Landing - Pad Accelerator Program

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