Landing - Pad Accelerator Program

The Landing Pad Accelerator Program is a business expansion accelerator by Spark Centre that supports international and Canadian startups looking to establish and grow their business presence in Ontario’s Durham Region.

Spark Centre

Overview of the Landing - Pad Accelerator Program program:

The Landing Pad Accelerator Program is operated by Spark Centre, a Regional Innovation Centre (RIC) based in Durham Region, Ontario. This program is tailored to scale-ready companies, both Canadian and international, that are seeking to expand into the Ontario market or launch new Canadian operations. The program offers a customized soft-landing experience for accepted companies, including a combination of advisory support, mentorship, investor preparation, office space, and connection to the Canadian innovation ecosystem. Companies accepted into the Landing Pad Accelerator can gain strategic access to: Market entry guidance Government funding and grant programs Angel and venture capital networks Sales strategy and lead generation resources Legal, HR, and tax support specific to Ontario incorporation One of the unique features of the program is its ability to assist international firms in relocating or establishing a Canadian subsidiary. Participants benefit from Spark Centre’s strategic relationships with municipal and provincial governments, immigration pathways (like Startup Visa Program support), and business development agencies. The program is non-dilutive — Spark Centre does not take equity in participating companies. It runs on a rolling intake and offers programming both virtually and in person, depending on the company’s stage and location.

Benefits of the Landing - Pad Accelerator Program program:

Market entry advisory for Canada/Ontario
Investor readiness training and pitch coaching
Access to funding streams (grants, angel investors, VCs)
Custom mentorship with business advisors and industry experts
Office space and infrastructure in Durham Region
Startup Visa support for international founders
Introductions to local customers, partners, and suppliers
No equity taken

Eligibility criteria of the Landing - Pad Accelerator Program program:

Must be a scale-ready company (Canadian or international)
Typically, businesses are early-stage or growth-stage with an MVP or product in-market
International companies must be looking to enter the Ontario/Canadian market
Canadian companies should aim to expand regionally or internationally from Ontario
Must demonstrate readiness to scale operations, attract customers, and build in Canada
Preference is given to technology and innovation-driven businesses