A $75,000 non-dilutive cash prize awaits Canada’s most promising fintech startup at this year’s Startupfest in Montreal.
The Fintech Grant—funded by Digital Commerce Group and Apaylo—will be awarded to one standout early-stage company, providing a significant boost to scale operations and expand visibility.
More than just funding, the grant serves as a launchpad. It offers founders exposure to investors, industry leaders, and the broader fintech ecosystem. The initiative is designed to accelerate the growth of Canadian fintech ventures while amplifying their stories and strategic connections.
To qualify, startups were required to be Canadian-incorporated private companies at the seed stage (pre-Series A) with a minimum viable product, evidence of market traction, and a clear path to revenue. Founding teams also needed to demonstrate domain expertise and the ability to scale.
Applications closed earlier this year, and the 10 finalists for the 2025 Fintech Grant have now been announced: AML Incubator, AYA Pay, EZO, Kweeqpay, Mantle, Neobanc, Prestar, Ready Plan Go, The Matriarch Company, and WareMatch.
These teams will pitch live on July 9th at Startupfest Village. The top five will advance to final deliberations on July 10th, with the $75,000 winner revealed during the festival’s closing ceremony on July 11th.
While Startupfest does not guarantee that investment prizes ultimately close, the track record is strong: over 95% of past Startupfest investment awards—nearly 30 in total—have successfully completed funding.
For Canada’s emerging fintech leaders, the Fintech Grant offers not only capital but a platform to accelerate their journey.
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