Accelerate Entrepreneur

Turning academic research into a viable startup is often where momentum can stall, especially for student and postdoctoral founders juggling development, validation, and early commercialization. Accelerate Entrepreneur, delivered by Mitacs, is designed to bridge that gap by helping founders across Canada move their technology or product toward market faster while continuing to build their venture. Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, the program adapts to where a startup can make the biggest gains, whether that’s refining core technology, testing market applications, or strengthening commercialization plans.

What sets Accelerate Entrepreneur apart is its focus on paying student and postdoctoral entrepreneurs to work on their own incorporated startups through funded research internships. Projects typically run over shorter, fast-moving timelines to match the realities of startup growth, with the flexibility to scale or extend when additional development time is needed. With the support of an approved incubator and a post-secondary partner, founders gain both financial backing and structured research support, helping them build entrepreneurial skills while advancing their business.

Because funding levels and project structures vary depending on scope and duration, this program can suit a wide range of early-stage ventures across industries. For student-led startups looking to accelerate commercialization without taking on debt, exploring the full details of Accelerate Entrepreneur can clarify whether it aligns with your growth plans.