Powered by Desjardins, Startup in Residence is an acceleration program that supports and invests in early-stage technology companies with strong growth potential and a positive socio-economic impact in Canada. Through its ESG-focused call for applications, the program supports impact-driven startups developing solutions that integrate environmental, social, and governance principles. The program is human-centered and designed to help growth-oriented founders reach market success while strengthening investment readiness and prioritizing founder well-being.
Program Offerings and Structure
• Investment Potential: Selected companies may be eligible for up to $250,000 in investment from a $5M fund. The investment is structured as subordinated debt at a discount, convertible into preferred shares.
• Non-Dilutive Grant: A $15,000 non-dilutive grant is provided to finance external services such as legal, accounting, or design support.
• Hands-On Support: The 8-month acceleration program includes up to 100 hours of personalized coaching tailored to each startup’s specific challenges.
• Network Access: Participants gain access to an engaged network of mentors, experts, investors, and ecosystem partners.
• Office Space: Secure-access workspace is provided for 8 months, available 24/7 with full office amenities.
• Founder Well-Being: Access to mental health professionals and structured support throughout the program.
• On-Demand Support: A complementary service offers targeted 6–12 hour advisory mandates for startups and scale-ups seeking focused assistance.
Target Company Profile
The ESG call targets impact-driven technology startups operating in areas such as:
• Environmental Solutions: GHG reduction, energy efficiency, circular economy, and sustainable resource management.
• Social Innovation: Equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI), affordable housing, access to healthcare, and community-focused solutions.
• Governance & Trust: Ethical supply chains, impact measurement, regulatory compliance, and data protection solutions.
Startups must embed measurable impact into their business model and demonstrate scalable growth potential.
General Selection Criteria
• Must be incorporated in Canada.
• Must demonstrate clear environmental, social, or governance impact potential.
• Must be in the commercialization phase with first paying customers.
• Must have raised less than $1,000,000 in dilutive funding.
• At least one co-founder must work full-time in the venture.
• Must show strong growth ambition and openness to hands-on coaching.
Application and Selection Process
• Call for Applications: Startups apply through the ESG-themed call focused on enhancing the lives of Canadians through environmental, social, and governance innovation.
• Selection: Applications are reviewed by a selection committee. Shortlisted startups present their solution to a panel of experts and investors.
• Onboarding: Selected startups join a cohort and begin the structured 8-month acceleration program.
• Acceleration: Participants refine and scale their solutions with support from mentors, experts, and investors.
• Post-Program: After completion, eligible startups may receive an investment of up to $250,000.
ESG Call Details
Theme: How can impact tech companies enhance the lives of Canadians by integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations?
• Preferred Areas of Focus:
- Environmental: GHG reduction, energy efficiency, circular economy
- Social: EDI, affordable housing, access to healthcare
- Governance: Ethical supply chains, impact evaluation, data protection
• Important Dates:
- Application period opens January 26, 2026
- Information session: February 3, 2026
- Application deadline: February 20, 2026
• At Selection: Up to 4 startups will receive the full 8-month acceleration package, including a $15,000 non-dilutive grant, 100 hours of personalized support, office space, and potential eligibility for investment of up to $250,000.
For impact-driven entrepreneurs in Canada, the Startup in Residence ESG Accelerator provides funding, expert mentorship, dedicated workspace, and ecosystem access to scale sustainable and responsible innovation. Interested founders are encouraged to apply before the deadline and monitor official channels for updates.