Build today’s innovators for tomorrow’s economy through hands-on learning, mentorship, and real-world experience.
Early Start-Up Labs Program
The Early Start-Up Labs is a 16-week hybrid talent incubator designed to equip Black post-secondary students across Toronto and the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA) with the tools, experiences, and networks to lead in Canada’s innovation economy.
Presented by the Black Entrepreneurship Alliance (BEA) at the Black Creek Community Health Centre, with the support of Scotiabank, Technation Canada, and the York University Co-op & Career Centre, the program combines entrepreneurial training, project-based learning, and four-month paid placements with diverse-led start-ups and small businesses.
Participants gain hands-on experience, wraparound support, and professional mentorship to build confidence, transferable skills, and the career readiness needed to thrive. Each participant learns how to navigate innovation-driven workplaces while contributing meaningfully to the future of business and technology. Graduates leave with verified work experience, a professional network, and a certificate of completion recognizing their growth, leadership, and commitment to shaping the next generation of Canada’s workforce.
Apply If You’re
Topics In the Program
Understanding how innovation happens inside organizations, including startup lifecycles, systems thinking, and problem-solving frameworks.
Building professional identity, clarifying career goals, developing pitch skills, and navigating workplace environments with confidence.
Hands-on exposure to digital tools, AI, and emerging technologies, alongside problem-solving, adaptability, and leadership skills. .
A 16-week paid placement where students apply learning in real workplace settings while contributing to active projects.
Ongoing one-to-one and group mentorship supporting career development, workplace success, and leadership growth.
As a Student Employer, you’ll play a key role in preparing students for Canada’s digital economy while gaining access to emerging talent equipped with industry-relevant skills, fresh perspectives, and a strong commitment to growth.
As a Student Employer, you’ll have the opportunity to:
Early Start-Up Labs (Summer 2026)
Session Dates
May – August 2026
Where
Hybrid
Applications
Close April 1, 2026
Applications Close April 1, 2026
In partnership with
Learn more details about the program below, or get in touch with us for all other enquiries.
The Early Start-Up Labs Program is a 16-week hybrid talent incubator that prepares students for Canada’s innovation and digital economy by connecting them with startups, small businesses, and innovation-driven organizations. Through paid work placements, wraparound support, and targeted professional development, participants gain essential digital skills and hands-on experience in real workplace settings.
Wednesday, April 1, 2026
The program is delivered through a hybrid model. Students participate in BEA-led virtual professional development workshops and mentorship while completing a paid work placement that may be remote, in person, or hybrid, depending on the employer. All program components run concurrently over the 16-week term.
We welcome organizations of all sizes, across various sectors, that are dedicated to providing an innovation-driven workplace. This includes technology companies, start-ups, non-profits, and corporate innovation teams committed to inclusive workforce development.
Host employers play a critical role in providing a valuable learning experience. Your key responsibilities include:
Yes, as a host employer, you are responsible for providing the necessary tools for the job. This includes a dedicated workspace (for hybrid or in-person requirements) and any required equipment (e.g., laptop, software licenses) to enable the student to perform their duties effectively.
The program is designed to minimize the cost barrier to entry. BEA’s Early Start-Up Labs program is focused on supporting Black talent through funding from TECHNATION Black Excellence program as well as a wage subsidy top-up to ensure the student’s placement is fully funded.
There is no strict limit on the number of students an organization can host, provided you can guarantee the required level of supervision, mentorship, and quality work experience for each student. We prioritize a high-quality, structured experience over volume.
Innovation Hub Feasibility Study
Make Innovation Accessible for All. Fill out the survey to provide your insights, perspectives, and recommendations to inform a proposed Innovation Hub that will support underrepresented entrepreneurs and professionals.
The survey closes on August 18, 2023.
