Programme d'accélération d'Investir Ottawa ### 📋 Eligible Entities - Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) based in the Ottawa region - Startups and early-stage companies with innovative business models - Technology and knowledge-based businesses prioritized - Companies demonstrating growth potential and scalability - Businesses operating in priority sectors (tech, life sciences, advanced manufacturing, digital services) - Must have a physical presence or operational base in Ottawa ### 💰 Funding Details - Non-repayable grant/acceleration program (mentorship and advisory support model) - Direct funding amount: Not explicitly stated in program description (appears to be primarily in-kind support rather than direct capital) - Value proposition: Access to expert mentorship, government funding guidance, and market intelligence - No matching contribution required (program provides advisory services) - Investment facilitation: Connection to investment opportunities and potential investors - Cost to participant: Program fees (if applicable) not specified in available description ### 🛠️ Approved Expenses - Business mentorship and coaching from experienced entrepreneurs and subject matter experts - Government funding program navigation and application support for accessing key federal/provincial initiatives - Market research and intelligence for target markets - Customer identification and lead generation within target market segments - Business strategy and growth planning advisory services - Investment readiness support to attract private capital - Network access to investors, partners, and business development opportunities ### ⚠️ Conditions & Milestones - Geographic requirement: Business must be based in or relocate to Ottawa region - Program participation: Companies must actively engage with mentors and advisors - Reporting obligations: Regular progress updates and milestone tracking likely required - Growth commitment: Demonstrated commitment to scaling business operations - Timeline: Structured acceleration cohort with defined program duration (typically 3-6 months for acceleration programs) - Eligibility maintenance: Continued focus on innovation and market expansion - Accountability: Meeting agreed-upon business objectives and milestones throughout program - Intellectual property: Standard terms regarding ownership of business plans and strategies developed