- Open continuously
Overview
The Incubation program, based on the Venture Mentoring Service (VMS) methodology developed by MIT, aims to support companies with a minimum viable product by providing strategic mentorship from a network of experienced mentors. This year-long program offers access to various services including professional workshops, pitch clinics, and exclusive financing sources, designed to propel commercial success and support internationalization efforts.
At a glance
Funding available
- Develop a new product or service
- Reduce environmental footprint
- Access new markets
- Varies by project
- Open continuously
Eligible candidates
- Information and cultural industries
- Arts, entertainment and recreation
- Montréal
- Quebec
- For-profit business
- All revenue ranges
- All organization sizes
- Startups
Next Steps
Activities funded
The Incubation program by Zú is designed to support companies that have already developed a minimum viable product and are looking to expand their commercialization and market growth. Participants will engage in strategic activities to strengthen their business operations and innovation capacities.
- Engaging in monthly mentor meetings based on MIT-VMS principles to gain impartial and confidential insights.
- Participating in collaborative workshops and presentations to enhance business strategies.
- Accessing a network of experts for consultations in various domains such as technical, legal, financial, and tax-related aspects.
- Networking with a National Bank advisor for insights into the creative industries.
- Exploring business development opportunities through Zú’s open innovation programs with large corporations.
- Participating in pitch clinics to refine presentation skills and attract potential investors.
- Using work and meeting spaces in downtown Montreal to facilitate project development.
- Engaging with international support networks and participating in trade missions to expand business reach.
- Utilizing co-coaching opportunities with other incubator partners if needed to address specific challenges.
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
This incubation program is designed for companies that have developed a minimum viable product (MVP) and are seeking to grow their business with the help of mentors. Companies may be based in Quebec, elsewhere in Canada, or internationally, if they have intentions to contribute to the Quebecois economy. The program does not limit application to specific industries but requires applicants to have a viable business concept ready for acceleration through mentoring and professional development services.
Eligible expenses
The incubation program eligible for this grant primarily focuses on fostering business growth through mentorship and access to specialized resources. Activities aim to provide strategic decision-making support and tools to enhance commercial success.
- Participation in the Venture Mentoring Service based on the MIT methodology, including monthly group meetings with three mentors.
- Access to workshops and meetings with professional experts in various domains such as legal, tax, and finance.
- Engagement with the National Bank’s Creative Industries Group advisor for personalized business guidance.
- Involvement in monthly pitch clinics to refine presentation and pitching skills.
- Opportunities to participate in innovation challenges and international trade missions.
- Access to exclusive financing sources available to incubated companies.
- Use of meeting and work spaces in the Zú Atrium and participation in Zú events.
Additional information
Here are additional relevant details for the incubation grant with Zú:
- The incubation program offers services valued at over $50,000 per year without taking equity in the company.
- Mentors come from significant entrepreneurial backgrounds in technology and creative industries.
- Applications can be submitted at any time, with periodic evaluations 3 to 4 times a year.
- Confidentiality is ensured through NDAs signed by all involved parties.
- The program is open to participants outside Quebec if they plan to contribute to Quebec's economy.
- The fee structure is contingent on the geographical location of the applicant (Quebec, other Canadian regions, or international).