Women and gender-diverse founders are still underrepresented in Canada’s tech sector, especially when it comes to getting venture capital. Elevate Women+ aims to close that gap in Ontario by connecting founders with networks, skill-building, and investors to help their businesses grow. If you are building a company that uses technology or computers and want more than just a cash grant, Elevate Women+ might be right for you.
Elevate Women+ is not a traditional government grant. The program is run by Elevate, a non-profit organization—not a government agency. Instead of direct funding, Elevate Women+ focuses on your long-term growth by helping you access capital, mentorship, and Ontario’s innovation community.
Elevate Women+ is a program run by Elevate, a well-known Ontario non-profit that supports innovation. The program is designed for women-identified and gender-diverse founders and investors who are building technology-based companies with the potential to grow globally.
You may be a good fit for Elevate Women+ if:
Both early-stage and growth-stage startups can apply. You do not need to be making money yet, but you should have a clear plan for growth and a strong technology idea.
Elevate Women+ does not give out fixed cash grants. Instead, the program offers:
This program is helpful if you are getting ready to raise money or want to improve your investment pitch before talking to funders.
Through Elevate Women+, you can:
You can also use GrantHub’s eligibility matcher to find other Ontario programs that work well with Elevate Women+. Many founders combine this program with non-dilutive grants for even more support.
The application for Elevate Women+ is different from a typical grant. Instead of focusing on financial statements, you will need to share your growth story.
Be ready to talk about:
Elevate manages the program’s intake timelines and details. The program is currently open.
1. Thinking Elevate Women+ is a cash grant
This program does not give direct funding. It focuses on connections and support. Make sure you plan your finances separately.
2. Applying without a clear growth plan
Elevate Women+ is for companies that want to grow globally. It is not for lifestyle businesses.
3. Forgetting about other funding options
Many founders use Elevate Women+ with other grants. Skipping this can slow your progress.
4. Not preparing for investors
If your pitch is weak or your business metrics are unclear, you won’t get as much value from the program.
Q: Is Elevate Women+ a grant program?
No. Elevate Women+ is a support program. It helps you reach investors and mentors but does not provide a fixed grant.
Q: Do I need to be in Ontario to apply?
Yes, your business should have a strong Ontario presence. The program is Ontario-focused.
Q: What types of businesses are supported?
Elevate Women+ is for innovative companies that use technology or computers in any sector.
Q: Can early-stage startups apply?
Yes. Both early-stage and growth-stage tech startups with growth potential can apply.
Q: Is support from Elevate Women+ taxable?
Most support is non-cash. Tax rules apply to any capital you raise from investors, not from the program itself.
GrantHub tracks hundreds of grant and support programs across Canada. You can use it to find more opportunities for women and gender-diverse founders in Ontario.
Elevate Women+ can help you get ready to raise capital and scale your tech company in Ontario. The best founders combine programs like this with other grants and targeted funding. GrantHub can help you find and compare all your options, so you can plan your next steps with confidence.
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