Elevate

For Ontario-based startups working at the intersection of innovation, creativity, and impact, Elevate offers a different kind of support than a traditional cash-only grant. Built around the idea that strong businesses grow through ideas, connections, and exposure, this program brings founders into a community of creative thinkers, innovators, and emerging artists who are actively shaping the future of technology, commerce, and sustainability in Canada.

Through Elevate’s programming and its flagship Elevate Festival, participating startups gain access to expert-led discussions, influential speakers, and peer-driven learning opportunities. The focus is on helping early-stage businesses sharpen their thinking, strengthen their e-commerce capabilities, and tackle real-world challenges such as sustainable growth and inclusive innovation. Rather than prescribing a one-size-fits-all model, Elevate supports a wide range of projects and initiatives, with non-repayable support that can vary depending on the nature of the involvement and outcomes being pursued.

This opportunity is especially relevant for founders who value mentorship, visibility, and community alongside practical business development. By engaging with Elevate, startups can position themselves within a broader innovation ecosystem that includes mission-driven organizations, industry leaders, and public-sector partners. For entrepreneurs looking to understand how this program could support their specific goals and stage of growth, exploring the full details can help determine whether Elevate is the right fit.