What is Up Start?

Up Start is a commercialization training program for anyone at the University of Waterloo who wants to turn their work into a new venture. Whether you are working on research, a capstone project, or your own idea we aim to accelerate your success and help you make an impact on the world.

Turning technology into a product is challenging, which is why Velocity and the Waterloo Commercialization Office (WatCo) are combining their expertise to help. Accepted teams will work closely with Velocity and WatCo advisors to conduct market research and execute on a business plan. They will also receive up to $15,000 in funding.

Up Start guides innovators through the process of turning ideas into ventures that will disrupt the marketplace and create positive societal impact. So, if you’re interested in translating your work beyond the confines of the University of Waterloo, or if you’re building something that can help people, businesses, or society thrive, we want to hear from you.

Note: The Up Start program does not take equity in any ventures created or supported by the program and does not require participants to become a WatCo client.

Overview

The program includes: ‍

Advisory Meetings

You will meet with advisors from Velocity and WatCo on a biweekly cadence for ongoing mentorship and support to advance your business.

Funding

Successful applicants may receive up to $15,000, contingent on achieving subsequent milestones.

Eligibility and Requirements

• Applicants must be a member of the University of Waterloo community, which includes undergraduate students, graduate students, researchers, staff members, or recent graduates up to 1 year post graduation.
• Applicants must obtain an acknowledgement of support from your supervisor (if applicable)
• Applicants must be prepared to commit 10 hours of time to in-person/online working sessions plus independent work necessary to develop ideas and meet business milestones

Note: Up Start does not fund purely academic research or general prototyping projects.

Selection Process

UPDATED FOR FALL 2025

Applicants will need to submit the application form via the link found here by Sunday September 14th at 11:59 pm.

Applicants should also register and complete Velocity’s Fall 2025 Cornerstone program and submit a Lesson’s Learned report at its conclusion. This submission will be judged as part of your application to Up Start. Not completing Cornerstone will severely reduce your chances of an award.

Note: If you have completed Cornerstone previously and you elect not to repeat the program in Fall 2025, your previous Lesson’s Learned submission will be judged for your entry into Up Start.

Velocity and WatCo representatives will assess each Up Start application form and associated Cornerstone Lesson’s Learned documents to select finalists for an in-person pitch which will take place between October 14 and 24, 2025. Top teams will be awarded Up Start funding based on these pitches.

If you have any questions about the program, eligibility, or wish to discuss any details, please contact John Dick.