Closed
Source verified April 28, 2026
ELLA Ascend
Accelerator for women-led businesses in Canada
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Funding available
Varies by project
Deadline
Unspecified
Location
Canada
Overview
ELLA Ascend is a 4-month accelerator for women-led ventures focused on products and services. It helps founders build traction, strengthen operations, and improve financial readiness through workshops, mentorship, and peer support.
Receipt of requests is now closed
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At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Develop workforce skills
- Launch or market a product/service
Eligible Funding
- Varies by project
Funds Providers
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Canada
Legal structures
- Non-profit
- Public or Parapublic institution
- Social economy enterprise
- For-profit business
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- Women
Non-profit candidates
Sector of operation
- Economic, Social and Community Development
- Employment and Training
- Diversity and Inclusion
Target groups
- Women & girls
- Business owners / entrepreneurs
Revenue structures
- Mixed revenue (50%+ earned)
Scope
- National
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Availability timeline
2026
Periods: 2
Activities funded
- Business growth acceleration for women-led ventures.
- Workshops in marketing, sales, operations, and finance.
- One-on-one mentorship and progress check-ins.
- Founder Circles for peer discussion and support.
Official resources
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Women entrepreneurs.
- Registered businesses.
- Non-profits.
- Social enterprises.
Eligible geographic areas
- Canada.
How to apply
- Step 1: Complete the online application.
- Step 2: Interview if shortlisted.
- Step 3: Wait for final notification.
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are reviewed for eligibility.
- Shortlisted candidates are invited to interview.
- Candidates are finalized and notified.
Additional information
- Applicants should be prepared to commit fully to the requirements of the 4-month accelerator program, which involves around 1-2 days of programming per week. - Attendance at mentorship meetings, Progress Check-ins, Founder Circles, and Workshops is mandatory. - The program is designed to create a safe space for accepted participants only, external guests are generally not allowed to attend official ELLA programming. - If applicants have issues accessing content or need assistance, they can reach out to ellawomen@yorku.ca for support. - The program aims to help participants define growth goals and milestones for their businesses and receive expert advice to work towards achieving them.
Frequently Asked Questions about the ELLA Ascend Program
What is the ELLA Ascend?
ELLA Ascend is a 4-month accelerator for women-led ventures focused on products and services. It helps founders build traction, strengthen operations, and improve financial readiness through workshops, mentorship, and peer support.
Who is eligible for the ELLA Ascend program?
To be eligible for the ELLA Ascend program, you must:
Woman-owned business.
Based in Canada.
Minimum $100,000 revenue.
What expenses are eligible under ELLA Ascend?
Business growth acceleration for women-led ventures.
Workshops in marketing, sales, operations, and finance.
One-on-one mentorship and progress check-ins.
Founder Circles for peer discussion and support.
Where is the ELLA Ascend available?
The ELLA Ascend program is available across Canada.
Who are the financial supporters of the ELLA Ascend?
ELLA Ascend is funded by York University