Business Incubator
The Forge Business Incubator is designed to support startups by providing tailored resources and mentorship to foster growth and innovation. This program offers a supportive environment for startups that have moved beyond the idea stage, either by launching to the market or developing a working prototype (MVP). The Forge runs three cohorts annually in January, May, and September, welcoming startups from various sectors, including software, hardware, healthcare, cleantech, consumer goods, and medical devices.
Funded by McMaster University, The Forge aims to nurture entrepreneurship in the Hamilton and Greater Toronto Area (GTA) without taking equity in the companies it supports. The program offers extensive benefits, including one-on-one mentorship, professional support in areas like IP, legal, and finance, funding opportunities, access to a makerspace, and PR/media exposure.
Eligibility Criteria and Application Process
Eligibility:
- Product Development: Startups should have a functional MVP or evidence of market traction, such as sales, pre-sales, significant partnerships, or letters of intent.
- Passionate Founders: The program seeks founders passionate about solving significant problems with innovative solutions.
- Full-Time Dedication: At least one founder should be fully dedicated to the startup or on track to commit full-time.
- Coachability: Founders should be dynamic, collaborative, and open to guidance.
To apply for The Forge Business Incubator, submit your application, which will be reviewed by the team. Selected candidates will be invited to a virtual interview, including a 5-minute pitch, after which successful applicants will receive an invitation to join the program.
Startup Survivor
Startup Survivor is a four-month innovation program and pitch competition for McMaster University students and recent alumni, offering $80,000 in total cash prizes. Participants engage in business and technical challenges focused on customer discovery, business modeling, rapid prototyping, go-to-market strategy, and pitching to investors. The program includes educational workshops with experts, weekly one-on-one mentorship, and feedback from external judges. Teams are awarded $1,000 per challenge, with additional funding available for projects focused on smart, sustainable, and autonomous transportation solutions.
The program culminates in a final pitch competition, where the top five finalists deliver a 5-minute pitch to a live audience and a panel of esteemed judges. After deliberations, winners are crowned and awarded the remaining $30,000 from the prize pool.
Eligibility and Application Process
Eligibility:
- At least one founding team member must be a current McMaster University student or a recent alumni (within 1 year of your graduation).
- Open to all faculties and levels (undergraduate and graduate), and teams can include domestic or international students.
- Businesses can be from any industry sector.
Once open, submit a brief eligibility form. Eligible applicants must attend a workshop to gain information for completing the application package. The first challenge submission is due by March 31, followed by interviews for top applicants in early April. The top 10 teams will be invited to participate in the program from May to August.