The DMZ has launched a four-month accelerator program for insurtech startups with Aviva Canada, a property and casualty insurance group.
The program is open to early-stage insurtech startups with a service or solution for insurance in any market sector. Over the four months, the six startups will work to de-risk their company and develop their product-market fit. Startups will have access to mentorship from Aviva execs, customized sales strategies, workshops, and dedicated workspace.
“The future of our economy requires more than new products and services, but markets and systems that are capable of adopting and embracing innovation,” said Abdullah Snobar, executive director of the DMZ at Ryerson. “This program will provide opportunities for Canadian startups in fast-growing sectors to accelerate their development and facilitate introductions to key players in their market.”
After four months in the program, each of the six startups will present to Aviva Canada executives and managing director at Aviva Ventures for an investment opportunity.
In March 2016, Aviva Canada announced its partnership with the DMZ to provide mentorship to startups entering the insurance industry. So far, Aviva has worked with startups like Casalova, healthSwapp, and Zensurance.
“Building on our partnership with the DMZ at Ryerson University, programs like the one we are launching today create real opportunity to accelerate needed innovation in our industry, and ultimately that’s good for insurance buying consumers,” said Ben Isotta-Riches, chief information officer at Aviva Canada. “We want to be at the forefront of a thriving Insurtech community in Canada. This is just the beginning for us.”
Applications for the program are due by April 3.