Accelerator Program

Program Focus

We are looking to support startups and seed stage businesses who will bring new products, processes, or applications into our forest sector – whether they use our region’s wood, our large supply of underutilized hardwoods, use residual wood products from our established industry, or improve the businesses of those who do.

$40k

In Investment

12 wks

Program Duration

Feb 1

Cohort Start Date

Our program is tailored to accelerate your business development in NWO through navigating our region’s assets & advantages.

Your Springboard Experience

Targeted funding, specialized infrastructure, and mentorship branching together to accelerate your bioeconomy venture.
Industry Experts & Mentors
Entrepreneur Journey Sessions
Practical Workshops on Key Business Topics
$40K in Funding
Dedicated Office Space
Peer-to-Peer Community
Structured Goal-Setting & Accountability
Access to Labs and Specialized Facilities
Personal NOIC Advisor
Potential First Buyers
Abundant Forest Resources
Access to Angel Investors & Government Funders
Industry Connections that Open Doors

Eligible Applications

Eligible applicants will propose one or more of the following:

  • Manufacture of forest-based products
  • Forestry-based technology
  • Other innovations in the forest sector

Successful applicants will participate full time in the 12-week accelerator program in Thunder Bay, and will plan to locate their businesses in Thunder Bay or Northwestern Ontario.

Opportunity Products

Northwestern Ontario sits at the heart of Canada’s forest bioeconomy — rich in feedstock, infrastructure, and deep supply chain support.

View the full opportunity diagram to see how our region’s assets connect to your business.

Ineligible Applications

The following business types are not eligible for this program:

✕ Resellers, wholesalers & distributors
✕ Consulting companies (unless offering an eligible product, technology, or innovation)

Interested? Let Us Know.

Two ways to get involved — start with an Expression of Interest, or go straight to the full application.

Expression of Interest

Help us get to know you & your proposal

Not quite ready for a full application? Submit a brief Expression of Interest to connect with our advisory team and explore how the Springboard can support your venture.
  • Share your novel forest bioeconomy product or process.
  • Explore regional feedstock, facilities, and funding fit
  • Receive early guidance from NOIC advisors with no commitment
Submit EOI Form

Takes only 10-15 minutes to complete.

Apply Now

Submit your full program application

Ready to take the next step? The formal application for Cohort 2 is open from September 1 – December 14, 2026.

  • Describe your product, process, or innovation
  • Outline your business development goals
Start Application

Application closes December 14, 2026

Past Cohort

Lumiverd

Prime Destination

Why Thunder Bay?

Thunder Bay offers start-ups and scaling companies an unmatched combination of low operational burn rates, pristine natural beauty, and global multimodal transportation.

Lower Burn Rate

Affordable commercial space and operational cost efficiencies.

Exceptional Quality of Life

Direct access to world-class outdoors and vibrant community.

Global Transport Hub

Major port, CP/CN rail lines, highway, and international airport.

Targeted Funding

Access specialized provincial and federal Northern funding pipelines.

Explore Opportunities in Thunder Bay

Connect directly with the Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission (CEDC) resources:

Why Thunder Bay Overview
Life & Living in Thunder Bay
Global Transportation Hub Details