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Early Stage Startup Stream - ON - Canada

Early Stage Startup Stream

Last Update: August 25, 2025
ON, Canada
Support for early stage innovation entrepreneurs

At a glance

Eligible Funding
  • No Condition
Timeline
  • Open Date : May 12, 2022
Financing Type
Expert Advice
Eligible Industries
  • All industries
Program status
Open

Overview

Participate in webinars, mentorship programs and opportunities to prepare your business in the innovation economy.

Activities funded

  • Preparation and execution of a business roadmap for early-stage startups.
  • Development and validation of scalable business models.
  • Pilot projects with strategic partners to achieve market traction.
  • Participation in structured accelerator programs focused on business scale-up and exit strategies.
  • Ongoing engagement in alumni programs and ecosystem leadership initiatives.
Examples of admissible projects:
$ 30,000
Enhancing laboratory research capabilities for renewable energy projects
$ 18,000
Organizing a mentorship program for young entrepreneurs in the tech industry
$ 12,000
Developing a specialized training program for financial literacy among immigrants
$ 8,000
Launching a digital marketing campaign to boost organic reach for a local bakery
$ 9,000
Launching a community garden initiative to promote sustainable agriculture
$ 15,000
Developing a new software solution to improve inventory management for small retailers

Eligibility

  • The applicant must be an entrepreneur who has or is looking to incorporate a new business in Canada.
  • The business or project must focus on user growth, traction development, team and revenue growth, and fundraising.
  • The applicant must be able to commit to setting and meeting revenue and growth goals over 9-18 months.
  • The applicant must be willing to participate in program requirements, meet milestones, and engage consistently with the program's Roadmap.
  • Entrepreneurs from across Canada are eligible to apply.

Who is eligible?

  • Entrepreneurs looking to incorporate a new business in Canada
  • Individuals with a business idea or seeking to solve a problem
  • Founders with an already established business

Eligible geographic areas

  • Entrepreneurs and companies located anywhere in Canada.

Selection criteria

  • Commitment to define and achieve growth and revenue goals over a period of 9 to 18 months.
  • Ability to build a sustainable business model with growth potential in the market.
  • Willingness to actively engage in the program, meet milestones, and consistently participate in the activities of the Parkdale Centre.
  • Initiative, motivation, and willingness to step back to shape their startup.
  • Added value of the project or company for the people and communities served.

How to apply

1

Initial Research

  • Visit the Parkdale Centre for Innovation's website to review available programs and determine eligibility.
  • Understand the specific goals and commitments required for the program you are interested in.
2

Application Preparation

  • Prepare the necessary information and documents to complete your application.
  • Draft a clear business roadmap with goals, challenges, and metrics.
  • Ensure readiness to commit to program requirements and milestones.
3

Start an Application

  • Navigate to the "Start an Application" section on the Parkdale Centre's website.
  • Fill out the online application form with accurate and complete information.
4

Submit Application

Submit your completed online application form through the Parkdale Centre's website.
5

Post-Submission

  • Await contact from the Parkdale Centre regarding the status of your application.
  • Be prepared to revise your application or develop a detailed roadmap for further program participation if invited.

Additional information

  • Programs are delivered fully online, with options for both virtual and in-person participation.
  • Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with regular intakes each Fall/Winter and Spring/Summer.
  • Alumni programs and ongoing ecosystem support are available for program graduates.

Documents and links

Early Stage Startup Stream

Apply to this program

Frequently Asked Questions about the Early Stage Startup Stream Program

Here are answers to the most common questions about the Early Stage Startup Stream. This section explains what the program is, how much funding is available, eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and other important details to help you determine if this grant is right for your business.

What is the Early Stage Startup Stream?

How much funding can be received?

What expenses are eligible under Early Stage Startup Stream?

What is the deadline to apply?

Is the Early Stage Startup Stream a grant, loan, or tax credit?

Who are the financial supporters of the Early Stage Startup Stream?

Who is eligible for the Early Stage Startup Stream program?

Who can I contact for more information about the Early Stage Startup Stream?

Where is the Early Stage Startup Stream available?

Are startups eligible for the Early Stage Startup Stream program?

Apply to this program

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