$
800
M+
Seed Capital Raised
About Us
The University of Toronto Early Stage Technology (UTEST) Program provides support to University of Toronto entrepreneurs to create research-based companies. In partnership with Toronto Innovation Acceleration Partners (TIAP) and with the financial support of the Connaught Fund, it provides companies with investment capital, mentoring, business strategy and incubation space at the University of Toronto St. George Campus.
U of T ranks #
1
in the world for industry, innovation and infrastructure (Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2020)
180
+
Portfolio Companies
$
300
M +
Raised in 2021
700
+
Jobs created
6
Acquisitions
The UTEST Program
Our 12 month program supports start-up companies based on technologies founded upon cutting-edge research from the University of Toronto. We provide access to a large network of mentors, coaching and support, in addition to intensive entrepreneurial education program provided by MaRS. Our network also provides our companies access to top professional services experts, investors and tech entrepreneurs. Moreover, we offer a dedicated work space at the University of Toronto located in the heart of Toronto’s Discovery District.
UTEST has supported more than 120 companies to raise $600m+ of follow-on investment.
Funding
UTEST will invest up to $150,000 in select companies. The UTEST investment is in the form of a SAFE. Access to follow-on investment of up to $500,000 through TIAP is also possible. We help our companies find and apply to provincial and federal funding resources.
History
2012 UTEST was founded by the University of Toronto Division of the Vice-President, Research & Innovation (VPRI) and MaRS Innovation, now called Toronto Innovation Acceleration Partners (TIAP)
Testimonials
I cannot thank Kurtis and Hassan enough for all their help. As a founder, you need mentors that you can trust and know that they have the best intentions.
Amirreza Amighi, PhD, CEO, Mazlite Inc.
UTEST has been pivotal in our journey by providing us a launchpad to start and grow Xesto. Through UTEST, we had access to on-campus office space with other U of T startups in similar growth stages which made our workplace a collaborative environment for everyone to learn from each other.
Sophie Howe, CEO Xesto
Founding Partners
