Most tech companies hit a wall between early traction and true scale. You might have product–market fit, a growing customer base, and some funding—but getting past $10M or $20M in revenue takes a new approach. Ontario’s Scale-Up Platform, delivered by Invest Ottawa, supports high-growth tech firms in their efforts to build the leadership, systems, and market access needed to aim for $100M+ in revenue.
The Scale-Up Platform is a non-dilutive growth program for high-growth technology companies in Ontario. Unlike traditional grants, it does not provide cash. Instead, it offers hands-on support that targets the real challenges of scaling: leadership capacity, go-to-market execution, and operational maturity.
According to Invest Ottawa, the program provides:
Most companies that aspire to reach $100M do not fail because of a lack of ideas, but because of problems with execution.
The Scale-Up Platform is not an early-stage accelerator. It is designed for companies that have already shown commercial traction and are ready for significant growth.
Program FAQs and Invest Ottawa guidance show typical eligibility includes:
While the program mainly focuses on the Ottawa region, eligibility can change depending on the intake and cohort.
Reaching $100M in revenue takes more than just selling more products. The Scale-Up Platform focuses on four main growth areas that set successful scale-ups apart.
Founders are matched with experienced entrepreneurs and executives who have already scaled companies. This mentorship focuses on:
This kind of guidance is often hard—and expensive—to find on your own.
Companies get help to improve:
These supports address the revenue challenges that show up after early growth.
As revenue grows, internal systems can start to break down. The Scale-Up Platform helps companies strengthen:
Participants join curated peer groups and get introductions to:
This network benefit grows over time and supports ongoing growth.
The Scale-Up Platform is not a funding or grant program. There is no direct cash contribution.
However, many companies combine the platform with government funding like:
Using tools such as GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you quickly find programs by province and industry, making it easier to combine advisory support with funding.
Thinking the program replaces funding
The Scale-Up Platform works alongside grants and investment—it does not replace them.
Applying too early
Companies without enough revenue or capital often find it hard to benefit from scale-stage advice.
Not committing enough leadership time
Active founder and executive participation is needed. Passive involvement limits results.
Overlooking internal readiness
Scaling advice only works if your team can act on it. Weak internal processes reduce impact.
Q: How much funding do you receive from the Scale-Up Platform?
You do not receive direct funding. The value comes from mentorship, advisory services, and network access.
Q: Is the Scale-Up Platform only for software companies?
No. The program supports a wide range of technology companies, including hardware and deep tech, as long as they show high-growth potential.
Q: Do companies need to be based in Ottawa?
The program mainly focuses on the Ottawa region, though eligibility may change by cohort and partner involvement.
Q: Can the Scale-Up Platform be combined with grants like SR&ED?
Yes. Many companies use the platform along with SR&ED credits and other government programs to fund R&D and commercialization.
Q: What stage should my company be at to apply?
Most successful applicants have at least $2M in revenue or capital raised and are getting ready for major market expansion.
If your tech company is preparing for strong growth, Ontario’s Scale-Up Platform can help you build the systems and leadership needed to pursue $100M in revenue. GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant and support programs across Canada, making it easier to find funding that works with scale-up advisory programs like this one.
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