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The Discovery Foundation Programs

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Accelerator Overview

The Discovery Foundation Mosaic Accelerator programs offer

  • Online synchronous and asynchronous workshops and training in groups and 1-on-1

  • Experienced BIPOC and non-BIPOC industry experts, entrepreneurs, and educators 

  • Small cohorts of less than 15 Mosaic entrepreneurs

  • 8-week programs based on your venture stage (idea, pre-revenue, early revenue, scale/growth)

  • Weekly meetings & coaching sessions 

  • Mentorship and coaching sessions focused on navigating the many interpersonal, professional, and social challenges faced by marginalized, intersectional, & BIPOC women leaders

  • $200 fee for each 8-week program

  • Next Start: The fourth week of September 2024 - Application deadline: September 13, 2024!

Still have questions? Check out our programs.

Discovery Foundation Programs

Here are the current Discovery Foundation programs that we will be offering in Spring 2024:

Entrepreneurial Vision to Venture - 
Multiple Cohorts

(Starts September 2024 - Ideal for new, aspiring, and pre-revenue women entrepreneurs!)

Embark on an 8-week journey! Here, your bold ideas evolve into rock-solid business models. Engage in interactive workshops for ideation, target audience discovery, and customer journey crafting. Participate in brand-building challenges, strategic simulations, and website creation labs. We're all about evolving your entrepreneurial dreams into business realities. Plus, unlock exclusive resources as you progress. 

 

Engagement Rewards:

  • Complete interactive ideation exercises to unlock advanced design thinking tools.

  • Engage in audience discovery simulations to access personalized marketing insights.

  • Participate in customer journey mapping challenges for a chance to win a one-on-one session with a UX expert.

  • Join brand and pricing strategy contests for exclusive access to industry webinars.

  • Excel in website optimization and IP framework tasks to earn digital toolkits.

Women Founders and Senior Leadership Roundtables & Circles

(Starts September 2024 - Ideal for founders of in-market startups with early or ongoing revenue!)

 

Join this 8-week journey of growth and community. Share, learn, and overcome startup challenges in a supportive environment. Engage in collaborative discussions, expert-led workshops, and peer mentoring sessions, all tailored for marginalized and BIPOC women leaders. Achieve key milestones to unlock exclusive networking opportunities. (For marginalized, intersectional, and BIPOC women leading active startups!)

 

Community Benefits:

  • Participate in industry-specific strategy sessions for access to specialized startup resources.

  • Engage in networking challenges to connect with fellow entrepreneurs and potential partners.

  • Benefit from mentorship workshops to earn leadership coaching sessions.

  • Show leadership in management skill-building for a chance to present at our annual summit.

  • Active participants gain access to a dedicated support network for continuous growth.

Participants also receive digital badges and industry micro-credentials that highlight the skills and training they have received.

After each program, all participants (advisors, mentors, and entrepreneurs) will continue to be part of the online Mosaic Alumni Network and community.

Application deadline: September 13, 2024

Still have questions? Check out our frequently asked questions below.

program structure

FAQs

 

  • Who is eligible for the programs?
    Depending on the program, we will have different eligibility requirements. Many of our courses are open to all entrepreneurs. That said, preference is given to entrepreneurs with the following profile: Entrepreneurs who identify as women or non-binary Non-technical entrepreneurs or those with limited technical expertise Women and entrepreneurs from underserved and marginalized communities, such as Black, Indigenous, Latin American, Asian, Pacific Islands, Middle Eastern, North African, transgender, neurodiverse, women with disabilities, and newcomers to Canada. Building technology or technology-enabled ventures and in the early-stages of developing or scaling their business Based in Canada Technology-enabled businesses leverage technology, e.g., online "matching" platforms, mobile apps, online community, member, or customer portals, online course or training delivery, real-time messaging and communication apps, or technology used to create and deliver innovative products or services, often automating processes and streamlining operations. Examples include Uber, Airbnb, Square, Slack, Netflix, Zoom, and Amazon, which have disrupted traditional industries by offering new business models and solutions to their customers through advanced technologies. We welcome entrepreneurs from all industries and backgrounds, but are looking for participants who are committed to building sustainable, scalable, and profitable "tech-enabled" businesses. We encourage participants to think big and aim for high-growth potential. We recommend that you subscribe to our newsletter because we will be announcing future programs / events and would love to keep you posted!
  • What is a "technology-enabled" business?
    Technology-enabled businesses leverage technology, e.g., online "matching" platforms, mobile apps, online community, member, or customer portals, online course or training delivery, real-time messaging and communication apps, or technology products used to create and deliver innovative products or services, often automating processes and streamlining operations. Examples include Uber, Airbnb, Square, Slack, Netflix, Zoom, and Amazon, which have disrupted traditional industries by offering new business models and solutions to their customers through advanced technologies.
  • What is the application process?
    The application process includes completing a Mosaic Accelerator registration form. We may also conduct interviews with a select group of applicants to learn more about their business ideas and goals. But, please check out the Programs page and subscribe to our newsletter to learn about future programs, cohorts, and application deadlines.
  • Can I apply if I don't have a business idea yet?
    We do want you to apply with a business or business idea in mind. Our programs are designed to help participants develop and refine their business ideas or existing businesses, so we encourage all existing and aspiring entrepreneurs to apply.
  • Can I participate in the program if I already have a technical co-founder or partner?
    Yes, you can still participate in the program even if you have a technical co-founder or partner. Our program is designed to help intersectional women entrepreneurs develop the skills and knowledge needed to build and grow their businesses, regardless of whether they have a technical co-founder or partner.
  • What resources do I need to participate?
    In order to participate, participants must have the following hardware: Computer/Laptop Webcam Microphone Internet access Live sessions will be run digitally through Zoom and scheduled with calendar invites. Course content will be available online. A reliable internet connection is also required to stay engaged in this program.
  • What is the selection process like?
    The selection process involves a review of each application by our team of experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts. We consider a range of factors, including the viability of the business or business idea, the applicant's background and experience, and the potential for scalability and sustainability. We also conduct interviews with a select group of applicants to learn more about their business ideas and goals.
  • How much does the program cost?
    The cost of future programs will vary depending on the cohort and program, but we are committed to making our programs accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. Most 8-week programs will cost CAD200. If you have financial constraints, please reach out and we can discuss payment options.
  • When does the next program start?
    Please visit our Programs page and subscribe to our newsletter to learn about future programs, cohorts, and application deadlines.
  • How long is the program?
    The length of our programs vary from 1-2 day workshops, 8-week programs, up to 6-month programs. Please review or Programs page and subscribe to our newsletter to learn about future programs, cohorts, and application deadlines.
  • Is the program online or face-to-face?
    Currently, our programs are fully online and designed to be accessible to participants from a variety of locations. That said, we may offer in-person and hybrid opportunities for more hands-on learning and networking. Please check out our Programs page and subscribe to our newsletter to learn about future programs, cohorts, events, and application deadlines.
  • Will I be required to relocate for the program?
    No, you will not be required to relocate for the program. However, we do encourage participants to attend in-person events and workshops whenever possible to take advantage of networking opportunities.
  • How much time will I need to dedicate to the program?
    The exact amount of time will vary depending on what you specifically need to work on and the length of the program / course. We understand that you have other commitments, such as work and family, and we have allowed for flexibility within our longer programs.
  • What kind of support will I receive from the accelerator?
    Our participants receive one-on-one mentorship, access to workshops and training, networking opportunities, and access to funding opportunities. Depending on your needs, we may also provide business support services, such as legal and accounting advice, marketing and branding support, and technology development assistance.
  • How does the program support entrepreneurs that need technical help?
    The program offers support to non-technical entrepreneurs through partnerships with experts in technology and app and software development. This includes access to technical advisors, training resources, and no-code / low-code development tools.
  • Will I retain ownership of my business?
    Yes, you will retain ownership of your business. We do not take equity or ownership in our participants' businesses, but we do offer access to funding opportunities that may require an equity stake or repayment.
  • What happens if I'm not selected for the program?
    We receive many strong applications and unfortunately cannot accept all of them. If you are not selected for a specific program, we strongly encourage you to apply again in the future. We also recommend that you check out our Programs page and subscribe to our newsletter so that we can inform you about other Mosaic programs, webinars, networking events, resources, and support to help you continue developing your business.
  • What happens after the program is over?
    Our goal is to help our participants build sustainable and scalable businesses. We will continue to support our alumni after the program is over. We offer ongoing mentorship, access to funding opportunities, and networking events to help our alumni continue to grow their businesses.
  • How can I get involved with the accelerator as a mentor or sponsor?
    We welcome experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts to get involved as mentors and sponsors. To become a partner with Mosaic Accelerator, please email us at partnerships@mosaicaccelerator.com with information about your organization and how you would like to partner with us.
  • What kind of time commitment is required for mentors and advisors?
    The time commitment for mentors and advisors varies depending on their availability and the needs of the entrepreneurs they are working with. Typically, we ask advisors to commit to at least 4 hours per month, but the actual time commitment may be higher or lower depending on your circumstances and availability.
  • How will mentors be compensated for their time?
    The compensation for mentors at Mosaic Accelerator will vary depending on the mentor and their level of involvement in the program. Some mentors may volunteer their time, while others may be compensated at an hourly rate or a flat fee. The compensation will be agreed upon in advance, and all mentors will be required to sign a mentorship agreement outlining their responsibilities and compensation. Our goal is to ensure that all mentors feel valued and supported throughout their time with us, and we will work with each mentor individually to determine a compensation plan that works best for them.
  • Are there any specific industries or sectors that the program focuses on?
    The programs are open to entrepreneurs in any industry or sector, but we do have a particular focus on industries that are underrepresented by marginalized and BIPOC women.
  • How are advisors and mentors matched with companies?
    Advisors and mentors are matched with companies based on their expertise and the needs of the company. When making these matches, we take into account the stage of the company, the industry they are in, their target audience and market, and the specific challenges they are facing.
  • Can advisors or mentors participate in the program remotely?
    Absolutely! We offer online resources and tools to support remote participation, and we work with each advisor and mentor to ensure they have the support they need to participate fully in the program.
  • How does the program ensure diversity and inclusion among its mentors and partners?
    Mosaic Accelerator is committed to diversity and inclusion, and we ensure that our mentors and partners reflect the diversity of the communities we serve. We actively recruit mentors and partners from a variety of backgrounds and work to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.
  • How does the program support collaboration among mentors and advisors?
    The program supports mentorship and collaboration through regular mentorship meetings, networking events, and online resources. We also encourage mentors and advisors to collaborate and share their expertise with one another to support the growth and success of the startups in the program.
  • What kind of sponsorship opportunities are available?
    There are various sponsorship opportunities available, including sponsoring an entrepreneur, sponsoring a program, or sponsoring an event. We offer a range of support to sponsors, including branding and marketing opportunities, access to Mosaic events, and the opportunity to connect with our network of entrepreneurs and mentors. We work with each sponsor to develop a custom partnership plan that meets their specific needs and goals. Please email our team at partnerships@mosaicaccelerator.com for more information.
  • Can sponsors participate in the program's events and activities?
    Yes, sponsors are encouraged to participate in the program's events and activities. This includes mentorship meetings, pitch events, and networking opportunities.
  • Can partners and sponsors provide funding directly to the entrepreneurs?
    Yes, partners and sponsors can provide funding directly to the entrepreneurs. However, all funding must be approved by Mosaic Accelerator and must be used to support the entrepreneur's business and the program.
  • How does the program measure its success in empowering entrepreneurs?
    The program measures its success in empowering entrepreneurs and founders through a variety of metrics, including the number of businesses launched, revenue generated, jobs created, partnerships developed, and funding acquired.
  • How can I stay up to date on program updates and success stories?
    To stay up to date on program updates and success stories, please check out our Programs page and subscribe to our newsletter to learn about future programs, cohorts, events, and application deadlines, or follow us on social media.
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