Invest Ottawa Accelerator Program
Last Update: January 24, 2025
Ottawa, ON
Expert advice for high-growth technology firms
Invest Ottawa Accelerator Program at a glance
Eligible Funding
- No Condition
Timeline
- Open Date : November 14, 2019
Financing Type
Grant and Funding
Expert Advice
Eligible Industries
- Information and cultural industries
- Professional, scientific and technical services
Grant Providers
- Invest Ottawa
Status
Open
Overview of the Invest Ottawa Accelerator Program program
If you've developed a minimum viable product (MVP), get mentorship from business experts, guidance in accessing key government funding programs and investments, along with market insights and curated leads within your target market.
Eligible projects & activities
The provided context does not specify any particular geographical eligibility criteria for companies applying to the IO Accelerator program. Based on this information, there are no stated regional restrictions.
Examples of admissible projects:
$ 110,000
Developing an e-learning platform specializing in renewable energy technologies
$ 90,000
Creating a sustainable fashion line made from recycled materials
$ 90,000
Launching a mobile app for local food delivery from farmers markets
$ 100,000
Developing an online platform for mental health services targeting youth in underserved communities
$ 100,000
Developing a new AI-powered financial planning tool for small businesses
$ 130,000
Creating a mobile clinic to offer healthcare services in remote areas
Eligibility criteria of the Invest Ottawa Accelerator Program program
Eligibility for the IO Accelerator Program is determined by specific requirements related to the stage of the tech startup and its market engagement.
- The startup must have developed a minimum viable product (MVP).
- The startup must demonstrate customer traction, such as revenue or pilots with customers.
- The startup must have less than $2 million in annual revenue.
- The founders must be ready to invest time in a high-touch, milestone-driven program.
Who is eligible?
Tech startups in the early stages of success are eligible to apply for the IO Accelerator program. The program is best suited for companies that have developed a minimum viable product (MVP), can demonstrate customer traction with revenue or pilots, have less than $2M in annual revenue, and are ready to commit time to a high-touch, milestone-driven program designed to promote scalable growth.
Eligible expenses
The projects and activities eligible for the IO Accelerator Program focus on accelerating growth for early-stage startups that exhibit potential for scalability and market fit. The program is designed to enhance key business functions and foster strategic market entry.
- Guidance on achieving product-market fit through expert advisory support.
- Facilitation of connections with angel investors and venture capitalists to secure funding.
- Navigation of funding programs to scale business operations.
- Access to desk rental space at Studio7 in Bayview Yards for strategic networking and operational convenience.
- Access to discounts on essential business software to reduce operational costs.
- Provision of curated market insights and research to inform growth strategies.
Eligibility criteria of the Invest Ottawa Accelerator Program program
There are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant. The criteria include:
- Having developed a minimum viable product (MVP)
- Demonstrating customer traction (revenue or pilots with customers)
- Having less than $2M in annual revenue
- Being ready to invest time in following a high-touch, milestone-driven program
How to apply to the Invest Ottawa Accelerator Program program
1
Expression of Interest
- Reach out to the IO Accelerator team to express interest in the program.
- Contact Megan Maltby, Manager of Accelerator Programs & Investor Relations, for additional guidance and information.
2
Eligibility Check
Ensure that your tech startup meets the eligibility criteria such as having developed a minimum viable product, demonstrating customer traction, and having less than $2M in annual revenue.
3
Application Submission
- Complete the application form available through the IO Accelerator's website.
- Provide details about your business, including your MVP, customer traction, and revenue data.
4
Review Process
Wait for the Accelerator team to review your application and assess fit for the program.
5
Interview/Presentation
If the application is shortlisted, prepare for a possible interview or presentation to discuss your business and how the program can assist in its growth.
6
Acceptance and Onboarding
- If accepted, receive an official offer to join the IO Accelerator program.
- Begin the onboarding process to set program goals and milestones with your assigned Accelerator Advisor.
Additional information
Other notable benefits and insights for participants in the IO Accelerator Program include:
- The program not only offers guidance on securing funding but also simplifies the process of connecting with potential investors and venture capitalists.
- Participants gain access to exclusive market insights, enabling more informed strategic decisions and identification of new opportunities.
- There is an optional opportunity to rent desk space at Bayview Yards, providing a professional and collaborative working environment.
- Participants benefit from discounts on various business essential SaaS tools aiding in diverse areas such as legal, finance, marketing, and project management.
Apply to this program
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