DMZ, the startup incubator at Toronto Metropolitan University, is taking applications until Nov. 20 for Validator. This 10-week program helps Black founders test whether customers want their product before they build it.
The program is aimed at founders at the earliest stage. DMZ describes it as helping founders "move from idea to market validation" through structured learning, short work sprints, and expert coaching, according to the program page.
The call comes as Black founders get a tiny share of Canadian venture money. Only 0.15% of venture capital deployed in Canada in 2025 went to Black founders, according to the Black Startup Funding Report by BKR Capital and Rep Matters, as cited by BetaKit.
Who can apply
Applicants must identify as Black, be based in Ontario, and run or plan a technology-driven business, DMZ says. Founders can apply with an idea, a solution they are testing, or an existing business facing problems.
Founders must commit to all 10 weeks, talk to customers and test their assumptions, according to the page. The program also teaches founders to use AI tools to test ideas, and participants may get a chance to pitch at a demo day.
What is not disclosed
The program page does not list a fee, a start date, the number of spots, or any grant or investment for participants. It names no program lead. Applications go through DMZ's online portal.
DMZ's Black founder programs
Validator is part of DMZ's Black Innovation Programs, which launched in 2019. DMZ says the programs have supported more than 2,500 Black-identifying founders and given out more than $3.2 million in grants and services, BetaKit reported.
DMZ held its sixth annual Black Innovation Summit in Toronto in late October. Edtech startup Hey Cleo won the top prize, a $100,000 investment from DMZ Ventures and a $10,000 grant from the Black Founders Network, according to BetaKit. Healthtech company Cuvris received $50,000 from DMZ Ventures, and Carbon Saver won a $10,000 grant from Pitch Better.
DMZ Ventures is still finalizing the terms of those investments, Startup Researcher reported.
