Ingenuity Ascend Accelerator-Up to $5000 in Funding for Your Business Idea
Important Dates
- Application close: December 2,2025
- Interviews to be held during the Week of December 8, 2025
- Program starts: January 26, 2025 (8-10 week duration)
- Application Link: https://forms.gle/ZXUNtZdzFhf5aMRw7
The Ingenuity Ascend Accelerator is a 10-week business development program designed for entrepreneurial-minded Lakehead University students and recent alumni. Whether you're in the idea stage or working on an early-stage startup, Ascend helps you transition from concept to viable business.
Each cohort accepts up to four business ideas, and selected ventures are eligible to receive up to $5,000 in funding to support business development activities.
The program is designed to:
- Support the launch and growth of student-led ventures
- Offer hands-on business training and mentorship
- Provide a collaborative, resource-rich environment
What We Offer:
- Weekly mentorship and milestone meetings
- Business workshops covering marketing, IP, revenue models, business structure, and more
- Access to Ingenuity's Makerspace, Media Room, and co-working space
- Connections to community partners and local entrepreneurs
What to Expect as a Participant
Throughout the 10-week program, early-stage companies can expect to:
- Participate in networking events
- Attend business development workshops
- Connect with experienced entrepreneurial mentors
- Join milestone meetings with Ingenuity staff to track progress
- Access up to $5,000 in non-repayable funding (restrictions apply)
Eligibility Requirements:
- At least one founder must be a current Lakehead student or alumni (within one year post-graduation)
- Must be willing to commit to the program for 10 weeks
- Must participate in all workshops, events, and pitch competitions
- Must have decision-making authority for the venture
- Must meet the legal requirements to start and run a business in Canada
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does it cost anything to join the program?
A: No. The Ascend Accelerator is completely free for eligible Lakehead students and recent graduates.
Q: Do I need to have a business already running to apply?
A: No. We welcome applications from all stages, including early idea development.
Q: What is the time commitment like?
A: The program includes one milestone meeting per week (up to 1 hour), plus several scheduled workshops. Ingenuity works with participants to find mutually agreeable times that respect academic and work obligations.
Q: Is this program only for business students?
A: Not at all! Ingenuity supports students from all academic backgrounds.
Q: Does Ingenuity take equity in my company?
A: No. Ingenuity does not take equity or royalties from any participant.
Q: Who can I contact for more information?
A: Please reach out to info.ingenuity@lakeheadu.ca for all general inquiries.
Apply today and take the next step in turning your idea into a business!