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Startup Canada — Equal Slice Program
Last Update: March 3, 2026
Canada
Empowering underserved Canadian entrepreneurs with resources and support
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Overview
The Startup Canada Equal Slice Program, presented with Pizza Hut, provides up to $100,000 annually in grant funding to support early-stage, underserved Canadian entrepreneurs. The program aims to break down barriers through pitch competitions, educational webinars, and access to essential business resources to help entrepreneurs grow and scale their businesses.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Increasing community impact
- Develop employee skills
Eligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 100,000 $
Timeline
- Open Date : April 3, 2025
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Canada
Legal structures
- For-profit business
- Sole proprietorship
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- Persons with Disabilities
- Newcomers to Canada
- Other Racialized Persons
- 2SLGBTQI+
- Canadians
- Startups
- Women
Activities funded
- Participation in national pitch competitions designed for early-stage entrepreneurs to showcase and scale their businesses.
- Engagement in educational webinars aimed at developing business skills and strategies.
- Access and utilization of a comprehensive business resource hub to support growth and expansion.
- Connecting and networking with industry experts, ecosystem partners, and fellow entrepreneurs through organized events and tour stops.
Examples of admissible projects:
$ 99,000
Participating in pitch competitions for a migrant-led delivery platform
$ 91,000
Expanding accessible tech for disabled users via pitch contests
$ 75,000
Promoting Black-owned wellness startup through national networking events
$ 98,000
Launching a sustainable fashion line with national pitch support
$ 80,000
Showcasing Indigenous food products at national competitions
$ 99,000
Attending national pitch events and scaling tutoring app service
Eligibility
- The applicant must be an early stage entrepreneur in Canada.
- The applicant must be part of an underserved or equity-seeking community.
- The business must be seeking to start, grow, or scale operations within Canada.
Who is eligible?
- Early stage entrepreneurs
- Underserved Canadian entrepreneurs
- Entrepreneurs from systemically excluded or equity-seeking communities
Eligible geographic areas
- Entrepreneurs across Canada
How to apply
1
Review program details
- Review the available information about the Equal Slice Program
- Understand the eligibility requirements for early stage underserved Canadian entrepreneurs
- Familiarize yourself with pitch competition formats and grant opportunities
2
Prepare application materials
- Prepare your business information and pitch materials
- Gather supporting documents as may be required for your application
- Review the application process and important deadlines
3
Submit application online
- Submit your application online once the application window opens
- Apply early to secure your spot, as spots are limited
- Ensure all required materials are included with your submission
4
Await application results
- Wait for a response after submitting your application
- Monitor your email for application updates and potential competition invitations
Additional information
- The program operates in partnership with Pizza Hut Canada.
- Applications for pitch competitions open from April 3 and will close when all spots are filled.
- The Business Owner’s Toolbox offers over 100 curated resources, updated regularly throughout the year.
- Entrepreneurs can access a weekly newsletter with program updates, events, and resources.
