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Go From Validation to Market Success

Whether you’re proving problem-solution fit or building a repeatable sales engine, LevelUp is your blueprint for sustainable growth.

Apply for the Next Cohort

The LevelUP Experience

 
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You are an Ontario-based technology company (CleanTech, HealthTech, AgTech, Digital IT, etc).
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You have moved beyond the "idea" phase and have a production-ready product or MVP.
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You are committed to 4–12 weeks of intensive, hands-on growth work.
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You are looking for a $0-equity, high-impact community to accelerate your journey.

Two Tracks. One Goal.

Every business is unique. Some founders start at the beginning to validate their assumptions, while others with established traction are ready to pour fuel on the fire.

LevelUP has two specialized tracks designed for tech founders ready to stop guessing and start winning.

 

Knowledge Transfer

Knowledge Transfer

Gain hands-on experience in essential business skills—from marketing and branding to funding and exit strategy—through expert-led workshops and 1-1 mentorship.

Peer Learning

Networking & Peer Learning

Build valuable relationships with industry leaders, potential partners, and fellow entrepreneurs. Connect with like-minded founders and learn from each other’s experiences.

Traction 2

Traction

Develop actionable strategies to drive measurable business growth, expand your customer base, and strengthen your market position.

Fundraising

Funding Preparation

Learn how to navigate the fundraising process and gain the confidence to approach investors.

Pitch Development

Pitch Development

Refine your pitch through practice and constructive feedback. Learn to communicate your business and value to customers, investors, and stakeholders.

Progress

Execution & Growth

Apply what you learn each week through practical exercises and expert feedback to ensure progress toward your business goals.

What LevelUP Participants Have to Say

"The 12-week LevelUP program was an incredible experience that expanded my knowledge and connected me with a community of fellow startup founders. What truly sets this program apart is the genuine investment the team took in my business's success. Their support goes beyond education; they are truly committed to helping startups thrive."

Andrew Nokes

Founder & CEO, Creativity By Code
Andrew Nokes
"Participating in the Innovation Cluster’s LevelUP program was an incredible experience. The program also taught us how to map out a strategic roadmap, turning our vision into clear, actionable steps. Thanks to LevelUP, Kuwota is ready to grow and make a real impact in the mental health space.”

Kinen Ocitti

CEO & Founder, Kuwota
Kinen Ocitti
“Being part of the LevelUP program has been an incredible learning experience. The program's structure over the 12-week period taught us the importance of holding each other accountable to boost productivity, uplift one another, and ensure tasks are completed and milestones are met.”

Latchmi Raghunanan Ph.D

CEO & Founder, Maman Biomedical
Latchmi Raghunanan Ph.D

The 6 Month Recipe for Success

In the LevelUP Business Accelerator, you’ll learn how to take your business from MVP to growth-stage. 

In 6 months, you’ll refine your strategy, prepare for market entry, and position yourself for funding. Each week brings new insights, hands-on workshops, and expert guidance to equip you for the next stage of growth.

Secure Your Spot in the Next LevelUp Cohort

Each LevelUp cohort has space for 15 founder teams. Participants are selected based on readiness.  

Application

Apply for our next cohort by submitting your application, including key details about your business and the founders.

Assessment

If your application meets our criteria, we’ll contact you for an interview to learn more about your business, and assess how LevelUP can support your growth.

Acceptance

If you’re selected, you’ll receive your official invitation to join the LevelUP Business Accelerator and begin your 12-week journey when the next cohort starts.

2026 LevelUP Program Timeline

Applications Close: April 17th, 2026
Cohort Kick Off: May 13th, 2026

 

Program dates are subject to change to ensure optimal support for participating founders.

FAQs About the LevelUp Business Accelerator

Don’t see your question? Feel free to reach out to our program team.

Zahra Shafiei 
Director of Programs

Zshafiei@innovationcluster.ca

Ann-Majella Mckelvie-Tait
Program Coordinator

ammckelvie@innovationcluster.ca

What types of businesses are eligible for the LevelUP Business Accelerator?

The program is designed for tech-based and innovative ventures with a minimum viable product (MVP) who are looking to refine their strategy, scale, and expand their market. Eligible industries include agritech, cleantech, health/medtech, nuclear tech, and digital IT.

How much time do I need to commit to the program?

Workshops are held once a week on Wednesdays for up to 3 hours, and weekly attendance is mandatory. The more hours you dedicate to practice, applying the knowledge, and engaging in mentorship and pitch practice, the better the results.

Is the LevelUP Business Accelerator in-person or virtual?

The program is hybrid, offering both in-person and virtual options depending on your preference and location. We recommend attending in person as it enhances engagement and networking opportunities. Please note that the final pitch competition will be held in person in Peterborough.

Ready to Accelerate Your Startup Journey?

Join the Waitlist