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MaRS introduces 2025 global incubator cohort for Northern Ireland startups

Supported by Invest Northern Ireland, nine tech companies receive hands-on mentorship, market access, and commercialization support through MaRS 

 

TORONTO, April 15, 2025 – MaRS Discovery District along with Invest Northern Ireland has kicked off the 2025 cohort of the MaRS Global Incubator Program, providing nine high-potential, technology-driven businesses from Northern Ireland with the tools, connections, and expertise to establish a foothold in Canada’s thriving innovation ecosystem.

The six-month initiative combines virtual programming with an immersive market visit to Toronto, equipping startups with tailored market-entry strategies, mentorship from industry leaders, and direct access to investors and commercialization opportunities. Designed for companies with proven product-market fit and at least £100k in revenue, the program offers a structured pathway to North American expansion.

Introducing the 2025 Cohort of Northern Ireland companies:

  • Born Maverick – Sustainable bioengineering solutions for food manufacturers to adopt ethical alternatives without infrastructure overhauls.
  • CATAGEN – A green emissions testing facility focused on reducing harmful tailpipe emissions and optimizing catalyst development.
  • Dia Beta Labs – Next-generation therapeutics for metabolic diseases leveraging over 30 years of research to tackle diabetes and obesity.
  • Fortesium – Regulatory software solutions that enhance efficiency, transparency, and user experience in healthcare and other sectors.
  • Rubik Technologies – Cloud-based solutions for mid-sized and enterprise manufacturing businesses to improve decision-making and profitability.
  • Seedling Learning – An educational game authoring enabling teachers to create and deploy personalized learning experiences.
  • Senergy Innovations – Sustainable energy products and systems designed to support global clean energy access.
  • Srotas Health – AI-driven clinical trial solutions improving patient recruitment, retention, and trial efficiency.
  • Validaid – Automated Donor Advised Fund (DAF) services, offering financial insights to donors, advisors, and wealth managers.

Supporting international expansion

The MaRS Global Program, which is funded by Invest Northern Ireland and the Northern Ireland Office, equips startups with the insights, expertise, and connections needed to succeed in North America. Participants gain hands-on market experience in Canada, direct access to industry leaders, and opportunities to engage with investors and potential partners. The program fosters collaboration, helping startups build relationships with business leaders, industry professionals, and Canadian entrepreneurs. Additionally, participants receive support in global scaling, market insights, and brand positioning, including PR and media exposure through the MaRS PR Accelerator.

“As we begin this year’s cohort, we’re thrilled to provide these exceptional Northern Ireland companies with a gateway to North America,” said Hadeer Abdelhamid, Manager, MaRS Discovery District. “Canada offers a unique combination of market stability, innovation-friendly policies, and access to top talent, making it an ideal destination for ambitious startups ready to scale. Through this program, participants will receive hands-on support to navigate market entry, connect with key partners, and drive long-term business success.”

Strengthening transatlantic innovation collaboration

The partnership between MaRS Discovery District and Invest Northern Ireland plays a crucial role in bridging international innovation ecosystems, providing Northern Ireland startups with direct access to Canada’s deep technology expertise, funding landscape, and commercialization pathways.

“Our collaboration with MaRS is a game-changing opportunity for Northern Ireland’s technology sector,” said Gren Armstrong, Head of Entrepreneurship & Future Growth, Invest NI. “Through this program, we are equipping high-potential businesses with the strategic support needed to establish themselves in North America, opening doors to new opportunities, partnerships, and investments.”

Media contact:

Wendy Bairos
wbairos@marsdd.com
416-831-9820
MaRS Discovery District