Espace CDPQ is proud to support innovative sectors that contribute to the growth, development and globalization of Québec SMEs by creating promising sectors. Espace CDPQ has teamed up with Mila, the Quebec Artificial Intelligence Institute, to help create a new culture of collaboration between the academic and business communities specializing in artificial intelligence. To that end, it has created the Espace CDPQ | Axe IA at Mila, which will contribute to the growth of technology companies specializing in artificial intelligence.

Based at the new MILA located at 6666 Saint-Urbain in Montreal, the Espace CDPQ | Axe IA will include technology start-ups with strong growth potential, allowing them to capitalize on the knowledge, transfer of technology, training and synergy provided by the MILA ecosystem to drive the commercialization of their products and/or services. Moreover, start-ups will be able to further leverage the value created by the collaborative ecosystem which Espace CDPQ is already providing to its partners in the form of financing, innovation and support.

The Espace CDPQ | Axe IA is continually looking for start-ups interested in joining the project. Applicants should complete the attached form, which the selection committee will use as the basis for assessing candidacy for a spot in the Espace CDPQ | Axe IA

 

APPLY HERE

 

Upcoming application period: Fall 2019.

For more information : [email protected]

Selection criteria

Start-ups are selected based on the following criteria:

  • Technology: Possess an R&D plan covering the short, medium and long term that sets out the methodology, resources, expected results and a measurement and results schedule and consistency with Mila’s values and priority focus areas; a demonstration of the impact of collaborating with Mila on developing AI products
  • Synergy : Ability to create value within the ecosystem and take advantage of it for business development; commit to being present and participating in events, sharing your experience and your experience within the Mila community.
  • Entrepreneurial team: Team inclined to develop technical and business capabilities to support planned growth.
  • The company: Targets the commercialization of an AI product or a product with new AI components; has a proof of concept, demonstrates financial soundness (access to financing); demonstrates a willingness to pursue growth based on a strategic plan and ambitious R&D, where proximity to Mila significantly increases its ability to accelerate its commercialization.

Benefits for start-ups in Espace CDPQ | Axe IA at Mila

  • Access to collaborative session with other startups to solve problems, develop and market AI products.
  • Access to technological, business and entrepreneurial support to promote financing and marketing of AI products.
  • Access to Mila’s talent, particularly via the R&D and technology transfer group, researchers and students (interns).
  • Proxomity of the Mila ecosystem
    • Take part in the scientific life at Mila
    • Take advantage of preferred access to training
    • Benefit from the use of meeting rooms and common spaces, including the main common area, coffee stations/kitchenettes or break areas.
  • Dedicated office in Espace CDPQ | Axe IA at Mila (share its use with members of your team).
  • Integrate into the Espace CDPQ community, providing access to an ecosystem of investors, events and the use of meeting rooms in downtown Montréal.
  • Take full advantage of the Mila influence by being a resident partner of Espace CDPQ | Axe IA at Mila

Commitment by start-ups

  • Develop the growth plan, submitted to and revised by the head of the Espace CDPQ | Axe IA as well as integrating the support offered.
  • Make a positive contribution to the ecosystem by actively participating in opportunities to connect with community members.
  • Adhere to Mila’s values
  • Adhere to Espace CDPQ
  • Complies with the Espace CDPQ | Axe IA code of conduct.

Coaching program

  • Technological coaching: Liaise with the Mila’s R&D and technology transfer teams.
  • Business coaching: Create opportunities for networking with the Mila community, problem solving with peers, consultants and financing to accelerate the commercialization phase.
  • Entrepreneurial coaching: Provide coaching and periodic follow ups to support the realization of an ambitious growth plan.

Terms and conditions

  • All inclusive package.
  • $800/month, dedicated office.
  • A 12-month term, renewable based on:
    • Progress on a customized support plan developed at the start.
    • Contribution to the Mila ecosystem.