MaRS Discovery District expands global reach with second international incubator program in partnership with Invest Northern Ireland
Uniting Canada and Northern Ireland to drive innovation, economic growth and global competitiveness.
TORONTO, January 20, 2025 – MaRS Discovery District today kicks off recruitment for its second international incubator program in collaboration with Invest Northern Ireland. Expanding its international footprint, MaRS is introducing new programs to bridge more regions and create stronger transatlantic connections. This initiative is designed to help high-potential Northern Ireland technology-driven businesses establish a foothold in Canada’s dynamic innovation ecosystem. Applications are open from January 20 to 31, 2025.
A unique gateway to North America: The sector-agnostic program will welcome 10 companies for a transformative six-month incubation, featuring virtual programming and an exclusive market visit to Canada. Participants will gain access to industry experts, investors and commercialization opportunities, accelerating their ability to scale internationally. The program is ideal for science and technology-driven businesses that have successfully tested products or services, generated over £100k income, and have the capacity for global expansion.
“Canada is more attractive than ever for global startups looking to scale, driven by evolving opportunities across North America. Supported by a thriving innovation ecosystem and a strong commitment to sustainable growth, Canada offers a stable and compelling environment for companies to achieve long-term success,” said Jason MacFarlane, vice president, innovation ecosystem MaRS Discovery District. “This program offers Northern Ireland businesses a gateway to international expansion, leveraging Canada’s business friendly environment and MaRS’ commercialization expertise to unlock new opportunities and further strengthen cross-border innovation and economic ties.”
The sector-agnostic incubator provides a tailored pathway for Northern Ireland businesses to access the Canadian market while benefiting from MaRS’ extensive commercialization support. Entrepreneurs will gain insight into business expansion strategies, investment landscape and partnership opportunities that can accelerate their growth.
“Our partnership with MaRS Discovery District is a vital step in providing Northern Ireland’s most promising technology-driven businesses with the resources, mentorship, and connections needed to succeed in North America,” said George McKinney, director of technology & services at Invest NI. “Through this collaboration, we are creating a strong pipeline for companies to enter and scale in Canada, leveraging MaRS’ expertise and network to accelerate their global growth.”
Applications for the MaRS Global Incubator Program are open from January 20 to 31, 2025. For more details and to apply, click here.
Media contact:
Wendy Bairos
wbairos@marsdd.com
416-831-9820
MaRS Discovery District
About MaRS
MaRS Discovery District is a charitable organization and North America’s largest urban innovation hub, dedicated to helping Canadian technology companies succeed. With a focus on climate, health sciences and other emerging technologies, MaRS supports startups tackling some of the world’s most pressing issues. Founded in 2000, MaRS spans more than 1.5 million square feet of cutting-edge office, lab, meeting and event space in downtown Toronto across two locations — the MaRS Centre and MaRS Waterfront. Since 2010, MaRS has helped ventures generate $11.5 billion in cumulative revenue, raise $19 billion in funding, as well as create and maintain more than 33,000 jobs. The MaRS platform also includes MaRS IAF, one of Canada’s top seed-stage venture funds. Through its world-class facilities, strategic programs and partnerships, MaRS accelerates the adoption of groundbreaking Canadian technology and bolsters a globally competitive innovation ecosystem.
About Invest Northern Ireland
Invest Northern Ireland (Invest NI) is the economic development agency for Northern Ireland, dedicated to driving regional growth by supporting businesses, fostering innovation and attracting international investment. With a focus on developing a competitive and vibrant economy, Invest NI provides tailored support for startups, established companies and global investors. Its services include financial assistance, expert advice and connections to industry networks, helping businesses expand their reach, boost productivity and access new markets. Invest NI also promotes Northern Ireland’s unique strengths in key sectors such as technology, manufacturing, life sciences and creative industries, showcasing the region as a world-class hub for innovation and talent. Whether you’re a local entrepreneur or an international organization, Invest NI is your partner in achieving sustainable growth and long-term success.