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Zen Launchpad

Canadian startup incubator and venture builder supporting innovation with R&D, accelerator programs and AI initiatives.

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Description

Zen Launchpad is a startup incubator and venture builder based in North Vancouver, British Columbia. Founded in 2013, it specializes in helping early-stage entrepreneurs take their businesses from the "idea" phase to a functional Minimum Viable Product (MVP) and beyond, with a particular focus on the intersection of hardware and software. 
  • Ideation & Prototype: Zen Launchpad primarily works with Angel, Pre-seed, and Seed stage ventures.
  • Startup Visa Gateway: It acts as a specialized entry point for international founders looking to relocate to Canada, providing the necessary incubation to qualify for the Canadian Startup Visa program. 
  • Method: Founders can apply through the Zen Launchpad website or via the F6S platform.
  • Inquiry: Direct inquiries can be made through [email protected].
  • Materials: Applicants typically provide details on their business model, current prototype, and, for international founders, their intent for Canadian immigration.

Eligibility

  • Sector Agnostic: They work with a wide range of industries including Hardware, SaaS, AI, EdTech, Fintech, Robotics, and HealthTech.
  • Founder Profile: Open to both solo founders and teams.
  • Geography: Primarily targets entrepreneurs from India, Mexico, South Africa, and South Korea for immigration programs, but is open to Canadian-based founders as well. 

Process

  1. Selection: Evaluation of the founder's passion, the technical feasibility of the idea, and its social or environmental impact.
  2. Accelerator (PTAP): A 12-week Product & Technology Accelerator Program (PTAP), often run in partnership with Spring Activator, offering cohort-based, in-person incubation.
  3. Venture Studio Support: Access to a prototyping lab, small-volume manufacturing facility, and digital media studio for technical development.
  4. Immigration Support: Assistance for eligible international teams in securing permanent residency through the Canadian Startup Visa pathway

What an Applicant can Obtain

  • Technical Resources: Direct access to an experienced team of engineers and designers, plus a prototyping lab and manufacturing facility.
  • Canadian Residency: A path to permanent residence in Canada for eligible startup teams and their families.
  • Mentorship: Personalized training from industry experts on pricing strategy, crowdfunding, and product-market fit.
  • Investor Access: Guidance on the North American capital-raising process and introductions to investor networks.