What is the C100 Fellows Program?
The C100 Fellows program empowers Canada’s most promising early-stage founders as they build category-defining companies in Canada.
Selected founders access world-class mentorship and a risk-embracing community of like-minded builders through three transformative components:
- 48Hrs in the Valley: Two immersive, off‑the‑record, in-person experiences that expose you to the Valley mindset and real‑world insights.
- Fundraising Masterminds: Intimate, founder-led sessions to help refine your pitch and overcome capital‑raising challenges with proven strategies from seasoned operators and investors.
- Expert Mentorship: Personalized guidance from experienced founders and industry leaders to help you scale.
How is the C100 Fellows Program different from other Canadian accelerator programs?
The C100 Fellows Program is for early-stage Canadian founders (seed to Series A) leading companies with up to $5 million in revenue. We leverage a unique, globally connected network primarily based in the Bay Area to deliver:
- Immersive in-person experiences (like 48Hrs) that expose you to the Silicon Valley mindset.
- Focused fundraising masterminds that address real capital-raising challenges.
- Structured expert mentorship for personalized, actionable guidance.
What types of companies should apply?
We’re looking for Canada’s most promising early-stage tech startups with strong early signs of product-market fit. Ideal applicants have secured seed funding or are generating up to $5M in revenue, and possess a clear vision for global impact.
How do you select companies to participate in the C100 Fellows Program?
Our competitive selection process starts with a thorough online application reviewed by our Selection Committee. Applicants are assessed on growth potential, team strength, and how well they fit with our program’s ethos. Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews where we dive deeper into your vision, challenges, and engagement willingness with the C100 community.
Can you describe the application process for the C100 Fellows Program?
The application process for the C100 Fellows Program involves a brief online application (including a 2-minute founder video submission) where founders are asked to provide details about their startup, founding team, and growth trajectory. Our selection committee then assesses the applications and invites shortlisted candidates for an interview. Final candidates are selected based on a holistic review of their potential, readiness for growth, and cultural fit with the C100 community.
What if we don’t meet all the criteria?
We recognize that some applicants may not meet all criteria. If your company meets most of the suggested criteria, we encourage you to apply.
How much does it cost?
Thanks to the generous support from our community, the C100 Fellows Program does not charge program fees or require equity. Founders are responsible for their travel expenses to in-person gatherings, but the program may absorb accommodation costs during these events to ease participation.
How does the program operate after 48Hrs?
The C100 Fellows Program is structured around two pivotal 48Hrs events, each designed to maximize founder growth and networking. After the initial 48Hrs, Fellows have time to apply insights and deepen the connections they’ve made. This is followed by a second 48Hrs gathering midway through the program, each event building on the previous to address evolving challenges and opportunities. Between these cornerstone events, the Fellows engage in a mix of in-person and virtual meetings that maintain momentum and foster ongoing collaboration and support.
What kind of support can I expect from the program regarding networking?
Networking is a cornerstone of the C100 Fellows Program. Through the fellowship, Fellows will have multiple opportunities to connect with a global network of seasoned builders and industry leaders through both structured and informal settings. This includes exclusive events, one-on-one mentorship sessions, and group gatherings, all designed to facilitate meaningful connections that can support personal and professional growth. In addition, C100’s Executive in Residence & Head of Strategy, Afraj Gill, is available to assist Fellows with their fundraising strategy, operational and scaling challenges, as well as navigating complex leadership and co-founder dynamics.
Are there specific industries you focus on within the Fellows Program?
While the C100 Fellows Program is primarily aimed at technology and tech-enabled companies, we are industry-agnostic within that scope. We encourage founders from a wide range of tech sectors to apply, whether in SaaS, health tech, fintech, AI, or other emerging tech verticals, as long as they demonstrate a clear potential for global impact and growth.
What is expected from Fellows during the program?
Fellows are expected to fully engage with every element of the program. This includes attending both 48Hrs events (in October 2025 and January 2026), participating in follow-up virtual and in-person sessions, and leveraging our mastermind and mentorship tracks. Active involvement is key to unlocking the full benefits of the program and building lasting, impactful relationships within the Fellows community and the broader C100 network.
How does the Fellows Program handle confidentiality?
We uphold a strict confidentiality policy to ensure that all discussions within the program—especially during closed-door sessions and peer group meetings—remain private. This allows Fellows to openly share sensitive information and seek advice on critical issues without concerns about external exposure. All participants, including mentors and guest speakers, agree to this confidentiality policy as part of their involvement in the program.
