Top 10 Canadian Startup Accelerators in 2025

Canada’s innovation ecosystem is thriving in 2025, with accelerators playing a critical role in helping founders scale new ventures. From AI and biotech to cleantech and fintech, these accelerators provide capital, mentorship, and access to global networks. Here are the top 10 Canadian startup accelerators in 2025.

1. Creative Destruction Lab (CDL)

One of Canada’s most influential accelerators, CDL specializes in science-based and deep-tech startups. With programs across Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, and Calgary, CDL provides structured mentorship, equity investment opportunities, and guidance from accomplished entrepreneurs and investors.

2. NextAI

Based in Toronto and Montreal, NextAI focuses exclusively on artificial intelligence and machine learning ventures. Startups receive seed funding, world-class mentorship, and technical validation to transform early concepts into high-growth companies.

3. DMZ (Toronto Metropolitan University)

Ranked among the world’s top university incubators, DMZ supports early-stage tech startups with mentorship, workspace, investor access, and tailored programming. Alumni include companies that have gone on to raise hundreds of millions in funding.

4. FounderFuel (Montreal)

A well-regarded accelerator for technology startups, FounderFuel offers a structured 12-week program that includes seed capital, mentorship, and a strong alumni community.

5. Launch Academy (Vancouver)

A hub for early-stage entrepreneurs, Launch Academy offers pre-accelerator and accelerator tracks, helping startups validate ideas, scale products, and connect with investors across Canada and Asia.

6. Communitech (Kitchener–Waterloo)

Based in Canada’s “Silicon Valley,” Communitech provides acceleration, incubation, and growth programs. It serves as a bridge between startups, corporate partners, and investors, with a strong focus on scaling globally.

7. MaRS Discovery District (Toronto)

One of North America’s largest innovation hubs, MaRS offers comprehensive support for startups in health, cleantech, fintech, and enterprise software. Its programs provide market insights, mentorship, and venture funding opportunities.

8. Innovacorp (Nova Scotia)

Focused on early-stage startups, Innovacorp provides seed funding, incubation space, and mentorship. It plays a central role in nurturing Atlantic Canada’s innovation ecosystem.

9. TEC Edmonton (Alberta)

A joint initiative of the University of Alberta and the city, TEC Edmonton supports technology commercialization through mentorship, networking, and investor introductions.

10. Velocity (University of Waterloo)

One of the world’s leading university-based incubators, Velocity provides non-dilutive funding, access to labs, and workspace for early-stage startups. Many successful Canadian tech companies trace their roots back to this program.

Accelerator Snapshot

Canadian accelerators are helping founders build globally competitive startups, blending regional strengths with international networks. For entrepreneurs applying to these programs, preparing polished investor-ready materials is essential. Peony offers AI-powered document organization, branded data rooms, and engagement analytics—helping founders showcase their ventures with confidence.