Put your best foot forward: Apply to IDEA Mississauga’s Step-Up Program

Are you a high-potential company ready to take your business to the next level? Apply now for IDEA Mississauga‘s Step-Up Program, a six-month growth program with a proven track record of helping companies that are ready to scale attract investment, accelerate growth and prepare for their next stage of success.

Operated by IDEA Mississauga, the City of Mississauga’s business innovation hub, Step-Up supports companies that have gained traction in the market and are ready to scale. These businesses receive executive training, mentorship, investor access and expert guidance. Founders gain the tools, strategies and connections they need to grow faster and be competitive at the next level.

Why the Step-Up Program?

Growing a business comes with new challenges, from raising capital and expanding into new markets to building teams and strengthening operations. Step-Up helps companies navigate these challenges and build a stronger foundation for growth.

Participants join a cohort of ambitious founders and work directly with experienced executives, industry experts and investors. The program combines hands-on support, peer learning and tailored business advice to help companies build momentum and prepare for long-term success.

Step-Up may be right for you!

Step-Up is designed for companies in the life sciences, advanced manufacturing and technology sectors, including areas such as artificial intelligence, clean technology and defence technology.

To be eligible, companies must:

• Generate between $100,000 and $2 million in annual revenue.
• Have intellectual property (IP) or have raised investment funding.
• Be positioned for growth and investment.
• Be located in Mississauga or the Greater Toronto Area or be willing to relocate to Mississauga.

Whether you’re getting ready to raise capital, venture into new markets, spike your sales or grow your team, Step-Up can help make your path to greater success come even quicker.

Why you should apply

Step-Up gives founders the support, expertise and connections needed to scale with confidence. You will get:

• Executive-level training focused on real business challenges.
• One-on-one mentorship from experienced business leaders.
• Direct access to investors and fundraising support.
• Professional expertise in legal, accounting and intellectual property matters.
• Opportunities to learn from and connect with fellow founders.
• Industry-specific expertise across life sciences, advanced manufacturing and technology.
• Up to $20,000 in funding opportunities.
• More than $200,000 in business resources and perks.

By the end of the program, founders like you will have stronger growth strategies, valuable investor connections and a clear roadmap for scaling your business.

Key dates

• Information Session 1: October 13, 2026
• Information Session 2: November 16, 2026
• Applications close: November 30, 2026

Learn more and apply

Ready to scale your business? Visit ideamississauga.ca to learn more about the Step-Up Program, review eligibility requirements, register for an information session and submit your application before November 30, 2026.

About the IDEA Step-Up Program

The IDEA Step-Up Program is a six-month initiative. It helps innovative and inclusive companies grow and overcome barriers.

The program focuses on sustainability and inclusivity. It supports companies working to create both economic and social impact.

About IDEA Mississauga

IDEA Mississauga, powered by Invest Mississauga, the City’s Economic Development Division, brings together industry, government, education and organizational leaders. It helps start-ups and scale-ups bring those ideas to market. IDEA Mississauga gives entrepreneurs access to mentorship, services and a strong network of partners and talent. From start-up to scale-up, IDEA supports businesses in turning ideas into real-world impact.

Tags

• Economic Development