Deadline: January 28, 2026
The York Entrepreneurship Development Institute (YEDI) Incubator 2026 is now open for applications! This highly competitive and fully funded incubator programme offers a transformative opportunity for Canadian entrepreneurs looking to refine their business ideas, develop essential entrepreneurial skills, and access potential venture capital funding.
About the Opportunity
The York Entrepreneurship Development Institute (YEDI) Incubator 2026 is a 16-week, intensive certificate programme designed to support entrepreneurs in Canada with innovative business ideas. The incubator provides participants with a structured and practical learning environment that combines academic knowledge with real-world application.
Through a blend of formal lectures, interactive workshops, expert mentorship, and milestone-based deliverables, participants gain a comprehensive understanding of entrepreneurship, marketing, finance, and communications. The programme culminates in a Venture Fair, where participants pitch their businesses to potential investors and industry leaders.
Upon successful completion, graduates receive a certification and become eligible to apply for seed or venture-capital funding through YEDI’s dedicated venture fund—helping them turn their business concepts into successful enterprises.
Eligibility
To qualify for the YEDI Incubator 2026 programme, applicants must:
- Be founders or co-founders of a start-up or business with a unique and innovative idea.
- Have ventures that are at the seed, early, or growth stage.
- Be Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
- Demonstrate commitment to actively participate in the full 16-week programme.
Please note that the programme accepts only 15 entrepreneurs per cohort, making it highly selective and competitive.
Benefits
Selected participants will gain:
- Free participation in a comprehensive 16-week incubator certificate programme.
- Access to formal lectures and practical workshops covering essential business areas.
- Personalised mentorship and guidance from seasoned industry experts.
- Peer support through entrepreneurial cluster groups and networking sessions.
- Opportunity to pitch business ideas during the YEDI Venture Fair to potential investors.
- A certification upon programme completion.
- Eligibility to apply for seed or venture-capital funding via YEDI’s venture fund.
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 28 January 2026
How to Apply
Interested entrepreneurs who meet the eligibility requirements are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline. The selection process is highly competitive, focusing on innovation, feasibility, and potential for growth.
Additional Information
This incubator programme is ideal for individuals who are serious about growing their ventures within a structured, resource-rich, and mentorship-driven environment. Participants should be ready to commit to the programme’s full duration and engage actively in all activities to maximise the value of their experience.
👉 Read more about the programme
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