launch your business in no time with our spark fund

SPARKFund is a $1,000 grant that helps our YCEO grads cover some of their start up costs.

Planning is never the end of a business idea, you need cash to get things moving and SPARKFund is designed to give you the funding you need to get your business off the ground.

Available for YCEO alumni.

Learn about YCEO

funding available for bits alumni

SPARKFund is a $1000 grant that helps our BITS YCEO alumni to invest in their new business ideas, right after graduation. If you’re ready to make your ideas a reality, the SPARKFund gives you a chance to do just that in no time.

What is the spark fund?

More than just funding.

Apply for SPARKFund less than a week after graduation from the YCEO program

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Create a return on your investment from the 8-week YCEO program

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“To my fellow entrepreneurs, if you're looking for a program that not only equips you with essential business skills but also offers the chance to win funding for your startup, I highly recommend the YCEO program by BITS. It's been a game-changer for my startup!”

—Judy Kim

More reasons to apply

10 grants assigned per cohort

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Quick application turnaround time

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Opportunity to validate your business

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Is the Spark fund right for you?

You are eligible for this program if you…

Live in Canada

Are 18 to 34

Participated in a BITS program and meets the graduation requirements*

Are a Canadian Citizen, Permanent Resident, or Temporary Resident**

*Have graduated from the YCEO program by:

  • Attending 80% of classes

  • Pitching your business at the end of the program

  • Submit all required feedback forms

**Funding programs are only available for Canadian Citizens and Permanent Residents

Spark Fund FAQs

  • Complete the brief application form within one week of graduating from the YCEO program.

  • The BITS team takes all eligible applications into consideration and assess business idea proposals in accordance with a criteria that includes idea viability, capacity and effective use of funds. We will also take into consideration the work you did in the YCEO program, such as program attendance, participation and pitch score.

  • Once approved, you’ll complete a grant agreement prior to the release of funds via e-transfer. You will also complete a survey feedback in four months.

  • Winners are selected based on the following three criteria:

    1. Idea viability: Is there a market for what you’re offering?

    2. Entrepreneur’s capacity: Do you personally have the skills/abilities/resources to carry out the business?

    3. Effectiveness of funds: Will the $1,000 make a significant enough difference towards their goals?

  • Winners are announced by email one week from the application deadline

  • Applicants can inform us of their plans for their business ideas on the application form.

  • Feel free to reach out to our team at bucks@businessinthestreets.com.