Trail Blazer
ON, Canada
Training for early-stage startups in Northwestern Ontario
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|noCondition
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- grant_single|timelineUnspecified
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Expert Advice
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- grant_single|allIndustries
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- Northwestern Ontario Innovation Centre
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grant_card_status|open
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A three week program at a cost of $25 that helps entrepreneurs identify their market and validate their business model.
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The Trailblazer + ProtoZone program supports innovative ideas or products that are scalable or can be manufactured in the region. Those who complete the program may apply for Next Level funding covering up to $5,000 in assistance.
- Business idea validation
- Profitability assessment
- Customer validation
- Comprehensive business model development
- Investment readiness preparation
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$5,000
Winnipeg
Creating an online platform to teach coding to underserved youth communities.
$5,000
Montreal
Establishing a co-working space equipped with 3D printers for local startups.
$5,000
Toronto
Developing a new biodegradable packaging solution to replace plastic in grocery stores.
$5,000
Vancouver
Launching a mobile app that connects local farmers with restaurants for direct produce sales.
$5,000
Halifax
Starting a community-driven organic vegetable garden to promote sustainable agriculture.
$5,000
Calgary
Implement a smart home system for energy conservation in residential areas.
grant_single_labels|admissibility
The eligibility criteria for this grant focus on individuals or companies with innovative, scalable ideas or those looking to manufacture a product in the region.
- Looking for individuals/companies with an innovative idea that is scalable or looking to manufacture a product in the region.
- Must be coachable.
- Willing to engage with customers.
- Fully committed to moving their idea forward.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
Yes, there are eligible types of companies for this grant. The program is looking for individuals and companies with innovative ideas that are scalable or are looking to manufacture a product in the region.
- Individuals with innovative ideas
- Companies with innovative ideas
- Companies planning to manufacture a product in the region
- Entities committed to moving their idea forward
- Participants who are coachable and willing to engage with customers
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply
Some types of companies may not be eligible for this grant. For example:
- Non-profit organizations
- Government entities
- Individual sole proprietors
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
Participants who successfully complete the Trailblazer + ProtoZone program and have an innovative business or product can apply to the Next Level funding which could cover up to $5,000 in assistance towards approved costs in eligible categories.
- Innovation-related costs
- Manufacturing expenses
- Research and development
- Marketing and commercialization
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
Eligible geographic zones for this grant are limited to the region specified for manufacturing of the product.
- Manufacturing in our region
- Northwestern Ontario
grant_single_labels|criteria
There are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant. The evaluation and selection criteria include:
- Alignment with grant objectives
- Demonstrated need for funding
- Feasibility of the project
- Potential impact on the economy
- Capacity of the organization to implement the project
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- Step 1: Ensure Eligibility
- Confirm that you have an innovative idea or product that is scalable or set for manufacturing in the region.
- Verify that you are coachable, willing to engage with customers, and committed to moving your idea forward.
- If unsure, contact Carole Long at carole@nwoinnovation.ca before purchasing your ticket.
- Step 2: Register for the Workshop Series
- Purchase your ticket for the Trailblazer + ProtoZone program.
- Note the cost of $25.00 plus HST, which includes a light snack.
- Step 3: Attend All Sessions
- Participate in all four in-person sessions scheduled on:
- Session One - September 10th: 4 - 5pm EST
- Session Two - September 17th: 4 - 5 pm EST
- Session Three - September 24th: 4 - 5pm EST
- Session Four - October 1st: 4 - 5pm EST
- Step 4: Complete the Program
- Successfully finish the Trailblazer + ProtoZone program.
- Engage in customer validation, peer-to-peer learning, and mentorship.
- Step 5: Apply for Next Level Funding
- Apply for the Next Level funding if you have an innovative business or product post-program completion.
- Potentially secure up to $5,000 in assistance for approved costs in eligible categories.
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The Trailblazer + ProtoZone program aims to help participants with innovative ideas or products. Successful participants may apply for Next Level funding that could provide up to $5,000 for eligible costs.
- The program consists of a four-part weekly workshop series.
- Each session is 1 hour long and includes customer validation, peer-to-peer learning, and mentor guidance.
- Workshops will help create a comprehensive business model canvas.
- Includes personalized 1-on-1 support from the Innovation Centre team.
- Contact Carole Long at carole@nwoinnovation.ca or call 807-768-6696 for questions or to see if you qualify.
- Sessions run from 4 - 5pm EST on September 10th, 17th, 24th, and October 1st.
- Cost: $25.00 +HST, includes a light snack.
- Location: Northwestern Ontario Innovation Centre, 2400 Nipigon Rd.
Apply to this program
Unlock Innovation with Trailblazer + ProtoZone: A Gateway to Success
Are you ready to transform your innovative idea or product into a successful business? Join the Trailblazer + ProtoZone program to learn essential skills, create a comprehensive business model canvas, and receive 1-on-1 mentorship to validate and advance your business towards market readiness.
Trailblazer + ProtoZone: Your Path to Business Innovation and Success
The Trailblazer + ProtoZone program, hosted by the Northwestern Ontario Innovation Centre, is a unique opportunity designed for individuals and companies with groundbreaking ideas or products. This program is your first step in transforming your concept into a thriving business by guiding you through a structured, hands-on workshop series. Here’s a detailed overview of what the program offers and how you can benefit:
Program Format and Schedule
The Trailblazer + ProtoZone program is structured into a four-part weekly workshop series. Each session builds upon the previous one, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience. The sessions will be held in-person at the Northwestern Ontario Innovation Centre, with a focus on interactive learning and peer-to-peer engagement. Here are the details for each session:
- Session One: September 10th, 4 - 5 pm EST
- Session Two: September 17th, 4 - 5 pm EST
- Session Three: September 24th, 4 - 5 pm EST
- Session Four: October 1st, 4 - 5 pm EST
The cost for the entire series is $25.00 plus HST, and includes a light snack during each session.
What You Will Learn
Participants in the Trailblazer + ProtoZone program will go through an educational journey that touches on crucial aspects of building and validating a business. Here’s a breakdown of the key areas you will explore:
- Customer Validation: Understand your market and validate your business idea by engaging with potential customers.
- Peer-to-Peer Learning: Benefit from interactive sessions that foster knowledge sharing and networking with fellow innovators.
- Mentor Guidance: Receive insights and advice from experienced mentors who can help refine your business plan.
- Business Model Canvas: Develop a comprehensive business model canvas that covers all aspects of your business, ensuring it aligns with market needs and customer desires.
Eligibility Criteria
The Trailblazer + ProtoZone program is ideal for the following individuals and companies:
- Those with an innovative idea or product that is scalable or has the potential for manufacturing in the region.
- Individuals who are coachable, willing to engage with customers, and fully committed to advancing their idea.
If you’re unsure whether this program is the right fit for you, you’re encouraged to reach out to Carole Long at carole@nwoinnovation.ca for guidance before purchasing your ticket.
Personalized Support and Funding Opportunities
One of the unique benefits of the Trailblazer + ProtoZone program is the personalized 1-on-1 support you will receive from the Innovation Centre team. This support is designed to help you navigate challenges and make informed decisions as you develop your business. Additionally, participants who successfully complete the program and have an innovative business or product can apply for the Next Level Funding. This funding opportunity can provide up to $5,000 in assistance towards approved costs in eligible categories, further supporting your business growth.
Why Participate?
Here are some compelling reasons to join the Trailblazer + ProtoZone program:
- Expert Guidance: Learn from experienced mentors who have a deep understanding of the business landscape.
- Comprehensive Learning: Gain a thorough understanding of business validation, profitability assessment, and investment readiness.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow innovators and potential collaborators.
- Step-by-Step Development: Build a robust business model canvas that addresses all critical components of your business.
- Future Funding: Access potential funding to support your business after successfully completing the program.
How to Apply
Applying for the Trailblazer + ProtoZone program is straightforward. You can sign up by visiting the Northwestern Ontario Innovation Centre. Don’t miss this opportunity to turn your innovative idea into a successful business. For any questions or additional information, feel free to connect with Carole Long at carole@nwoinnovation.ca or call 807-768-6696.
Location Details
The program will take place at:
Northwestern Ontario Innovation Centre
2400 Nipigon Rd.
Thunder Bay, ON
Canada
Conclusion
The Trailblazer + ProtoZone program is an invaluable resource for those looking to bring their innovative ideas to market. With structured workshops, personalized mentorship, and potential funding opportunities, this program equips you with the tools and knowledge you need to succeed. Take the first step towards transforming your idea into a viable business by joining Trailblazer + ProtoZone today!
