What is a circular business idea?

A circular business lowers demand for virgin resources by reducing or recirculating materials within the supply chain. Circular processes include reduction, reuse and repair, redistribution, reconditioning, and recycling. Examples of circular business models:

What stage of venture can apply?

The Project Zero Incubator accepts ventures across all stages of the start-up journey, from a lightbulb idea to an already-operating small business.

Where does my venture have to be located?

To be eligible, your venture’s operations must be based in Canada. The program is run virtually.

When do applications open?

Applications open on April 21, 2026.

How long does the incubator run for?

The incubator runs from July through December.

What time commitment does the program require?

Project Zero requires a time commitment of approximately 12 hours per month. This includes participation in 2-hour virtual sessions every 2 weeks, monthly coaching calls, and approximately 4 hours per month for assignments, readings, and miscellaneous communications.

How much does it cost to participate?

This program is free for all accepted participants.

INCUBATOR

For startups and innovators advancing Canada’s circular economy

Build and launch your venture through structured programming, expert-led sessions and 1:1 coaching.

Meet our Ventures

APPLY NOW

WE SUPPORT INNOVATORS WHOSE SOLUTIONS LEAD THE WAY TOWARD A REGENERATIVE CIRCULAR ECONOMY IN CANADA.

Project Zero’s six-month, free business incubator program offers a foundation of entrepreneurial skills, circular economy expertise, ongoing mentorship, and access to a network of like-minded organizations and leaders.

PRESS RELEASE

The Incubator supports Canada-based entrepreneurs operating within the circular economy.

Waste to resource

(e.g., upcycling)

Product life extension

(e.g., repair services)

Sharing economy

(e.g., container sharing)

Product as a service

(e.g., leasing equipment)

Circular
connectors

(e.g., network or hub)

Clean technology

(e.g., energy)

Credit: Timber Tiles, 2022 Cohort

Credit: Sustain Grooming, 2024 Cohort

HOW IT WORKS

APRIL

Applications open from April 21 to June 19. Apply here!

MAY

Virtual Info Session on May 20 at 12PM (Pacific Time)

Join the Project Zero team for a rundown on what the Incubator is, how it works, what's included, and who it is catered to. Register here!

JULY

Each venture is matched with a business coach, meeting monthly to provide mentorship, facilitate connections, and jump hurdles.

Ventures participate in monthly virtual sessions hosted by industry experts, covering entrepreneurship and sustainability fundamentals.

In tandem with sessions, ventures complete assignments that build towards a comprehensive business plan.

DECEMBER

Ventures compete in the final pitch event, presenting to an audience of investors, industry experts, and media.

APPLICATIONS OPEN ACROSS CANADA

BUILD, LAUNCH AND SCALE YOUR VENTURE

For the first time, the Project Zero Incubator is going nationwide, accepting applications from ventures across Canada until June 19.

APPLY NOW

PROGRAM BENEFITS

STRUCTURED PROGRAMMING

Build a foundation of entrepreneurial skills through virtual sessions and assignments, culminating in a complete business plan and investor-ready pitch by the end of the program.

TAILORED SUPPORT

Receive support and connections tailored for whatever phase you’re in, meeting you where you’re at in your start-up journey.

ACCESS TO EXPERTS

Build your network and receive one-on-one feedback from experts in the circular economy, the entrepreneurial space, and more.

ONGOING MENTORSHIP

Meet regularly with your assigned business coach to brainstorm, hurdle jump, and receive feedback.

OUR IMPACT

107+

Ventures INCUBATED

$24M

revenue generated

175+

GREEN JOBS CREATED

2,650

EVENT ATTENDEES

115

COMMUNITIES IMPACTED

MEET OUR VENTURES

2025
COHORT

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2024 COHORT