Open
Source verified August 17, 2026
Zú program — Incubation
Strategic mentoring for MVP-stage companies
Latest source updateLast Update: August 24, 2026Latest change: The program page now directs applicants to two Microsoft Teams information sessions on September 16, 2026 instead of the previous direct application link.View change
Latest source update
Last Update: August 24, 2026
Latest change: The program page now directs applicants to two Microsoft Teams information sessions on September 16, 2026 instead of the previous direct application link.
Application access updated for Zú Program — Incubation
The Programs page replaced the direct application link with registration links for two Microsoft Teams information sessions. The sessions are scheduled for September 16, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for Pre-incubation and from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. for Incubation. This changes how applicants access the program and the route to apply or get program information.
Funding available
Varies by project
Deadline
Open continuously
Location
Canada
Who can apply
Companies that have developed a minimum viable product and demonstrated traction.
See full eligibility
Overview
Zú’s Incubation program supports companies that have developed a minimum viable product and demonstrated traction through a 12-month renewable program. It offers monthly mentoring, quarterly coaching follow-up, expert consultations, pitch clinics, and access to business development opportunities.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Develop a new product or service
- Reduce environmental footprint
- Access new markets
Eligible Funding
- Varies by project
Funds Providers
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Canada
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
- Monthly group mentoring meetings with a team of high-caliber mentors.
- Quarterly coaching objectives and follow-up with Zú’s team of advisors.
- Individual consultations with technical, legal, financial, and tax experts.
- Collaborative workshops, business partner presentations, and pitch clinics.
- Business development support through open innovation initiatives and international trade missions.
Documents Needed
- Application form
- Application video
Official resources
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Companies that have developed a minimum viable product and demonstrated traction.
- Companies not initially based in Québec may be accepted if they intend to establish operations in Québec or already contribute to the Québec economy.
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.
Selection criteria
- Stage of development, including MVP and traction.
- Growth potential and commercialization readiness.
- Fit with the program’s objectives.
- Clarity of strategic goals and business development needs.
How to apply
- Complete the application form.
- Submit the single application form, which is open year-round.
Processing and Agreement
- The selection committee will review the applications.
- If selected, you will be invited to an interview.
- You will receive the final result.
- Each evaluation cycle takes approximately 3 to 4 weeks.
- Results are shared within 3 to 5 weeks after the application deadline.
Additional information
- The program is renewable.
- Confidentiality is protected through NDAs signed by participants and the program team.
- Applications are reviewed periodically, 3 to 4 times per year.
- Companies outside Quebec may be accepted if they intend to establish operations in Quebec or already contribute to the Quebec economy.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Zú program — Incubation Program
What is the Zú program — Incubation?
Zú’s Incubation program supports companies that have developed a minimum viable product and demonstrated traction through a 12-month renewable program. It offers monthly mentoring, quarterly coaching follow-up, expert consultations, pitch clinics, and access to business development opportunities.
Who is eligible for the Zú program — Incubation program?
To be eligible for the Zú program — Incubation program, you must:
Minimum viable product
Demonstrated traction
Commercialization and growth goals
What expenses are eligible under Zú program — Incubation?
Monthly group mentoring meetings with a team of high-caliber mentors.
Quarterly coaching objectives and follow-up with Zú’s team of advisors.
Individual consultations with technical, legal, financial, and tax experts.
Collaborative workshops, business partner presentations, and pitch clinics.
Business development support through open innovation initiatives and international trade missions.
Where is the Zú program — Incubation available?
The Zú program — Incubation program is available across Canada.
Is the Zú program — Incubation a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Zú program — Incubation is a Expert Advice