at the beginning, just clarity on the problem you solve.

3. Full-time Job! (Crazy to juggle both)

This is the most demanding option, but also one of the safest financially. Many founders build their startup nights and weekends while still employed. It provides stable income, benefits, and enough runway to experiment without immediate pressure. The tradeoff is time and energy. Eventually, if your startup gains traction, you will need to make a decision on whether to go all in. But in the early days, this is often the lowest risk path to getting started.

4. Sell something like e-commerce or affiliate!

E-commerce is one of the most accessible ways to start testing products quickly. You can begin with niche products, dropshipping, or simple branded goods. The goal is not to build a massive brand immediately, but to learn what people actually buy. Modern tools make it easy to launch a store quickly and test demand. If something works, you scale it. If not, you pivot without major losses.

5. Flipping stuff off e-bay (Gary Vaynerchuk style)

Buying and reselling items remains a powerful way to learn business fundamentals.

This could involve finding undervalued products locally, sourcing from online marketplaces, or reselling collectibles and electronics.

It builds skills in pricing, negotiation, and market timing. Many entrepreneurs credit flipping as their first real exposure to real-world supply and demand dynamics.

6. YouTube Channel

Content creation is a long-term play, but it can become a strong asset.

A YouTube channel lets you build an audience while sharing your journey or expertise. Over time, it can turn into ad revenue, sponsorships, or even customers for your startup.

The biggest advantage is compounding reach. One video can continue generating views and opportunities long after it is published.

7. Ubering

This is one of the most straightforward ways to generate flexible income quickly.

Driving or delivery work provides immediate payouts and flexible hours, making it useful for filling income gaps while building something on the side.

While it does not directly scale into a startup, it can fund early experiments and reduce financial pressure during transition periods.

8. Dog walking business

Local service businesses can be surprisingly reliable and easy to start.

Dog walking, pet sitting, or basic pet care can begin through neighbors, referrals, or local platforms. If you enjoy animals, this becomes a flexible and consistent income stream.

It also builds foundational business skills like trust, communication, and repeat customer relationships.

9. Throw events & parties!

Events are becoming an increasingly strong way to build income and network at the same time.

You can start small with niche meetups, workshops, or community gatherings. Over time, these can evolve into ticketed events or sponsorship-backed communities.

For founders, this is especially valuable because it helps you meet potential customers, partners, and investors in a natural setting.

10. Sports Instructor

If you have experience in a sport, coaching can be a great local income stream. This could be the sport of your choice. Many communities actively look for part-time instructors, especially for kids and beginners. It starts as a simple service, but can expand into group training, clinics, or even digital coaching content over time.

Building a startup does not have to mean going all in from day one. In many cases, the smarter path is building while staying financially stable, learning what works, and gradually increasing commitment as traction appears. The goal is not just to survive the early stage, but to give yourself enough runway to discover what is actually worth building.

Every startup needs funding to get off the ground. Whether it’s a few hundred dollars for a domain name and website hosting, purchasing software tools, building a prototype, or covering early operating expenses, launching a business often requires upfront investment long before revenue begins to flow.

While many founders turn to personal savings, friends and family, or investors, one of the most attractive sources of startup funding is non-dilutive capital. Unlike venture capital or angel investment, non-dilutive funding allows founders to access financial support without giving up ownership or equity in their company.

Fortunately, Toronto entrepreneurs have access to a growing number of grants, fellowships, and funding programs designed to help startups launch, validate ideas, develop products, and scale their businesses. Here are some of the top startup funding opportunities available to founders in Toronto and across Ontario.

1. Starter Company Plus

Starter Company Plus is a small business grant program that helps entrepreneurs start, grow, or purchase an existing business. Delivered through local Small Business Enterprise Centres across Ontario, the program combines training, mentorship, and financial support.

Successful applicants can receive grant funding to help cover business expenses while also gaining access to workshops, business planning resources, and ongoing guidance from experienced advisors. The program is particularly well suited for early-stage founders and first-time entrepreneurs looking to validate and launch their businesses.

2. Inventor to Founder Fellowship

The Inventor to Founder Fellowship supports researchers, innovators, and technical founders who are looking to commercialize breakthrough technologies and transform innovative ideas into venture-backed companies.

Participants receive funding, mentorship, and access to experienced entrepreneurs who help bridge the gap between invention and business creation. The fellowship is ideal for founders emerging from universities, research institutions, or deep-tech sectors who need support turning intellectual property into a scalable startup.

3. Entrepreneurship & Innovation Fund

The Entrepreneurship & Innovation Fund provides financial support to organizations and initiatives that strengthen Ontario’s innovation ecosystem. Through various streams and partnerships, the fund helps accelerate entrepreneurship, support startup growth, and encourage innovation across multiple industries.

Startups may benefit indirectly through programs, incubators, accelerators, and ecosystem partners that receive support through the fund. It plays an important role in expanding resources available to entrepreneurs across the province.

4. i.d.e.a. Fund

The i.d.e.a. Fund was created to support high-potential startups led by founders from equity-deserving communities. The program helps entrepreneurs access capital, mentorship, training, and strategic support needed to grow innovative businesses.

In addition to funding, founders gain access to a network of advisors, industry experts, and ecosystem partners. The program focuses on creating more inclusive opportunities within Canada’s startup ecosystem while helping businesses reach commercialization and growth milestones.

5. Life Sciences Innovation Fund (LSIF)

The Life Sciences Innovation Fund (LSIF) supports Ontario-based life sciences companies that are developing innovative health technologies, biotechnology solutions, medical devices, diagnostics, and other healthcare innovations.

The fund is designed to help companies advance product development, achieve commercialization milestones, and accelerate growth. By providing non-dilutive funding, LSIF helps promising life sciences startups move closer to market while strengthening Ontario’s position as a leading health innovation hub.

6. Circular Food Innovators Fund

The Circular Food Innovators Fund supports startups and organizations developing solutions that reduce food waste, improve sustainability, and create circular economy opportunities within the food sector.

Funding is available for innovative projects that help divert waste, improve resource efficiency, develop sustainable food systems, and create environmental impact. The program is particularly attractive to food-tech startups, sustainability-focused ventures, and companies building technologies that support a more circular food economy.

Access to funding can make a significant difference during the early stages of building a startup. While customer revenue should always be the ultimate goal, grants and fellowship programs can provide valuable non-dilutive capital that helps founders test ideas, build products, hire talent, and reach important milestones without giving up ownership in their company.

For Toronto founders, these programs represent some of the most promising funding opportunities available today and are worth exploring as part of any startup funding strategy.

Ontario is investing $5 million in 10 emerging life sciences companies through the latest round of its Life Sciences Innovation Fund (LSIF), a program designed to help homegrown health technology and biotechnology ventures bring new medical innovations to market.

The funding, announced by the Ontario government, will provide up to $500,000 to each recipient company to support commercialization efforts, business growth, and job creation. The initiative forms part of Ontario’s broader Life Sciences Strategy, which aims to strengthen the province’s position as a global hub for health innovation and biomanufacturing.

The selected companies are developing a range of technologies spanning artificial intelligence, cancer diagnostics, drug discovery, pharmacy infrastructure, reproductive healthcare, and next-generation therapeutics.

“Through strategic investments like the Life Sciences Innovation Fund, our government is advancing Ontario’s leadership in this vital sector by accelerating the path to market for made-in-Ontario technologies,” said Vic Fedeli, Ontario’s Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade.

Companies Receiving LSIF Funding

1. Esphera SynBio Inc. (Ottawa and Hamilton)

Esphera SynBio is developing its ExoGen™ platform, which enables the creation of in vivo immunotherapies aimed at treating cancer and chronic diseases.

2. Kare Chemical Technologies (Mississauga)

The pharmaceutical manufacturer is advancing a patented platform designed to develop non-psychoactive alternatives to opioids for pain management, obesity, and neurodegenerative conditions.

3. Myomar Molecular Inc. (Sudbury)

Myomar is building what it describes as the first non-invasive, urine-based diagnostic test for monitoring muscle degeneration and improving muscle health management.

4. MyStoria Inc. (Kitchener)

The digital health startup is developing a care coordination platform that helps patients organize medical records and navigate reproductive healthcare services.

5. mDETECT Inc. (Kingston)

mDETECT has developed a DNA-methylation liquid biopsy technology intended to improve the early detection and ongoing monitoring of metastatic cancers, including lung, breast, and prostate cancer.

6. NodeAI (Hamilton)

NodeAI is creating an AI-powered platform that assists clinicians in identifying lymph nodes, predicting malignancy, and improving biopsy guidance for cancer care.

7. ScriptRunner Innovations Inc. (King City)

The company is building AI-powered pharmacy infrastructure that streamlines operations and enables pharmacies to offer an Amazon-like prescription delivery experience.

8. Stoked Bio (Hamilton)

Stoked Bio combines machine learning with biological research to discover new therapeutics targeting drug-resistant infections, microbiome-related diseases, cancers, and Parkinson’s disease.

9. Synakis Corp. (Toronto)

Synakis is developing treatments for retinal disease, retinal detachment, and glaucoma, with the goal of improving outcomes for patients with ocular disorders.

10. Synmedix (Hamilton)

Synmedix is developing a new generation of antibiotic therapies designed to combat drug-resistant infections while preserving the health of the microbiome.

According to the province, the Life Sciences Innovation Fund has generated nearly $63 million in private-sector co-investment since its launch and has contributed to the creation and retention of approximately 1,400 jobs across Ontario’s life sciences ecosystem.

The government also announced that an additional $15 million will be invested over the next three years to continue the program, following its renewal in the 2025 Ontario Budget.

“Ontario has the research strength, talent and entrepreneurial drive to lead in life sciences and LSIF is helping turn that advantage into real-world impact,” said Claudia Krywiak, president and CEO of the Ontario Centre of Innovation.

The latest funding round highlights Ontario’s continued focus on scaling domestic health technology and biotechnology companies, as the province looks to strengthen commercialization pathways and expand its role in the global life sciences sector.