$75k Fintech Grant

The Fintech Grant is a non-dilutive cash prize designed to accelerate the growth of promising fintech startups. Funded by Digital Commerce Group and Apaylo, this award empowers early-stage fintech founders to scale their operations, amplify their brand visibility, and forge powerful connections with investors and industry leaders. More than just funding, this award offers a platform to share your story, strengthen your network, and unlock meaningful opportunities for business growth.

Eligibility Criteria:

The Fintech Grant is for fintech startups that meet the following criteria:

• Is a private corporation;
• Is seed stage (pre-Series A);
• Has a minimum viable product with market traction;
• Can provide evidence of the ability to hire and grow;
• Has founders with domain expertise and an established, growing team;
• Has revenue or a clear forecast to it;
• Registered federally or provincially in Canada;
• Is a fintech company.

The Process:

Pre-application is required for you to be eligible for this prize. Applications are open until June 12th, with ten startups being shortlisted on June 26th.

NOTE: You must have a Startupfest ticket to attend the event and participate in the first round of pitching.

On July 8th and 9th, the selected startups will join the Digital Commerce Group team in The Startupfest Village to deliver their in-person pitch. For this round taking place on July 8th, finalists will have 5-6 minutes for the pitch and 4-3 minutes for the Q&A. You’ll be able to present with your submitted pitch deck during this time.

After this first day of pitches, a top 5 will be chosen.

On July 9th, the shortlisted startups will meet with the judges for deliberations. The winner will be announced at the closing ceremony on July 10th.