From the application process to how you can get involved with the DMZ, here are the answers to your questions.
The DMZ offers programs to founders at any stage of growth: from early-stage founders in the ideation phase to seed-stage startups ready to scale. While we focus on tech-based startups, the DMZ is sector-agnostic. Check out our Portfolio to get a sense of our world-class roster of companies. We welcome only the most innovative, high-potential companies that can benefit from our resources and extended network. As a rule, we strive to foster a collaborative space and build a highly engaged community that represents a rich variety of sectors and industries. Visit our Apply page for more details.
You must be a legal resident of Canada living in close enough proximity to the DMZ to take advantage of everything it has to offer. If you are not a legal resident in Canada, you may be interested in the Startup Visa program offered through DMZ Ventures (DMZV), an accelerator and seed fund program associated with Ryerson University and the DMZ.
We care about your startup idea, not your age. Most of our applicants are between the ages of 18 and 30, but we believe great ideas happen at every age.
Through our online application form. There are no deadlines; we accept applications on an ongoing basis.
Once accepted to the DMZ, startups are given tailored connections to potential clients and customers, mentorship, media exposure and workshops. Startups also receive dedicated workspace on one of the DMZ’s four floors and access to resources including WiFi, fully equipped meeting rooms, event space and technology, discounted services and more. Entrepreneurs benefit from the DMZ’s collaborative work environment and peer-to-peer knowledge transfer. Click here to learn more about what the DMZ offers.
We expect DMZ members to be active and engaged, through attendance at regular progress check-ins and mandatory mentorship and planning sessions. We also expect DMZ members to attend relevant events and workshops and share knowledge with fellow members. Members must also agree to the terms outlined in the DMZ’s terms and conditions, provided upon acceptance.
The initial term in the DMZ is four months. Subject to space availability, members in good standing can extend their stay after four months by opting into the paid membership program.
The DMZ uses an equity-based model for our Incubator program. The DMZ will take 2.5% equity from accepted startups in exchange for our program. We do not take equity from startups in our six-week Bootcamps. With the move to an equity-based model, DMZ’s offerings are now more accessible to early-stage startups who could not previously commit to monthly membership fees. Having an equity stake in our Incubator companies further reinforces our commitment to helping our founders see both short and long-term success.
We monitor the progress of our startups after they exit the DMZ and on average, 65 to 70 per cent of them are successful. We define success as startups that have been acquired or are growing after exiting the DMZ.
The DMZ, as part of Ryerson University, is a not-for-profit organization. We receive funding from Ryerson University, government grants and corporate partnerships. Revenue also comes in through membership and facility rental fees.
DMZ Ventures (DMZV) is an accelerator program that selects and assembles high-potential, highly scalable startups, accelerating their go-to-market success through intense process observation, education, networking and development. DMZV is a for-profit entity established and owned by Ryerson University and is affiliated with and based at the DMZ. Visit DMZV's website to learn more.