How Saskatchewan tech startups can access free legal and accounting support

By GrantHub Research Team · · Lire en français

Early legal and accounting costs can slow down even the strongest tech startups. Incorporation, shareholder agreements, tax filings, and revenue reporting all add up fast. For Saskatchewan founders, there is a way to get free legal and accounting support without giving up equity or taking on debt — through the Co.Labs — In-Revenue program.


Co.Labs — In-Revenue: Free professional services for revenue-stage startups

Co.Labs — In-Revenue is a Saskatchewan-based incubator program that provides in-kind professional services to tech companies that are already generating revenue. Instead of cash funding, the program connects founders with vetted partners who deliver legal, accounting, and advisory support at no cost to the startup.

Accepted startups receive access to:

  • Free legal services from industry partners

    • Corporate structuring and governance
    • Contract and customer agreement review
    • IP and shareholder considerations
  • Free accounting and financial support

    • Revenue tracking and financial reporting guidance
    • Tax and compliance advice
    • Get ready for investor or lender meetings
  • 30 hours of expert consultation with senior advisors across legal, finance, and growth strategy

These services are delivered as in-kind support, meaning you do not receive cash but save thousands in professional fees.

Who is eligible for Co.Labs — In-Revenue?

To qualify, your startup must meet all of the following criteria:

  • Generating revenue at the time of application
  • Based in Saskatchewan and actively participating in the local tech ecosystem
  • Founders committed full-time to the business
  • Building a software or hardware product, not a consulting-only service

This program is designed for startups that have moved past MVP and are working toward growing your business and reaching more customers.

Is this a grant or funding program?

Co.Labs — In-Revenue is not a cash grant. It provides non-dilutive, non-repayable services instead of money. This makes it especially useful if you want to reduce operating costs without affecting ownership or future fundraising.

How valuable is the support?

While there is no fixed dollar amount, Co.Labs notes that the combined value of legal services, accounting support, expert hours, and workspace access can be worth tens of thousands of dollars over the program period. For many Saskatchewan startups, this replaces expenses they would otherwise pay out of pocket.

Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you confirm whether in-kind programs like Co.Labs fit alongside other provincial or federal funding options in seconds.


How to apply and what to prepare

While Co.Labs does not publish rigid intake deadlines, applications typically assess:

  • Proof of active revenue
  • Clear explanation of your product and target market
  • Founder availability and commitment
  • How legal and accounting support will help you scale

You should be ready to explain current challenges such as customer contracts, revenue recognition, or upcoming tax and compliance milestones.


Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Assuming you need to be pre-revenue
    Co.Labs — In-Revenue is specifically for startups already earning revenue. Pre-revenue companies should look at other accelerator or MVP-stage programs.

  2. Treating it like a cash grant
    This program does not provide money. Your value comes from using the legal and accounting services actively.

  3. Underusing professional hours
    Many founders do not plan ahead and leave advisory hours unused. Map out legal and accounting priorities early.

  4. Not stacking with other programs
    In-kind support can often be combined with tax credits or cash grants if rules allow. Always confirm eligibility.


Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do Saskatchewan tech startups have to give up equity to join Co.Labs — In-Revenue?
No. The program provides free in-kind services and does not require equity or repayment.

Q: Can I combine Co.Labs support with other Saskatchewan grants?
Yes. In most cases, in-kind support can be stacked with cash-based grants or tax credits, as long as expenses are not double-counted.

Q: What industries does Co.Labs support?
The program focuses on startups building hardware or software products, including SaaS and technology-enabled platforms.

Q: Does my startup need to be incorporated in Saskatchewan?
You must be based in Saskatchewan and actively involved in the provincial tech community to be eligible.

Q: Is office space included in the program?
Yes. Startups receive access to hot desks, dedicated offices, and meeting or boardroom space as part of the in-kind support.


Next Steps

If legal and accounting costs are slowing your growth, Co.Labs — In-Revenue is one of the most practical ways Saskatchewan tech startups can access free professional support. Programs like this work best when paired with other funding tools.

GrantHub tracks thousands of active grant and support programs across Canada — including in-kind incubators and accelerators — so you can see which options match your business profile.

See also:

  • How to stack grants and loans without violating funding rules
  • What business expenses are eligible across Canadian grants and loans?
  • Innovation vouchers vs traditional grants for Alberta startups

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