NEXT AI 2027 accelerator for Canadian AI startups

NEXT AI is a founder and venture development program from NEXT Canada for startups that build on artificial intelligence. Applications for the 2027 cohort open on 15 October 2026.

The program is free. It takes no equity and gives no funding. Founders get a curriculum taught by business school faculty and AI researchers, access to Venture Managers and scientists in residence, workshops, free office space in Toronto and Montreal, and in kind perks from partners such as NVIDIA, AWS and Osler. Near the end, ventures are introduced to investors interested in early stage AI.

Companies must be incorporated in Canada and owned in majority by Canadian citizens and permanent residents. AI must be core to the company. The ideal team has a CEO and a CTO, and each participating founder must hold at least 10% of the shares. Teams with a prototype and early traction are preferred, but idea stage projects with strong technology are also welcome.

There are two sites. The Toronto program runs from March to August 2027, with in person programming in downtown Toronto from May. The Montreal site runs from March to September 2027 and can be followed remotely from anywhere in Canada, with two required events in Montreal.

Applications close on 9 December 2026. Founders can sign up on the NEXT AI page to be told when the form opens, and can join open houses and webinars first.

Quick answers

Does NEXT AI take equity or give funding?

No. The program takes no equity and gives no funding, but ventures meet a network of angels, VCs and other investors.

Can I keep my job during the program?

Yes, part time work is allowed. Mandatory sessions take 6 to 8 hours a week and usually run in business hours.

Can a solo founder apply?

Yes, but a solo founder is much less likely to be accepted. NEXT AI looks for a strong business lead and a strong technical lead.