NEXT Canada is a national non-profit organization that aims to develop exceptional talent to create world-class ventures and accelerate technology adoption. Established in 2010 as The Next 36 by a group of business leaders and academics, the organization has since evolved into a leader in providing innovative programming designed to foster lifelong entrepreneurship. NEXT Canada operates through three streams: NextAl, Next 36, and Next Founders, delivered through partnerships between the private sector and government to strengthen Canada’s economic health and future prosperity.
The organization is generously supported by various donors and partners, including BC, Scotiabank, EY, and Air Canada, among others. With over 700 alumni, NEXT Canada has directly impacted the creation of successful companies such as Kira Talent, Nymi, and Thalmic Labs, generating over 3,000 jobs and raising over USD 1 Billion in capital.
Programs Based on Stages
NEXT Canada offers three programs to accelerate growth and provide access to a powerful entrepreneurial network: Next 36, Next Al, and Next Founders.
Next 36 is designed for undergraduate students and recent graduates who possess an entrepreneurial mindset and big dreams. This program selects 36 of the most promising individuals from across Canada and provides them with access to tactical education, mentorship, and a network of strong entrepreneurs to help them launch their venture within eight months.
Next Al is a world-class program for Al-based ventures and technology commercialization. It identifies talented early-stage teams with ambitious solutions to solve global challenges and leverages Canada’s leadership position in Al to provide them with capital, mentorship, education, and network. Next Al is delivered on two campuses, Toronto and Montreal, in partnership with HEC Montréal.
Next Founders is a flexible program for growth-stage founders looking to scale their businesses into world-class ventures. It accepts seed and growth- stage founders and offers customized education from top minds in North America, based on individual needs and knowledge gaps.
Each program is designed to accelerate the growth of entrepreneurs and their ventures by providing them with access to a network of mentors, tactical education, and other valuable resources.
Achievements and Ambitions
Since its inception, NEXT Canada has been dedicated to accelerating the growth of Canada’s most promising entrepreneurs. With a focus on providing real-world education, mentorship, and access to a powerful entrepreneurial network, NEXT Canada has helped launch over 450 ventures that are addressing some of the most significant challenges facing our population today.
The company’s alumni have gone on to achieve impressive milestones, including recognition on Forbes 30 under 30 list, the CIX Top 20, and Linkedin’s Top 25 Startups. As the company looks towards the future, its goal is to continue to foster entrepreneurship and innovation in Canada by providing the next generation of entrepreneurs with the tools, resources, and network they need to succeed.
