Incubators, accelerators and tech hubs are dedicated to nurturing early-stage companies – providing them with the tools, resources and mentorship needed to grow and succeed.
Canada has become as a leading global hub for innovation, thanks to incubators and accelerators that are helping new companies grow within its dynamic ecosystem. These industry support organizations are essential for driving growth and success, offering resources for market entry, R&D, commercialization and strategic networking.
We’re fortunate to have a few in our Waterloo community, including The Accelerator Centre, Velocity and Communitech, which is located in Kitchener, one of the region’s three cities. More on these below.
These top incubators and accelerators continue to play a crucial role in shaping the future of industries within Canada and on a global scale. Home to more than 20 unicorn companies as of 2024, the focus on helping start-ups grow is extremely important.
Continue reading to learn more about some of the leading organizations committed to the development, expansion and innovation of Canadian companies.
DMZ, Toronto
Located at Toronto Metropolitan University, DMZ is a leading startup incubator, committed to equipping the next generation of industry leaders. Known for its extensive partnerships, mentorship programs and commitment to scaling business, their global reputation and network make it a central hub for tech startups.
Creative Destruction Lab (CDL), Toronto
Originating from the University of Toronto, CDL excels in scaling science-based companies on a global scale. The lab provides seed-stage companies with objective-based mentoring by accomplished entrepreneurs, angel investors, economists and scientists.
MaRS Discovery District, Toronto
As North America’s largest urban innovation hub, MaRS supports 1,400 Canadian science and tech companies, offering tailored resources for every stage of growth. With focuses on cleantech, healthcare, fintech and enterprise software, their 1.5M square-foot space in downtown Toronto is their home base for supporting companies.
The Accelerator Centre, Waterloo
The Accelerator Centre offers a unique acceleration program to help companies quickly and efficiently bring their ideas to life. By providing funding, access to partners, various industry resources and a selection of customizable opportunities – Canada’s top accelerator has all the tools needed to power successful businesses.
Velocity, Kitchener
Created by the University of Waterloo and located in Kitchener’s Tannery Building, Velocity guides early-stage entrepreneurs in building companies that scale. The incubator provides new companies access to a variety of connections, business expertise and a wide range of space and equipment to develop their team and products. Having incubated 400+ companies and created 5,000+ jobs, they continue to nurture a strong pipeline of founders.
Communitech, Kitchener
Canada’s top and most broad-reaching innovation hub, Communitech has been helping Canadian tech founders scale their businesses for over 25 years. By providing access to talent, resources and mentorship through programs like Team True North, Communitech continues equip Canadian entrepreneurs with what they need to succeed on a global stage.
L-Spark, Ottawa
L-Spark holds the title of Canada’s largest SaaS accelerator, providing companies with exclusive access to leading-edge technology and helping them build the foundation to raise capital, grow revenues and reach global markets. Their specialization, mentorship and resources tailored to industry specific startups play a key role in supporting business growth.
Foresight Cleantech Accelerator Centre, Vancouver
As a leader in cleantech innovation within Canada, Foresight specializes in accelerating sustainable technology companies. Aiming to fast-track the development and adoption of Canadian climate solutions to reach net zero, it plays a key role in Canada’s green initiatives.
Platform Calgary, Calgary
Platform Calgary is dedicated to supporting startups and fostering innovation in Calgary. It offers comprehensive programs, mentorship and resources to help tech entrepreneurs build successful companies. By focusing on technology and innovation-driven enterprises, Platform Calgary plays a crucial role in Alberta’s tech ecosystem, providing a strong support network for emerging businesses.
North Forge Technology Exchange, Winnipeg
North Forge is an innovation-based economic development agency that supports Manitoba’s entrepreneurs and startups. Offering mentorship, access to a state-of-the-art fabrication lab and funding opportunities, North Forge helps startups move from idea to market. As a central player in Manitoba’s tech scene, North Forge is instrumental in driving growth and innovation in the region.
TandemLaunch, Montreal
Specializing in creating startups from cutting-edge university research, TandemLaunch meets entrepreneurs and companies where they’re at. Unlike traditional incubators, it takes pride in not offering a large amount of funding but instead providing extensive mentorship, coaching and co-creation opportunities.
Volta, Halifax
As the largest innovation hub in Atlantic Canada, Volta offers comprehensive support for tech entrepreneurs, including mentorship, workspace and investor networks. It provides a range of services to resident startups, including access to experienced advisors, a comprehensive performance framework and a suite of tools and resources to help them grow their businesses.
From idea to impact
Startup incubators are like powerful allies for Canadian businesses, providing them with everything they need to succeed, and there are many more than we’ve listed in this article. These support systems offer resources, connections and mentorship, helping companies overcome obstacles and bring their products to market.
We can connect you with organizations and partners to help your business thrive.