{"id":9570,"date":"2024-07-04T12:42:50","date_gmt":"2024-07-04T16:42:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/?page_id=9570"},"modified":"2026-01-28T10:22:07","modified_gmt":"2026-01-28T15:22:07","slug":"food-beverage-investment-program","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/programs-streams\/food-beverage-investment-program\/","title":{"rendered":"Food Investment Program"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-2 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:100%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group full-width-bg has-background\" style=\"background-color:#fafafa\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-1 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div style=\"height:60px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:35px\">Food Investment Program<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>The Food &amp; Beverage Investment Program is an initiative funded by the National Research Council's IRAP through their CTO program. The program aims to support founders in the Food CPG, AgTech and FoodTech space fundraise as they navigate key stages in their startup journey with the aim of becoming investment ready.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Investment Program is a <strong>6-month program <\/strong>designed to support <strong>scaling CPG and Tech ventures<\/strong> in the food and beverage sector brands in the food and beverage space to be ready to secure funding.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:10%\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"732\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2024\/01\/pexels-rfstudio-3811082-1024x732.jpg\" alt=\"A group of students working at the desk\" class=\"wp-image-8317 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2024\/01\/pexels-rfstudio-3811082-1024x732.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2024\/01\/pexels-rfstudio-3811082-300x214.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2024\/01\/pexels-rfstudio-3811082-1536x1097.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2024\/01\/pexels-rfstudio-3811082-2048x1463.jpg 2048w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/732;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe title=\"YSpace Food Investment Program Showcase 2025\" width=\"1778\" height=\"1000\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/GElUoGWsyg0?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" class=\"lazyload\" data-load-mode=\"1\"><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:75px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-text-align-center\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-3 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:70%\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left\">What to expect<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">The Food and Beverage Investment Program is a six-month program focused on supporting high-growth Food CPG, AgTech, and FoodTech ventures in scaling up their operations and become investment ready.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">It is key that the founding team stays committed to the program to get the most out of it.&nbsp;We believe that at the core of all successful ventures are its founders. As such, our program is designed to develop and strengthen your knowledge of growth foundations and fundraising strategies through educational workshops and focused sprints. Founders will also be able to engage with experienced mentors, program advisors, and industry experts to strategize and execute their growth goals.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-custom-font-size is-style-outline has-small-font-size is-style-outline--1\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/news-story\/meet-our-2024-food-investment-program-cohort\/\">2024 Cohort<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:61px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-4 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div style=\"height:5px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-medium-font-size\" style=\"color:#e31837\">Community<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:5px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><meta charset=\"utf-8\">Get access to our incubation program that supports entrepreneurs throughout the funding process, so you can have guidance as you manage your business journey.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div style=\"height:5px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-medium-font-size\" style=\"color:#e31837\">Leadership development<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:5px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><meta charset=\"utf-8\">Use our mentorship and guidance opportunities with industry professionals to develop your entrepreneurial spirit and assets.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div style=\"height:5px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-medium-font-size\" style=\"color:#e31837\">Growth frameworks<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:5px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><meta charset=\"utf-8\">Create frameworks that utilize strategies that are tailored to your business\u2019s needs, while ensuring that exponential growth continues to occur.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div style=\"height:5px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-medium-font-size\" style=\"color:#e31837\">Milestone driven<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:5px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><meta charset=\"utf-8\">Get access to educational workshops that prepare you for every stage of your business journey, so you can continue to achieve your goals without the pressure of the future.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group full-width-bg has-text-align-center has-white-color has-black-background-color has-text-color has-background\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Timeline<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:26px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-5 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-small-font-size\">Applications open<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">July 14, 2025<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-small-font-size\">Applications closed<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">August 12, 2025<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-small-font-size\">Selection<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">September 2025<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-small-font-size\">Program kick off day<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">October 1, 2025<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-small-font-size\">Showcase celebration<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">March 2026<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-text-align-center\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Application process<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns application-steps is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-6 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Step: One<\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Applications are now closed. Join our program waitlist to stay updated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have any questions email us at <a href=\"mailto:yspace@yorku.ca\">yspace@yorku.ca<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-horizontal is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-2 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-custom-font-size is-style-outline has-small-font-size is-style-outline--2\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/programs-streams\/food-beverage-investment-program\/food-investment-program-application\/\">Join the Waitlist<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Step: Two<\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><meta charset=\"utf-8\">If shortlisted, applicants will be contacted by the YSpace team for an interview. The selected companies will be asked to complete an onboarding form and provide a pitch deck that will allow the programming team to better understand the business idea.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Step: Three<\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><meta charset=\"utf-8\">Accepted companies will gain access to resources and support for development. Program participants will have access to curated programming and a variety of tailored resources which include a network of industry experts, startup perks, as well as peer founder circles to continue developing their venture.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group full-width-bg has-background\" style=\"background-color:#fafafa\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Program eligibility<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Full-time founder(s) who can commit to 6-months YSpace programming<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>CPG Ventures active for over a year with Monthly Recurring Revenue of $45,000 monthly or an Annual Recurring Revenue of $500,000+<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>AgTech &amp; FoodTech Ventures pre- or post-revenue with evidence of a strong growth trajectory (will be assessed on a case-by-case basis)&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Must be for profit, incorporated in Ontario or majority Canadian owners, with 500 or less employee<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You are looking to create foundational funding insights<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You are looking to understand the funding process by Angels &amp; VCs (reading a term sheet, funding vehicles, etc)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Focus on scaling and raising capital to achieve high impact<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Driven, coachable, growth-oriented and collaborative leader(s)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently asked<\/h4>\n\n\n<style>.kt-accordion-id9570_268dd5-f0 .kt-accordion-inner-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:8px;}.kt-accordion-id9570_268dd5-f0 .kt-accordion-panel-inner{padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-right:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-left:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);}.kt-accordion-id9570_268dd5-f0 .wp-block-kadence-pane .kt-accordion-header-wrap .kt-blocks-accordion-header{padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-xxs, 0.5rem);padding-right:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-xxs, 0.5rem);padding-left:var(--global-kb-spacing-xs, 1rem);}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kt-accordion-id9570_268dd5-f0 .kt-accordion-inner-wrap{display:block;}.kt-accordion-id9570_268dd5-f0 .kt-accordion-inner-wrap .kt-accordion-pane:not(:first-child){margin-top:8px;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-accordion alignnone\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-wrap kt-accordion-id9570_268dd5-f0 kt-accordion-has-15-panes kt-active-pane-0 kt-accordion-block kt-pane-header-alignment-left kt-accodion-icon-style-arrow kt-accodion-icon-side-right\" style=\"max-width:none\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-inner-wrap\" data-allow-multiple-open=\"true\" data-start-open=\"0\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-pane kt-accordion-pane kt-accordion-pane-6 kt-pane9570_da304f-e9\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-header-wrap\"><button class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-header kt-acccordion-button-label-show\" type=\"button\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title-wrap\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title\"><strong>Who is the Food &amp; Beverage Investment Program for?<\/strong><\/span><\/span><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger\"><\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel kt-accordion-panel-hidden\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel-inner\">\n<p>We are looking for Full-Time Founders who are driven, coachable, and have a growth mindset. The ideal company will have a product in the market and have a focus on developing traction and unlocking their roadmap to scale.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-pane kt-accordion-pane kt-accordion-pane-7 kt-pane9570_2fa328-9c\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-header-wrap\"><button class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-header kt-acccordion-button-label-show\" type=\"button\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title-wrap\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title\"><strong>Will the program be on-line or in-person?<\/strong><\/span><\/span><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger\"><\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel kt-accordion-panel-hidden\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel-inner\">\n<p>The program will be conducted online with the exception of the Showcase and a <em>meet-and-greet event,<\/em> which will be in-person.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-pane kt-accordion-pane kt-accordion-pane-8 kt-pane9570_f9c108-e1\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-header-wrap\"><button class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-header kt-acccordion-button-label-show\" type=\"button\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title-wrap\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title\"><strong>How much time per week is expected to participate in the program?<\/strong><\/span><\/span><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger\"><\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel kt-accordion-panel-hidden\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel-inner\">\n<p>The program runs from October to Mid-March with a Showcase scheduled for March 2026.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For the first 4&nbsp;weeks of the program, the venture should devote a minimum of 3 hours to workshops. The rest of the program will be dedicated to 2-3 hours of monthly mentorship sessions; peer circles, pitch practice sessions, and office hours on a flexible schedule.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-pane kt-accordion-pane kt-accordion-pane-10 kt-pane9570_4e5ab9-54\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-header-wrap\"><button class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-header kt-acccordion-button-label-show\" type=\"button\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title-wrap\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title\"><strong>How much does the program cost? Do I have to give up equity?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/span><\/span><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger\"><\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel kt-accordion-panel-hidden\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel-inner\">\n<p>NOTHING! It is a free program thanks to our funder, IRAP, and we do not take any equity in the company!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-pane kt-accordion-pane kt-accordion-pane-11 kt-pane9570_832cc2-84\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-header-wrap\"><button class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-header kt-acccordion-button-label-show\" type=\"button\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title-wrap\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title\"><strong>How many ventures will be chosen?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/span><\/span><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger\"><\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel kt-accordion-panel-hidden\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel-inner\">\n<p>A maximum of 8-10 ventures will be chosen for this pilot bootcamp.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-pane kt-accordion-pane kt-accordion-pane-12 kt-pane9570_746b0f-a8\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-header-wrap\"><button class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-header kt-acccordion-button-label-show\" type=\"button\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title-wrap\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title\"><strong>Will I receive funding from the program?<\/strong><\/span><\/span><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger\"><\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel kt-accordion-panel-hidden\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel-inner\">\n<p>While there&nbsp;is no funding attached to the program, YSpace will make connections with potential investors in addition to providing training on how to get financing.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-pane kt-accordion-pane kt-accordion-pane-13 kt-pane9570_f22e9a-d2\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-header-wrap\"><button class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-header kt-acccordion-button-label-show\" type=\"button\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title-wrap\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title\"><strong>How much value will I get out of the program&nbsp;<\/strong><\/span><\/span><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger\"><\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel kt-accordion-panel-hidden\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel-inner\">\n<p>It is hard to measure the impact or value of the program as it will be different for everyone involved. However, the program offers over $60k worth of startup support paid for by YSpace, York University via dedicated mentorship, exclusive startup perks, and office hours with investors.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-pane kt-accordion-pane kt-accordion-pane-14 kt-pane9570_f44e1c-58\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-header-wrap\"><button class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-header kt-acccordion-button-label-show\" type=\"button\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title-wrap\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title\"><strong>What is the application process?<\/strong><\/span><\/span><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger\"><\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel kt-accordion-panel-hidden\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel-inner\">\n<p>This program requires that you have an IRAP membership. You are encouraged to attend an info session with IRAP to learn about their program and membership process. <strong>*Please note, you are not required to be a client before applying. Both can be done at the same time*<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Next steps would be to apply to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/programs-streams\/food-beverage-investment-bootcamp\/investment-program-application\/\">Food &amp; Beverage Investment Program Application<\/a>. Shortlisted candidates will be&nbsp;invited for a round of interviews in August&nbsp;for further due diligence. The cohort will be finalized in early September and onboarding commences for the program launch in late September&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Please note, this is a competitive program. If you are not selected there still may be other opportunities to support you at YSpace. Get in touch at <a href=\"mailto:yspace@yorku.ca\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">yspace@yorku.ca<\/a>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-pane kt-accordion-pane kt-accordion-pane-15 kt-pane9570_6f49b3-9c\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-header-wrap\"><button class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-header kt-acccordion-button-label-show\" type=\"button\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title-wrap\"><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-title\"><strong>What are the different elements of the program?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/span><\/span><span class=\"kt-blocks-accordion-icon-trigger\"><\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel kt-accordion-panel-hidden\"><div class=\"kt-accordion-panel-inner\">\n<p>There are five (5) key components within the program:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Hands-on workshops on venture growth frameworks with leading industry experts&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Office hours with a private network of investors, industry experts, and venture advisors&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A dedicated EiR mentor focused on driving your venture growth milestones&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A Pitch Day where ventures to pitch their business to potential investors&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Engaging in an active community of over 900+ ventures and like-minded peers supporting your journey&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:10%\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"455\" height=\"408\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2025\/07\/Food-Investment-Program.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12177 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2025\/07\/Food-Investment-Program.png 455w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2025\/07\/Food-Investment-Program-300x269.png 300w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 455px) 100vw, 455px\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 455px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 455\/408;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-text-align-center full-width-bg has-white-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"background-color:#e31837\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Join the Waitlist<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:12px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Applications are now closed. Join our waitlist to stay updated!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-white-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-d79bab59a24788bafe24c297e28678bb\"><meta charset=\"utf-8\">If you have any questions about the application process, email us at <a href=\"mailto:yspace@yorku.ca\">yspace@yorku.ca<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-horizontal is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-3 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-custom-font-size is-style-outline has-small-font-size is-style-outline--3\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/programs-streams\/food-beverage-investment-program\/food-investment-program-application\/\">Join the Waitlist<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group grey-bg-block has-very-light-gray-background-color has-background\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-small-font-size\"><meta charset=\"utf-8\"><strong>OUR PARTNERS AND FUNDERS<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-medium\"><a href=\"https:\/\/nrc.canada.ca\/en\/support-technology-innovation\/about-nrc-industrial-research-assistance-program\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-12-1-300x300.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-9715 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-12-1-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-12-1-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2024\/07\/Untitled-design-12-1.png 500w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 300px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 300\/300;\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Food Investment Program The Food &amp; Beverage Investment Program is an initiative funded by the National Research Council's IRAP through their CTO program. The program aims to support founders in the Food CPG, AgTech and FoodTech space fundraise as they navigate key stages in their startup journey with the aim of becoming investment ready. The [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":807,"featured_media":0,"parent":4323,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_kad_blocks_custom_css":"","_kad_blocks_head_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_body_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_footer_custom_js":"","footnotes":""},"tags":[],"class_list":["post-9570","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v24.0 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Food Investment Program - YSpace<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"The Investment Program is a 6-month program designed for support scaling CPG and Tech ventures in the food and beverage space be ready to secure funding.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/programs-streams\/food-beverage-investment-program\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Food Investment Program - YSpace\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"The Investment Program is a 6-month program designed for support scaling CPG and Tech ventures in the food and beverage space be ready to secure funding.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/programs-streams\/food-beverage-investment-program\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"YSpace\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-01-28T15:22:07+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2024\/01\/pexels-rfstudio-3811082-scaled.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"2560\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1829\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"6 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/programs-streams\/food-beverage-investment-program\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/programs-streams\/food-beverage-investment-program\/\",\"name\":\"Food Investment Program - YSpace\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/programs-streams\/food-beverage-investment-program\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/programs-streams\/food-beverage-investment-program\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2024\/01\/pexels-rfstudio-3811082-1024x732.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2024-07-04T16:42:50+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-01-28T15:22:07+00:00\",\"description\":\"The Investment Program is a 6-month program designed for support scaling CPG and Tech ventures in the food and beverage space be ready to secure funding.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/programs-streams\/food-beverage-investment-program\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/programs-streams\/food-beverage-investment-program\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/programs-streams\/food-beverage-investment-program\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2024\/01\/pexels-rfstudio-3811082-1024x732.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2024\/01\/pexels-rfstudio-3811082-1024x732.jpg\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/programs-streams\/food-beverage-investment-program\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/yspace\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Programs &amp; 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