Applications are open for the Next 36 Program 2027, an initiative by NEXT Canada designed to support entrepreneurial undergraduates and recent graduates. The program aims to identify and nurture 36 individuals from across Canada who demonstrate the potential to build significant ventures. It is structured to assist founders with pre-existing early-stage startups or those with an idea they wish to develop into a viable business.
Program Structure
• Program Type: A high-touch program featuring academic lectures, mentorship, and workshops.
• Duration: The program spans eight months.
• Format: The initial four months, from January to April, are conducted virtually. The subsequent four months, from May to August, are delivered in-person in Toronto.
Benefits for Participants
• Education: Learn how to build, launch, and scale from successful entrepreneurs and award-winning faculty.
• Community and Network: Join a community of over 1,000 alumni and gain access to coaching, resources, and impactful ventures.
• Investor Access: Gain access to NEXT Canada’s investor network.
• Mentorship: Opportunity to be paired with a mentor who has successfully launched a venture.
• Workspace: Access to a productive workspace alongside other talented entrepreneurs.
• Partner Services: Receive support from partners, including services like cloud hosting and legal support.
Eligibility and Ideal Candidates
• Academic Background: The program accepts undergrads, master's students, and recent graduates from any academic discipline at schools across Canada.
• Venture Stage: Open to individuals with an early-stage venture or those looking to start a new one.
• Desired Traits: The program seeks Problem Solvers, Social Champions, Community Leaders, and Academic Leaders.
Participant Commitments
• Time Commitment: Must commit full-time to the program during the summer intensive period from May to August 2027.
• Location: Participants must be present in Toronto for required sessions during the summer.
• Participation: Mandatory participation in all program activities is required.
• Code of Conduct: All participants must abide by Next Canada’s code of conduct.
Application Details
• Required Information: The application requires details on education experience and short answer questions.
• Video Submission: A short video upload, with a maximum length of 60 seconds, answering an interview question is required.
• Application Deadline: The final date to submit applications is October 14, 2026, at 11:59 PM. Applicants can save their progress and return to the application at any time before the deadline.
For comprehensive details and to proceed with an application, interested individuals should visit the official Next 36 Program website.