Halton & Hamilton, Ontario – January 29, 2025 – Innovation Factory is thrilled to announce 10 companies have been selected for the latest cohort of its Runway program. This milestone marks another step in fostering Canada’s thriving tech ecosystem and attracting global talent to the region.
Launched in 2021, the Runway program is an initiative of Innovation Factory, designed to accelerate growth and assist international start-ups in establishing their footprint in Canada through the federal government’s Start-Up Visa program.
The 10 company cohort will benefit from a comprehensive suite of services, including personalized business mentorship, access to strategic networks, and workspace solutions to establish operations in the Hamilton-Halton area. Over the coming months, they will work closely with mentors and local economic development teams to accelerate their growth with the expectation of transitioning seamlessly into the Canadian market.
According to David Carter, CEO of Innovation Factory, “In welcoming these new companies, we celebrate the ongoing global reach and impact of the Runway program. These companies exemplify the innovative spirit and potential we aim to foster. They will not only enhance our vibrant tech ecosystem but also contribute significantly to the prosperity of our communities.”
Since its inception, the Runway program has received over 500 applications, and has selected and supported 37 companies to date. For these companies, the Runway program has been instrumental in their success.
Milad Parsa, CEO of Runaso; a company that designs and manufactures specialty vehicles to mobilize businesses and enable them to provide their services regardless of location shared, “The Runway program by Innovation Factory has been a game-changer for our journey. With access to impactful resources like tailored courses, insightful mentorship, and strategic connections, we were empowered to evolve our business and gear up to capture the North American market, with our sights set on global expansion. Their unwavering support also made our soft landing seamless, enabling us to overcome immigration challenges and focus on building a brighter future.”
Similarly, Allison Le, Co-founder and CEO of Cooco, a Vietnamese start-up offering an app and online community platform that simplifies home cooking by tracking food purchases and waste while promoting delicious, easy to make meals highlighted the program’s impact saying “The Runway program was our bridge to success in Canada’s competitive business world. As newcomer entrepreneurs, the program provided us with essential insights, tools, and connections to navigate the Canadian market. With expert mentorship and strategic support, we went from feeling overwhelmed to confidently establishing our business in a new country. Innovation Factory didn’t just help us start a business—they helped us belong in the Canadian entrepreneurial ecosystem.”
Innovation Factory remains committed to the growth and success of start-ups and entrepreneurs, fostering collaboration, innovation, and sustainable business practices. The Runway program continues to play a pivotal role in attracting and supporting international companies ready to make their mark in the Canadian tech industry.
Applications for the Runway program are open all year. For more information or to apply, visit: runway.innovationfactory.ca
About Innovation Factory
Innovation Factory is a not-for-profit business accelerator, serving as the catalyst for technology innovation in Southern Ontario since 2010. Innovation Factory provides business services, training, mentorship, and strategic connections to drive market adoption, leverage intellectual property, and increase revenues, investment, and jobs. Innovators can also access sector-specific resources including exclusive smart transportation test environments and data; and a formal life science and health innovation ecosystem.
Backgrounder: Runway by Innovation Factory Cohort of Companies
Auroraio
Auroraio is an AI-powered video creation software designed for businesses. It simplifies the video creation process, reduces reliance on large production teams, and offers subscription and pay-per-use pricing models. Country of origin – China
Awaken.AI
Awaken.AI offers an AI-driven platform for creating 3D voxel models, targeting game developers and designers. Country of origin – China
WOSADO
WOSADO is a beauty brand specializing in soft magnetic eyelashes using its exclusive and patent-protected R-SLM technology. Country of origin – China
Chatty
Chatty is a social podcasting platform that integrates social media features with traditional podcasting, offering creators tools for recording, editing, sharing, and monetizing podcasts. Country of origin – Turkey
Immersive VR Solutions
Immersive VR Solution specializes in augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) solutions, targeting industries such as architecture, real estate, and construction. Country of origin – South Korea
Mailbooth
Mailbooth aims to revolutionize the mailing process by installing secure mail booths in densely populated areas, offering customers convenient and accessible parcel drop-off points. Country of origin – India / Kenya
Praise Group Solutions Inc
Praise Group offers a software solution for SMEs to manage the after-sales service of electronic devices. Country of origin – India / Israel / Iran / Bahamas
RoboLABs
RoboLABs develops and manufactures self-driving platforms and service robots, specializing in disinfection, delivery, and cleaning, with patent protection. Country of origin – Turkey / China
SafeNest Guardian
SafeNest Guardian is a home security company offering IoT-based solutions for protection against both external threats and internal hazards. Country of origin – China
WellNest
WellNest offers the WellNest Pod, a smart home technology platform designed to enhance the lives of seniors. Country of origin – Iran
