Deadline: February 27, 2026
The Foodpreneur Lab Step Up, Scale Up Program – Cohort 3 (2026) is now open for applications. This initiative is designed to empower food entrepreneurs in Canada who are ready to elevate their businesses, expand into new markets, and scale up successfully.
If you are a food business owner with a product already in the market and a drive to grow strategically, this 16-week growth-focused programme could be your next big step.
About the Foodpreneur Lab Step Up, Scale Up Program – Cohort 3 (2026)
The Foodpreneur Lab Step Up, Scale Up Program – Cohort 3 is a 16-week programme tailored for established food entrepreneurs. Its main objective is to help participants identify the key barriers limiting their business growth and create a customised roadmap to overcome them.
Participants will gain access to a broad network of expert advisors, valuable resources, and personalised support focused on scaling their business operations. The programme offers strategic assistance in several areas, including:
- Entering new sales channels
- Securing production space
- Accessing funding and investment opportunities
- Enhancing operational efficiency
This programme provides a holistic approach to business development, enabling entrepreneurs to step up confidently and scale up sustainably.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Foodpreneur Lab Step Up, Scale Up Program – Cohort 3 (2026), applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident.
- Reside in and have their company registered in one of the Southwestern Ontario regions recognised by the programme.
- Have an existing food product already in the market.
- Possess liability insurance for the business.
Eligible Regions
Applicants from the following areas within Southwestern Ontario are eligible to apply:
- Brant
- Durham
- Hamilton
- Ottawa
- Toronto
- Waterloo
- York
- And other eligible regions in Southwestern Ontario
Programme Duration
The Foodpreneur Lab Step Up, Scale Up Program – Cohort 3 runs for 16 weeks. During this period, selected participants will engage in hands-on business development sessions, receive one-on-one mentorship, and build a tailored action plan aimed at accelerating growth and scalability.
Requirements for Selected Participants
Successful applicants will be required to submit the following documents before commencing the programme:
- A signed Participant Agreement
- Proof of Business Incorporation
- Liability Insurance certificate
- A valid Food Handler’s Certificate
These documents confirm compliance and readiness to participate in the programme.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the Foodpreneur Lab Step Up, Scale Up Program – Cohort 3 (2026) is 27 February 2026.
Applicants are encouraged to apply early and prepare all required documentation in advance to ensure a smooth submission process.
Why You Should Apply
Participating in the Foodpreneur Lab Step Up, Scale Up Program – Cohort 3 offers invaluable benefits for entrepreneurs looking to expand their footprint in Canada’s growing food industry. Through expert mentorship, access to funding insights, and exposure to new markets, the programme helps bridge the gap between ambition and sustainable growth.
If you’re ready to take your food business to the next level, this is the perfect opportunity to gain structured guidance and long-term support.
How to Apply
To be considered for the Foodpreneur Lab Step Up, Scale Up Program – Cohort 3 (2026), submit your application before the deadline.
👉 Read More About the Programme
Need Assistance?
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review to strengthen your application and improve your chances of selection.
