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Innovation Factory — Support for Startups
Free advisory support for Ontario startups
Last Update: April 9, 2026
Funding available
Varies by project
Timeline
- Open Date : December 14, 2022
Location
Ontario, Canada
Overview
Innovation Factory provides free business support and advisory services for Ontario-based businesses. It helps startups and scaling companies through workshops, mentorship, strategic connections, and funding navigation, with no direct funding amount stated.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Develop strategic partnerships
- Attract or retain talent
- Develop workforce skills
Eligible Funding
- Varies by project
Timeline
- Open Date : December 14, 2022
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- Manufacturing
- Transportation and warehousing
- Information and cultural industries
- Professional, scientific and technical services
- Health care and social assistance
Location
- Ontario
Legal structures
- For-profit business
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- Startups
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Business advisory and mentorship support
- Workshops, webinars, and training programs
- Networking and strategic connections
- Support for commercialization, funding, and growth planning
Documents Needed
- Completed client application form
- Annual survey participation
Official resources
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Ontario-based businesses
- Startups
- Scaling companies
Who is not eligible
- Businesses not based in Ontario
Eligible geographic areas
- Ontario
How to apply
1
Apply to Become a Client
- Visit the Innovation Factory website to access the application form.
- Complete the application form with your business details and submit it to become a client of Innovation Factory.
2
Engage in Advisory Services
- Once approved, utilize the business advisory services offered at your relevant business stage (Idea, Discovery, Validation, Efficiency, or Scale).
- Attend the appropriate workshops, webinars, and networking opportunities to further refine and validate your venture.
3
Access Funding and Resources
- As your business progresses, engage with Advisors at Innovation Factory to explore exclusive funding opportunities and resources tailored to your needs.
- Utilize strategic referrals, explore pitch competitions, and develop your investor-readiness.
4
Collaborate with Innovation Advisors
- Work closely with an Innovation Advisor who will provide strategic guidance throughout your participation with Innovation Factory.
- Leverage their expertise to make key strategic connections and develop a personalized growth plan.
5
Submit Application for Pitch Competitions (if applicable)
- If eligible, apply to participate in Innovation Factory’s signature pitch competitions to gain additional exposure and win prizes.
- Prepare a comprehensive pitch with the support of your Innovation Advisor and refine your delivery through available training and mentorship.
Processing and Agreement
- Submit the client application form
- Attend an onboarding session after submission
- Be connected to the most suitable services and programs
- Receive ongoing support from an Innovation Advisor or Venture Growth team contact
Additional information
- Core services are provided at no cost to Ontario-based businesses.
- The organization does not take company equity.
- Clients must complete an annual survey.
- Applicants are invited to an onboarding session after submitting the client form.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the Innovation Factory — Support for Startups Program
What is the Innovation Factory — Support for Startups?
Innovation Factory provides free business support and advisory services for Ontario-based businesses. It helps startups and scaling companies through workshops, mentorship, strategic connections, and funding navigation, with no direct funding amount stated.
Who is eligible for the Innovation Factory — Support for Startups program?
To be eligible for the Innovation Factory — Support for Startups program, you must:
Ontario-based business
Innovative startup or scaling company
Seeking business support
What expenses are eligible under Innovation Factory — Support for Startups?
Business advisory and mentorship support
Workshops, webinars, and training programs
Networking and strategic connections
Support for commercialization, funding, and growth planning
Who can I contact for more information about the Innovation Factory — Support for Startups?
You can contact Innovation Factory by email at [email protected] or by phone at 905-667-2611.
Where is the Innovation Factory — Support for Startups available?
The Innovation Factory — Support for Startups program is available the province of Ontario.
Is the Innovation Factory — Support for Startups a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Innovation Factory — Support for Startups is a Other Support
Who are the financial supporters of the Innovation Factory — Support for Startups?
Innovation Factory — Support for Startups is funded by Innovation Factory