ELLA Incubator
The YSpace ELLA Incubator is a bespoke and flexible membership program supporting Ontario-based women-led ventures to scale and grow. This program was created with generous funding through the York Region Innovation Fund.
With a network of industry experts, entrepreneurs, and advisors, the membership is designed to help founders to navigate the growth journey beyond the launch.
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What to expect
Develop and strengthen your knowledge through virtual webinars and educational workshops. Engage with program advisors and industry experts to build strategic direction and drive tactical execution of your company goals. Join a network of like-minded women founders and discuss business challenges in peer-to-peer sessions.
![Conversation bubbles icon](https://www.yorku.ca/yspace/wp-content/uploads/sites/231/2023/03/talk_icon.png)
Community
Join driven, collaborative and growth-oriented women entrepreneurs for monthly support and peer advice
![Speedometer icon](https://www.yorku.ca/yspace/wp-content/uploads/sites/231/2023/03/lead.png)
Leadership development
Refine resilience and skills in peer circles and advisor check-ins
![A small and large triangle icon](https://www.yorku.ca/yspace/wp-content/uploads/sites/231/2023/03/triangles.png)
Growth frameworks
Develop and test growth tactics with expertise from experts and bespoke material as needed
![Checkmark in circle icon](https://www.yorku.ca/yspace/wp-content/uploads/sites/231/2023/03/checkmark.png)
Milestone driven
Establish accountability for tangible milestones to ensure growth
Timeline
Applications open year round
Selected ventures are incubated for six months with an option to renew for up to a maximum of two years
Application process
Step: One
Companies apply online via the application form linked below.
If you have any questions about the application process, email us at ellawomen@yorku.ca
Step: Two
Selected applicants will be contacted by the YSpace ELLA team to schedule an interview to meet with the leadership team to review the business pitch, goals, current needs, and potential fit with YSpace.
Pitch sessions take place on a monthly rolling basis. You’ll be notified within two weeks after the pitch of your application status.
Step: Three
Once accepted, companies will be offered a six-month free membership, with access to resources and support for growth. This opportunity is created by the Regional Municipality of York's Innovation Fund.
* Please note there is a monthly fee beyond the first six months.
Program eligibility
- An Ontario-based women-led business with at least 50% ownership of a registered business, where you are working full-time on the business
- Differentiated products that meet a clear need in the market with growth potential. Preference will be given to tech startups
- Preference will be given to companies that are based in York Region or that are looking to expand to York Region
- Leader(s) has/have a clear view of the business goals for the next 6 months
- Driven, coachable and collaborative founders with a growth mindset
Frequently asked
![Three female entrepreneurs in multi-coloured squares.](https://www.yorku.ca/yspace/wp-content/uploads/sites/231/2023/05/ella1.png)
Apply
Please use the link below to access our application form.
OUR PARTNERS AND FUNDERS
The ELLA Incubator program is made possible through funding from the York Region Innovation Fund.
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YSpace is committed to working with emerging technology, agrifood, products and services. Get in touch today to find out how you can become a part of our community.
Contact us
For more information, please contact us at
yspace@yorku.ca
416-736-2100 ext. 44940