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ventureLAB's 2025 Entrepreneurship and Innovation Fund supports nonprofits that serve underrepresented communities and founders developing Agri-tech and Cleantech innovations.
The Entrepreneurship and Innovation Fund encourages innovation by fully supporting promising early stage start-ups, accelerators, incubators, and community partners. With a contribution of $100,000 from York Region for 2025, this fund will support further development in York Region and beyond.
Refine your story as delivery with personalized sessions - an exclusive opportunity to boost your confidence and win any pitch
Selected companies receive an exclusive booth at HardTech Summit to demo their technology and connect with over 1,100+ attendees, including investors, industry leaders, and media.
Up to three opportunities to pitch and stand before investors, government, and tech leaders and turn visibility into traction
(Please Note: The key dates may be subject to change)
Non-Profits / Community Partners that Serve Underrepresented Communities
ventureLAB and The Regional Municipality of York are committed to cultivating an inclusive community. We celebrate diversity and strive to create an environment where everyone can participate fully in society. Our goal is to ensure all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, free from discrimination.
In recognition of this, Stream 1 of the 2025 Entrepreneurship and Innovation Fund will award two qualified non-profit organizations with $10,000 each. The funding will support activities or initiatives that promote, support, or enhance entrepreneurship or innovation for underrepresented communities in York Region and beyond.
Applications are open until August 29, 2025 5:00 PM EST
Application Requirements
Completed application form including:
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Non-profit organizations must be able to showcase their proven track record of delivering programs and services in York Region, specifically for underrepresented communities
Fund guidlines:
Non-profit organizations must be able to showcase their proven track record of delivering programs and services in York Region, specifically for underrepresented communities.
Fund Guidelines:
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Applicant organizations are limited to one application per project each round fulfilling the following eligibility criteria:
Applicant organizations are limited to one application per project each round fulfilling the following eligibility criteria:
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According to the Government of Canada, the four groups designated by the Employment Equity Act are: Indigenous, Racialized Individuals, Persons with disabilities, and Women.
In the Innovation and Entrepreneurship sector, the LGBTQ2+, Refugee, and Immigrant communities also make up underrepresented groups
Innovation is relative and dynamic. We are seeking projects that will generate excitement and drive innovation, elevating sustainability in York Region and beyond while expanding inclusion, diversity, and accessibility.
- Information and knowledge dissemination through workshops
- Community outreach and engagement
- Digitizing communities
- Individuals or for-profit entities
- Any companies or organizations participating as part of the selection committee
Upon the successful submission of application form and accompanying documents (project plan, budget, financial statements) A Review Committee comprised of ventureLAB, Regional Staff and key innovation stakeholders, will evaluate the applications based on the following areas:
-Community impact and economic benefits for York Region
-Organizational capacity and governance
-Collaborative innovation, i.e. are you collaborating with other
regional partners for this project
-Diversity, equity and inclusion, i.e. how are you meeting the needs of underrepresented communities
-Clarity and completeness of the project application
Previously funded recipients will not be eligible for two consecutive rounds of funding, so if you are looking to reapply, you cannot be a 2024 EIF recipient.
Previously funded recipients (excluding 2024 recipients) must put forward a new project or initiative in order to apply for another round of funding.
According to the Government of Canada, the four groups designated by the Employment Equity Act are: Indigenous, Racialized Individuals, Persons with disabilities, and Women.
In the Innovation and Entrepreneurship sector, the LGBTQ2+, Refugee, and Immigrant communities also make up underrepresented groups.
Innovation is relative and dynamic. We are seeking projects that will generate excitement and drive innovation, elevating sustainability in York Region and beyond while expanding inclusion, diversity, and accessibility.
Upon the successful submission of application form and accompanying documents (project plan, budget, financial statements) a Review Committee comprised of ventureLAB, Regional Staff and key innovation stakeholders, will evaluate the applications based on the following areas:
Previously funded recipients will not be eligible for two consecutive rounds of funding, so if you are looking to reapply, you cannot be a 2024 EIF recipient.
Previously funded recipients (excluding 2024 recipients) must put forward a new project or initiative in order to apply for another round of funding.
All EIF winners will be announced at the HardTech Summit. We ask all winners to attend the event to accept their award and represent their organization — it’s a valuable opportunity to gain visibility, celebrate your achievement, and connect with industry partners and peers.
We strongly encourage winners located outside the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) to attend if possible. However, we understand travel may not always be feasible. If your organization is based outside the GTA and cannot attend in person, please connect with our team in advance — we will work with you on alternative arrangements to ensure your achievement is recognized.
The Investment Readiness Program is open to Canadian hardtech and deeptech startups working in sectors like MedTech, semiconductors, AI, advanced manufacturing, and other hardware-driven innovations. Eligibility varies slightly depending on the stream:
Investment Readiness Series (Cohort-Based Program):
- Ideal for early-stage startups that are preparing to fundraise within the next 3–12 months. Founders should have a working prototype, early traction or validation, and be ready to develop their capital strategy, investor materials, and due diligence documentation.
Investment Readiness Advisory (1-on-1 and Small Group Support):
- Designed for startups actively in the fundraising process. Founders should already have a defined funding target, preliminary investor materials (pitch deck, financial model, etc.), and a clear use of funds. This stream provides targeted support to strengthen investor engagement and close rounds.
All applicants must be committed to participating actively in the program and be building innovation-driven, scalable businesses.
The Investment Readiness Program is best suited for hardtech and deeptech founders who are serious about raising capital and scaling their venture. Whether you're just beginning to plan your fundraising strategy or actively speaking with investors, this program offers the tools, guidance, and connections to move you forward.
Ideal participants include:
- Founders building in sectors like MedTech, AI, semiconductors, robotics, cleantech, or advanced hardware
- Startups with a working prototype, early traction, or strong technical validation
- Founders looking to develop or refine their capital strategy, pitch materials, and financial model
- Teams seeking expert guidance, investor feedback, and strategic connections to close their next round
If you're committed to building an investable, innovation-driven business—this program is designed for you.
No, we take no equity in your company. Capital Investment Program founders get tailored, dedicated guidance to navigate your unique business growth goals. You’ll develop relationships in a growing global community of mentors, investors, partners, manufacturers, supply chains, and fellow entrepreneurs, critical to the growth and scaling of your business.
- The time commitment depends on which stream of the program you join:
Investment Readiness Series (Cohort-Based Program): This is a structured 3-month program that requires a commitment of approximately 5–10 hours per week. Founders will participate in weekly workshops, peer learning sessions, and 1-on-1 advisory meetings. Additional time will be spent applying insights by building or refining key fundraising materials such as your pitch deck, financial model, and data room documents.
- Investment Readiness Advisory (1-on-1 and Small Group Engagements): This stream is a longer-term, flexible engagement tailored to the specific funding round you’re currently raising. Advisory relationships typically last 3–6 months, depending on your needs and goals. Founders are expected to meet regularly with advisors, implement feedback, and share updates frequently to make tangible progress toward closing their round.
Regardless of the stream, founders should be prepared to actively engage, dedicate focused time, and follow through on key deliverables in order to get the most value from the program.
The Investment Readiness Program is open to Canadian hardtech and deeptech startups working in sectors like MedTech, semiconductors, AI, advanced manufacturing, and other hardware-driven innovations. Eligibility varies slightly depending on the stream:
All applicants must be committed to participating actively in the program and be building innovation-driven, scalable businesses.
The Investment Readiness Program is best suited for hardtech and deeptech founders who are serious about raising capital and scaling their venture. Whether you're just beginning to plan your fundraising strategy or actively speaking with investors, this program offers the tools, guidance, and connections to move you forward.
Ideal participants include:
If you're committed to building an investable, innovation-driven business—this program is designed for you.
No, we take no equity in your company. Capital Investment Program founders get tailored, dedicated guidance to navigate your unique business growth goals. You’ll develop relationships in a growing global community of mentors, investors, partners, manufacturers, supply chains, and fellow entrepreneurs, critical to the growth and scaling of your business.
The time commitment depends on which stream of the program you join:
Regardless of the stream, founders should be prepared to actively engage, dedicate focused time, and follow through on key deliverables in order to get the most value from the program.
Small Businesses or Entrepreneurs Developing Agri-tech and Clean-tech Solutions
To stimulate, promote, and support innovations in this sector, Stream Two of the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Fund is dedicated to encourage and enhance entrepreneurship and innovation in Agri-tech and/or Clean-tech by opening more doors to capital. The fund will award 7 qualified small businesses and entrepreneurs with $10,000 each to support the growth of innovative clean-tech and agri-tech solutions that support and enhance social and environmental sustainability in York Region and beyond.
York Region is Canada’s second largest tech hub and fourth-largest food and beverage processing hub. Home to growing urban centers and a mix of players spanning the entire Agri-food value chain, the Region is undergoing an Agri-food evolution.
Applications are open until August 29, 2025 5:00 PM EST
Application Requirements
Completed application form including:
Your application should showcase how the funding will accelerate your company’s growth and support innovation and sustainability in York Region among other targeted impact areas.
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Non-profit organizations must be able to showcase their proven track record of delivering programs and services in York Region, specifically for underrepresented communities
Fund guidlines:
Applicant organizations are limited to one application per project each round fulfilling the following eligibility criteria:
Applicant organizations are limited to one application per project each round fulfilling the following eligibility criteria:
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Selection Criteria:
A Review Committee, comprised of ventureLAB, Regional Staff and key innovation stakeholders, will evaluate the applications based on the following areas:
Previously funded recipients will not be eligible for two consecutive rounds of funding, so if you are looking to reapply, you cannot be a 2024 EIF recipient.
Previously funded recipients (excluding 2024 recipients) must put forward a new project or initiative in order to apply for another round of funding
All EIF winners will be announced at the HardTech Summit. We ask all winners to attend the event to accept their award and represent their organization — it’s a valuable opportunity to gain visibility, celebrate your achievement, and connect with industry partners and peers.
We strongly encourage winners located outside the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) to attend if possible. However, we understand travel may not always be feasible. If your organization is based outside the GTA and cannot attend in person, please connect with our team in advance — we will work with you on alternative arrangements to ensure your achievement is recognized.
The Investment Readiness Program is open to Canadian hardtech and deeptech startups working in sectors like MedTech, semiconductors, AI, advanced manufacturing, and other hardware-driven innovations. Eligibility varies slightly depending on the stream:
Investment Readiness Series (Cohort-Based Program):
- Ideal for early-stage startups that are preparing to fundraise within the next 3–12 months. Founders should have a working prototype, early traction or validation, and be ready to develop their capital strategy, investor materials, and due diligence documentation.
Investment Readiness Advisory (1-on-1 and Small Group Support):
- Designed for startups actively in the fundraising process. Founders should already have a defined funding target, preliminary investor materials (pitch deck, financial model, etc.), and a clear use of funds. This stream provides targeted support to strengthen investor engagement and close rounds.
All applicants must be committed to participating actively in the program and be building innovation-driven, scalable businesses.
The Investment Readiness Program is best suited for hardtech and deeptech founders who are serious about raising capital and scaling their venture. Whether you're just beginning to plan your fundraising strategy or actively speaking with investors, this program offers the tools, guidance, and connections to move you forward.
Ideal participants include:
- Founders building in sectors like MedTech, AI, semiconductors, robotics, cleantech, or advanced hardware
- Startups with a working prototype, early traction, or strong technical validation
- Founders looking to develop or refine their capital strategy, pitch materials, and financial model
- Teams seeking expert guidance, investor feedback, and strategic connections to close their next round
If you're committed to building an investable, innovation-driven business—this program is designed for you.
No, we take no equity in your company. Capital Investment Program founders get tailored, dedicated guidance to navigate your unique business growth goals. You’ll develop relationships in a growing global community of mentors, investors, partners, manufacturers, supply chains, and fellow entrepreneurs, critical to the growth and scaling of your business.
- The time commitment depends on which stream of the program you join:
Investment Readiness Series (Cohort-Based Program): This is a structured 3-month program that requires a commitment of approximately 5–10 hours per week. Founders will participate in weekly workshops, peer learning sessions, and 1-on-1 advisory meetings. Additional time will be spent applying insights by building or refining key fundraising materials such as your pitch deck, financial model, and data room documents.
- Investment Readiness Advisory (1-on-1 and Small Group Engagements): This stream is a longer-term, flexible engagement tailored to the specific funding round you’re currently raising. Advisory relationships typically last 3–6 months, depending on your needs and goals. Founders are expected to meet regularly with advisors, implement feedback, and share updates frequently to make tangible progress toward closing their round.
Regardless of the stream, founders should be prepared to actively engage, dedicate focused time, and follow through on key deliverables in order to get the most value from the program.
The Investment Readiness Program is open to Canadian hardtech and deeptech startups working in sectors like MedTech, semiconductors, AI, advanced manufacturing, and other hardware-driven innovations. Eligibility varies slightly depending on the stream:
All applicants must be committed to participating actively in the program and be building innovation-driven, scalable businesses.
The Investment Readiness Program is best suited for hardtech and deeptech founders who are serious about raising capital and scaling their venture. Whether you're just beginning to plan your fundraising strategy or actively speaking with investors, this program offers the tools, guidance, and connections to move you forward.
Ideal participants include:
If you're committed to building an investable, innovation-driven business—this program is designed for you.
No, we take no equity in your company. Capital Investment Program founders get tailored, dedicated guidance to navigate your unique business growth goals. You’ll develop relationships in a growing global community of mentors, investors, partners, manufacturers, supply chains, and fellow entrepreneurs, critical to the growth and scaling of your business.
The time commitment depends on which stream of the program you join:
Regardless of the stream, founders should be prepared to actively engage, dedicate focused time, and follow through on key deliverables in order to get the most value from the program.
According to the Government of Canada, the four groups designated by the Employment Equity Act are: Indigenous, Racialized Individuals, Persons with disabilities, and Women.
In the Innovation and Entrepreneurship sector, the LGBTQ2+, Refugee, and Immigrant communities also make up underrepresented groups
Innovation is relative and dynamic. We are seeking projects that will generate excitement and drive innovation, elevating sustainability in York Region and beyond while expanding inclusion, diversity, and accessibility.
- Information and knowledge dissemination through workshops
- Community outreach and engagement
- Digitizing communities
- Individuals or for-profit entities
- Any companies or organizations participating as part of the selection committee
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