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Canadian Technology Accelerator
Canadian Technology Accelerator is a program that supports technology companies expanding into international markets. It focuses on sectors including agtech,...
Canadian Technology Accelerator
Canadian Technology Accelerator is a program that supports technology companies expanding into international markets. It focuses on sectors including agtech, climatetech, cybersecurity, digital health, and multisector innovation. Based in New York, the program assists companies entering and growing in foreign markets.
General information
Firm type
Accelerator
Location
Region
North America
Country
Canada
City
Ottawa
Corporate office
Ottawa, ON, Canada
Sector focus
Frequently asked questions
What is the Canadian Technology Accelerator?
The Canadian Technology Accelerator (CTA) is a free, equity-free program run by the Canadian Trade Commissioner Service (Global Affairs Canada). It helps Canadian technology startups expand into international markets through cohort-based market access, mentorship, and investor introductions.
Does the CTA take equity or charge fees?
No. The CTA charges no fees and takes no equity. It is funded by the Canadian government. This makes it distinct from for-profit accelerators like Y Combinator or Techstars.
Which markets does the CTA target?
The CTA operates cohorts in major innovation hubs including Silicon Valley, New York, Boston, London, Berlin, and Tokyo. Each cohort focuses on a specific sector and geography, typically running 8–12 weeks.
What is the CTA's track record?
The program has supported hundreds of Canadian companies since its launch. Alumni include D-Wave Systems, Lightspeed, and MindBridge AI. According to the Government of Canada, CTA alumni collectively raised hundreds of millions of dollars in venture capital and increased export revenues.
How does the CTA select participants?
Companies apply through the Trade Commissioner Service; selection is based on market readiness, technology strength, and sector alignment. The program prioritizes startups with a clear export or expansion plan.
Is the CTA related to any other government programs?
Yes. The CTA is part of the Canadian Trade Commissioner Service, which also administers programs like the CanExport funding initiative for trade missions and market research.
What happens after a cohort ends?
Graduates become part of the CTA alumni network and continue to access Trade Commissioner support. Some startups qualify for follow-on government funding or private investment through partner venture capital firms.
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