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TRL UP (Fall 2026)

Applications Open

Have an innovation or applied research project you want to take to market?

Technology Readiness Level – Up (TRL UP) is a 4-month national entrepreneurship program for students and recent graduates (within the last 2 years) from across BC and the Yukon. Receive $10,000 in funding, mentorship and industry connections, hands-on venture training

Expression of Interest deadline: April 6
Full program details and apply: program page

About Labs4

Labs4 is a national applied research commercialization engine built to help entrepreneurs, innovators, and communities transform research into real-world solutions. It unites 38 polytechnics, colleges, and universities across Canada in a coordinated effort to bridge the longstanding gap between research and commercialization.

Mission & Purpose

Labs4 focuses on turning ideas into market-ready solutions faster by combining academic expertise with industry collaboration. It emphasizes inclusive innovation, supporting equity seeking groups and Indigenous entrepreneurs nationwide. The initiative is backed by NSERC, Mitacs, and partner institutions as part of a national strategy.

How Labs4 Works

Labs4 delivers hands-on entrepreneurship training, prototype development support, and mentorship through eight Regional Hubs and three Indigenous Entrepreneurship Hubs stretching from coast to coast. These hubs help participants move from “idea to impact” with intentional speed and community focused support.

BCIT – BC & Yukon Regional Hub

BCIT is the Regional Hub, and supports the unique needs of entrepreneurs, communities, and industry partners across the BC and the Yukon. The hub connects participants with applied research expertise, labs, training, and commercialization pathways that prepare innovations for real markets.

Contact

Max Cimenti
Labs4 BC & Yukon Hub, Project Leader
max_cimenti@bcit.ca