Deadline: January 4, 2026
Applications are open for the Nobellum Growth Stream Innovator Program 2026. The Nobellum Innovator Program is a flagship initiative supporting the development and scaling of Black-led ventures in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
As of 2025, Nobellum has successfully supported over 100 Black-owned businesses in STEM, fulfilling its founding mandate. Building on this milestone, the 2026 Growth Stream continues to accelerate ventures through its six-month accelerator designed for high growth potential, revenue-generating startups that are actively preparing to raise external capital.
Benefits
- Executive in Residence Coaching Support (EiR): One-on-one mentorship from experienced executives, investors, and domain experts to help refine strategy and navigate growth.
- Co-working Space (LAUFT): Access to professional co-working spaces across the GTA, fostering collaboration, productivity, and community.
- Partnered STEM Facility: Access to a 178,000 sq. ft. facility and ~100 scientists supporting advanced manufacturing, biotech, textile computing, advanced materials, and more.
- Scale Up Program: Hands-on support from top universities and colleges in strategic planning, financial modeling, market research, and scaling operations.
- Technical Development Tracks (Node): Access to partners and toolkits that strengthen product development, financial planning, and go-to-market execution.
- Powerful PR and Media Training with CityTv News: Tools and media opportunities to elevate founder brands, with features across Nobellum platforms and media partners.
- Demo Day & National Recognition: A professionally produced Demo Day attended by ecosystem leaders, investors, and corporate partners for high-level visibility.
- Pathway to the Black Innovation Zone (BIZ): As a founding member, Nobellum connects founders to a national coalition of 20+ Black-led investors and accelerators representing 80% of the Black innovation community.
- Expert Procurement Canada – RFP Training: Tailored training on finding, bidding, and complying with government contracts and procurement processes.
- Pathway Partnership: Intellectual Property (IPON): Gain support from IP partners to protect and commercialize founders’ innovations.
Eligibility
To be admitted into the Growth Stream, ventures must:
- Black-led, with at least one Black founder
- Operate in a STEM-related industry
- Have a company that is incorporated either federally or provincially in Canada
In addition, ventures must meet one or more of the following financial thresholds:
- Generate over $100,000 CAD in annual sales revenue, or
- Own intellectual property (IP) plus company valuation is over $3 million CAD
Application
The final day to submit applications for the Growth Stream program is January 4, 2026. Ensure all submissions are completed by this date.
For more information, visit Nobellum Innovator Program.
