eCommerce North Innovator Challenge

Q: How much funding can be received?

eCommerce North Innovator Challenge Funds up to 1500% of admissible expenses.

Q: What is the deadline to apply?

The application deadline for this grant program is October 23, 2025. Applicants must submit their complete application before this date to be considered for funding.

Q: Is the eCommerce North Innovator Challenge a grant, loan, or tax credit?

eCommerce North Innovator Challenge is a Grant and Funding

Q: Who are the financial supporters of the eCommerce North Innovator Challenge?

eCommerce North Innovator Challenge is funded by Elevate Talent

Q: Who is eligible for the eCommerce North Innovator Challenge program?

To be eligible for the eCommerce North Innovator Challenge program, you must: • E-commerce startups 0-2 years old • Active and engaging social media presence

Q: Who can I contact for more information about the eCommerce North Innovator Challenge?

You can contact Elevate Talent.

Q: Where is the eCommerce North Innovator Challenge available?

The eCommerce North Innovator Challenge program is available across Canada.

Q: Are startups eligible for the eCommerce North Innovator Challenge program?

Yes, startups are eligible to apply for the eCommerce North Innovator Challenge program.

Last Update: September 23, 2025

Canada

Four-week accelerator for early-stage e-commerce business growth

At a glance

Eligible Funding

From $1,500 to $1,500

Timeline

Open Date : September 17, 2025
Closing date : October 23, 2025

Financing Type

Grant and Funding

Expert Advice

Eligible Industries

Retail trade
Arts, entertainment and recreation
Accommodation and food services
Other services (except public administration)
Public administration

Funds Providers

Elevate Talent

Program status

Open

Overview

The eCommerce North Innovator Challenge offers three grants of $1,500 CAD each to support purpose-driven early-stage e-commerce startups in scaling their businesses. The program focuses on activities such as improving business pitches, expanding email lists, and optimizing websites to boost sales conversions.

Financing terms and conditions

Three grants of $1,500 CAD each are available to selected businesses through the virtual pitch competition.

Activities funded

Scaling and accelerating the growth of early-stage e-commerce businesses.
Improving business pitches and sales strategies for digital commerce.
Enhancing website performance to increase sales conversions.
Expanding customer reach through effective email and social media campaigns.

Examples of admissible projects:

$ 1,500

Implementing live chat and customer support for online pet store

$ 1,500

Redesigning home décor shop’s email marketing and automation

$ 1,500

Launching optimized website for vegan skincare product line

$ 1,500

Boosting conversion rates with targeted Facebook and Instagram ads

$ 1,500

Producing a promotional video pitch for eco-friendly apparel line

$ 1,500

Expanding organic tea brand’s influencer and ambassador program

Eligibility

The applicant must be an e-commerce startup that is between 0 and 2 years old.
The founder must show entrepreneurial commitment, whether working full-time or balancing the business with other responsibilities.
The business can operate in diverse sectors, such as beauty, wellness, apparel, home goods, food, and related fields.
The startup must have an active and engaging social media presence.

Who is eligible?

E-commerce startups (0-2 years old)
Direct-to-consumer (D2C) businesses
Companies in sectors such as beauty, wellness, apparel, home goods, food, and related fields

Eligible expenses

Investments related to the growth and development of the company (use of subsidies to support the growth strategy).

Selection criteria

Quality and impact of the final pitch presented before the jury.

How to apply

Check eligibility criteria

Review program eligibility criteria for e-commerce startups (0-2 years old, committed founders, active social media presence, relevant sectors)
Ensure alignment of your business with the requirements

Access and prepare the application

Access the application form via the official eCommerce North Innovator Challenge website
Gather required business information and documentation before starting

Fill out the application form

Complete the online application form with accurate details about your business and its objectives
Highlight your commitment, sector, and online presence as per requirements

Submit your application

Review your application carefully for completeness and accuracy
Submit the application before the deadline (October 23, 2025)

Wait for application review

Wait for confirmation and review by the program administrators
Monitor your inbox for updates regarding your application status

Participate in the program

If selected, participate in the 4-week Innovator Challenge program starting November 6, 2025
Engage in workshops and mentorship sessions, and prepare for the pitch competition

Present at the pitch competition

Present your business at the final pitch competition
Compete for the chance to win one of three $1,500 CAD grants

Additional information

The program includes mentorship and coaching from e-commerce industry professionals.
Participants will join a network of eCommerce North alumni and have access to peer support.
Finalists participate in a virtual pitch competition to compete for the grant awards.
The program features workshops on branding, marketing, SEO, and pitching delivered by experienced mentors.

Apply to this program

Frequently Asked Questions about the eCommerce North Innovator Challenge Program

Here are answers to the most common questions about the eCommerce North Innovator Challenge. 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.