Communitech and T-Hub, an incubator based in India, announced it is accepting applications for the Global Bridge program, which is dedicated to helping Canadian startups expand to Indian markets.
Through the program, T-Hub will help Canadian startup scale their operations in India. Specifically, T-Hub will mentor Canadian entrepreneurs to offer solutions to Indian consumers.
Companies participating in the program will also receive support in product localization, business model validation in the Indian market, as well as advice on the local business culture. Companies will have access to an entrepreneur-in-residence, as well as opportunities to connect with corporate partners, and participate in demo days and networking events.
“This is an opportunity for India and Canada to strengthen their partnerships and facilitate innovations that solve real problems.”
“T-Hub is the anchor to the global startup ecosystem for India. Being the world’s third-largest economy on purchasing power parity and the fourth fastest-growing economy, India unlocks huge opportunities for global entrepreneurs to scale their businesses,” said Jay Krishnan, CEO of T-Hub. “The Global Bridge program is a shining example of how key ecosystems that have great IP and an exploding market can come together. This is an opportunity for India and Canada to strengthen their partnerships and facilitate innovations that solve real problems.”
Communitech said selected companies will receive two-and-a-half months of virtual coaching and access to resources in Canada, followed by three weeks of working in the Indian market. In India, representatives from each company will participate in formal programming in Hyderabad and have the opportunity to network and travel for sales meetings across India. Each company will receive up to $4,000 to offset travel and accommodation fees.
“India offers an immense opportunity as a market for Canadian companies looking to expand globally,” said Lisa Cashmore, director of international strategy at Communitech. “To be able to access this market while having the support of an organization like T-Hub and a program like Global Bridge is a huge asset. Being accepted into this program offered by Communitech, the Canadian Digital Media Network and India’s T-Hub will result in a much more successful entry into India for Canadian tech companies.”
To be eligible for the Global Bridge program, applicants must be working on a solution in the cleantech, healthtech, and B2B enterprise sectors. The applicants must have a viable product that generates revenue, as well as a proven business model that can be translated to the Indian market.
Applications are open until August 15.
Photo via Unsplash.