Applications Open for IDEA Mississauga’s Step-Up Program

Six-month accelerator aims to help diverse, high-potential businesses grow and innovate

MISSISSAUGA — The City of Mississauga is inviting local entrepreneurs to take their business to the next level through IDEA Mississauga’s Step-Up Program, a six-month accelerator designed to help innovative and inclusive companies scale their operations and expand their impact.

Applications are now open for the 2025 cohort, offering selected participants access to mentorship, business resources, and exclusive networking opportunities valued at over $200,000. The program will begin in January 2026, with applications closing November 30, 2025.

Empowering Mississauga Entrepreneurs

Launched to strengthen the city’s innovation ecosystem, the Step-Up Program supports diverse and underrepresented founders who are driving change in key sectors such as life sciences, advanced manufacturing, and technology.

“The Step-Up Program is one of the many ways IDEA Mississauga and Invest Mississauga are helping to transform entrepreneurs’ ideas into reality,” said Christina Kakaflikas, Director of Invest Mississauga. “We’ve seen incredible success from past alumni with innovations spanning life sciences, wellness, education, finance, and technology.”

What the Program Offers

The Step-Up Program gives entrepreneurs access to hands-on training, professional guidance, and industry connections that can accelerate their business growth. Participants will benefit from:

• C-Suite training with experts in accounting, law, and intellectual property

• One-on-one mentorship from Entrepreneurs-in-Residence and business advisors

• Networking opportunities with investors and corporate partners

• Exclusive pitch opportunities at showcase events attended by investors and City leaders

• Resources valued at over $200,000, including grants, memberships, and prizes

Eligibility Criteria

The program is open to businesses that:

• Operate in or plan to relocate to Mississauga

• Generate annual revenues between $100,000 and $2 million

• Hold patented innovations or pre-seed capital

• Specialize in life sciences, advanced manufacturing, or technology

Learn More

Two information sessions are planned for interested applicants:

• Thursday, October 9: Virtual Information Session

• Thursday, November 13: In-person Information Session

Entrepreneurs can find full program details and apply through the Step-Up Program webpage before the November 30 deadline.

About IDEA Mississauga

IDEA Mississauga is the City’s innovation hub and business accelerator, supporting startups and scale-ups that contribute to the city’s economic growth and inclusive innovation agenda. Through programs like Step-Up, the City continues to position itself as a leading destination for entrepreneurship in Canada.

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