BUILD | DRIVE | TRANSFORM
XR Accelerator
Program
About the Program
The XR Accelerator Program equips XR innovators with essential resources:
Funding
Access up to $25,000 in funding* (matching funds required)
Mentorship
Receive expert-led technical training and business mentorship
Equipment Access
Utilize discounted XR labs and high-end equipment
Networking
Connect with investors, industry leaders, and potential customers
Structured Pathway
Advance from Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 5 to TRL 9
See the Program Guide for more details.
Benefits of Joining
- Get financial support with grants* to develop and scale XR products
- Gain hands-on technical training in AR, VR, and MR technologies
- Receive mentorship from industry experts, investors, and experienced entrepreneurs
- Advance from prototype to a market-ready product with commercialization guidance
- Access dedicated support for women, BIPOC, Indigenous entrepreneurs, and persons with disabilities
Talent Acceleration Commitment
All selected participants must engage with student talent through one of the following:
Research Collaboration
Collaborate on research by hiring students for a faculty-supported project
Internship
Offer technical or business internships to students
Grant Utilization
Allocate part of the $25,000 grant* (if awarded) to student engagement
This initiative ensures participants gain high-quality talent support, accelerating business growth while contributing to workforce development.
Eligibility
- Register as a for-profit business in Ontario
- Operate within Southern Ontario (preferred)
- Develop a working prototype (TRL 5) tested in a controlled environment
- Demonstrate readiness to advance to TRL 6 with real-world validation
- Commit to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)
See the Program Guide for more details.
Program Structure
The XR Accelerator Program follows a structured three-phase approach:
Phase 1
Product Development and TRL Transition
Duration: June 2 – June 30, 2025
Goal: Advance from TRL 5 (Proof of Concept) to TRL 6 (Minimum Viable Product)
Activities: Hands-on mentorship, XR development training, product validation
Phase 2
Market Validation and Commercialization
Duration: July 15 – October 22, 2025
Goal: Strengthen business models, customer engagement, and investment readiness
Outcome: The top 10 startups receive $25,000 in funding*
phase 3
Alumni Support and Growth
Duration: November 28, 2025 – May 27, 2026
Goal: Sustain business success through continued mentorship, networking, and access to XR labs at discounted rates
Application Process
Key Dates
- Virtual Info Sessions: March 19, March 31, April 15, 2025, Register here
- Selection Notification: May 12 – May 15, 2025
- Program Launch: June 2, 2025
Let’s build the future—together.
Apply Now
Ready to make an impact?
Apply today and be part of a movement shaping the future of XR innovation.
For questions or more information, contact us at [email protected].
Selection Criteria
Applications are evaluated based on:
Innovation and Originality – 20%
Developing an innovative XR solution
Market Potential – 35%
Identifying an apparent demand and viable business case
Team Capability – 25%
Assembling a strong, capable team
Impact Potential – 30%
Creating a positive social and economic impact
For startups advancing from Phase 1 to Phase 2, additional criteria:
Prototype Readiness – 25%
Building a functional and scalable product
Market Validation – 25%
Proving customer demand through engagement
Commercialization Plan – 25%
Developing a clear go-to-market strategy
Impact Potential – 25%
Generating sustainable jobs and investment opportunities
Funding & Financial Support
Participants may receive up to $25,000 in funding* with a 1:1 matching contribution required.
Demo Day Incentives:
The top two businesses may receive $75,000 to scale their commercialization efforts (subject to funding availability).
Funding can be used for:
- Developing and testing XR products
- Validating market demand through research
- Acquiring customers and forming industry partnerships
Funding cannot be used for:
- Covering general operating expenses unrelated to XR development
Program Fee
All applicants must pay a $199 application fee to confirm acceptance into the program post selection.
Phase 2 participants may pay a one-time program fee covering:
- XR Lab and Experience Zone access (previously valued at $5,000+ per month)
- Premium mentorship and technical support
- Expanded networking and business development opportunities
See the Program Guide for more details.
Alumni Support
Program graduates continue to receive:
- Ongoing mentorship through monthly check-ins
- Access to XR labs and specialized development tools
- Research collaboration opportunities with Algoma University
- Industry networking with investors and key stakeholders
- Opportunities to mentor future program participants
Become an Evaluator
Industry experts, investors, and business leaders are key in selecting the next generation of XR startups.
Become an Evaluator
Why Join the Evaluator Panel?
- Influence the future of XR innovation
- Network with investors and technology leaders
- Support underrepresented founders in the XR space
Who We Need
We welcome professionals with expertise in:
- XR technologies and product development
- Startup growth, business strategy, and commercialization
- Investment, funding, and market research
- Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) advocacy
Your Role as an Evaluator
- Review applications using a structured rubric
- Provide feedback to support startup growth
- Engage in discussions via Google Chat or Slack
- Commit to reviewing applications between March 17 – May 14, 2025
Let’s build the future—together.
Apply Now
Ready to make an impact?
Apply today and be part of a movement shaping the future of XR innovation.
For questions or more information, contact us at [email protected].