AC:Incubate offers one-on-one expertise designed to assist founders in building, growing, and scaling their technology solutions. The program provides structured, milestone-based programming that allows participants to develop their ventures alongside other founders. The community-focused environment includes mentorship, events, funding opportunities, and access to partners, providing a comprehensive support system for entrepreneurs.
Program Structure and Phases
The program utilizes a proven framework for success, guiding startups through four distinct phases. This step-by-step approach pairs the daily activities of building a company with the necessary tools to create momentum, helping founders close knowledge gaps and achieve new business milestones.
• 01 Explore: Discover a product someone wants.
• 02 Build: Start with a solid business foundation.
• 03 Grow: Acquire customers and get investment ready.
• 04 Scale: Access resources to attain global success.
Eligibility Requirements
The AC:Incubate program is designed for early-stage, tech-based startups prepared to commit to growth and innovation. To be eligible for the program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
• Canadian Incorporation: The company must be incorporated in Ontario or federally, or the founders must be prepared to incorporate within 30 days of joining the program.
• Tech-Based: The program is open to tech-driven companies across all sectors, including fields such as AI, medtech, and fintech.
• Program Participation: Applicants should be startups that are prepared to engage with high-touch, hands-on programming.
• Founder Requirements: Founders must be a minimum of 18 years old, and at least one founder must be physically located in Canada.
Support and Resources
Participants in the program receive guidance and connections to a range of resources. The support is tailored to the unique needs of each business. While enrolled, founders have access to the following:
• Structured, milestone-based programming that meets founders where they are.
• The AC’s digital and in-person founder communities.
• Free events and workshops that help build networks and grow the business.
• One-to-one guidance with a team of in-house mentors and specialists.
• 1:1 investment advisory services and access to the AC's investor network when ready to raise capital.
• A dedicated Founder Experience Team to guide participants through the program and connect them to necessary resources.
• Access to the AC's Value Added Service Providers with up to $600,000 in credits and discounts from industry leaders like HubSpot, AWS, and Google for Startups.
This program is structured to provide comprehensive support at every stage of a startup's journey. By offering a combination of structured programming, expert mentorship, and access to a wide network of resources and partners, it aims to equip founders with the tools they need to build and scale their technology-based companies.