
You have an idea, but is it viable? Is there a market for it? Can it be the seed of a flourishing tech empire? What’s actually involved in building and growing a tech firm?
Fire up your business with IO Ignition, a 10-week bootcamp created for entrepreneurs who want to validate a tech startup idea and create a solid business foundation to build upon.
IO Ignition is the trailhead of your Venture Path, a comprehensive starting point that helps you map out the road ahead and avoid pitfalls and mistakes that may come your way. You should apply if you:
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“We are humbled and honored to have graduated from cohort 11, and very excited about the next milestones in our journey. It is such a privilege to be a part of the vast network of Invest Ottawa, and to be guided by the program team throughout the 10 weeks. It wouldn’t have been possible without our dear mentor, Laurie Davis. His insights have been key in our journey, and we are looking forward to new heights to reach with his support.”
“I’m a testament to Invest Ottawa’s empowerment of entrepreneurs in the capital region of Canada. From being in IO Ignition Program, to having several partnership opportunities with them since, Invest Ottawa has become a significant part of my personal and business success story.”
Over ten weeks, entrepreneurs, renowned experts and startup mentors will share the foundational elements behind a successful tech company, including:


Get one-on-one mentorship time with Invest Ottawa’s Early Stage Advisors — tried-and-true founders who’ve built successful technology enterprises and have stories to tell.
For many IO Ignition graduates the next step in the Venture Path is IO Flex, where you can meet with other startup founders, talk about shared challenges and how to address them, and connect with other stakeholders and influencers from Ottawa’s tech community.


Reduce your startup expenses with healthy and helpful discounts on business essential software as a service (SaaS) tools that help accelerate growth. These exclusive perks range from legal, finance, accounting, equity management, insurance, sales, marketing, project management, and web design.
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Applications are currently open
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Applications closes
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Cohort Kickoff
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Pitch Finale
Selection Process:After we review your application and ensure your eligibility, you will be connected via email to one of our Early-Stage Advisors who will learn more about your business or idea. From there, 20 companies are selected for each cohort. All applicants will be notified with the decisions shortly after application close.


Shannon Ferguson is happy to help.
Senior Manager, Early Stage Programs | Email Shannon




