StandWithOwners Startup Competition by Telus that invites business owners to showcase how they have adapted, innovated, and stood out in a changing market. The program recognizes entrepreneurs who demonstrate resilience and creative growth strategies.
Three Grand Prize winners will each receive $125,000 in funding, technology support, and business exposure to help grow their businesses.
Six Community Award winners will each receive $10,000 in funding, along with additional prizes provided by program partners.
One People’s Choice Award winner will receive an additional $25,000 in funding.
Criteria:
Must be a Canadian business or organization that is currently operational, legally registered, and generating revenue.
Must have 1 to 100 employees (full-time contractors count as employees, part-time workers count as 0.5 employee).
Open to:
For-profit businesses
Sole proprietors
Registered charities
Not-for-profit organizations
Social enterprises
Businesses from all industries and sectors are eligible.
Startups and newly launched businesses can apply if they are already operating.
Applicants do not need to be customers of TELUS or its partners.
Applicant must be:
The business owner, or
An employee with written permission from the owner, president, or CEO.
Applicant must be a Canadian resident and have reached the age of majority in their province or territory.
Charities, non-profits, and social enterprises must:
Operate in Canada
Primarily serve Canadian communities
Demonstrate financial sustainability
Receive most funding from individual donors
Show measurable community impact
Maintain active local partnerships
Applicants may be required to provide proof of identity and eligibility.