Lab2Market Validate

Validate your idea as a business


Are you a graduate student or postdoctoral researcher looking to validate your idea with the purpose of finding business or commercial value in what you are pursuing? Lab2Market Validate is your opportunity to test and evaluate your idea in an entrepreneurial landscape. Download the Applicant Information Package to learn more.

Applications are open

Apply for our Winter 2026 cohort which runs from February to May, 2026. The deadline to apply is September 26.

 Apply now

Attend one of our upcoming info sessions August 20, September 3 or September 17 to meet our team and learn more about Lab2Market.

 

About Lab2Market

Lab2Market is a nationwide program that helps brilliant minds in graduate and postdoctoral programs reimagine their futures. Throughout the program, participants will discover a passion for entrepreneurship, build an entrepreneurial skill set, and connect with the network needed to help turn an idea into successful businesses. Innovation UBC in collaboration with SFU VentureLabs form the Pacific Hub for Lab2Market, serving BC and the Yukon.

 

Eligibility: 

  • Academic entrepreneurs who have already identified a market opportunity and are ready to validate their business idea
  • Open to research teams composed of a graduate student (masters, Ph.D. or post-doc) and the principal investigator (PI) from any faculty or discipline, at any university or college in BC or the Yukon

 

Program Overview: 

  • Regional program: Delivered by the Lab2Market Pacific Hub
  • Build your entrepreneurial skills: Learn and practice key entrepreneurial skills focused on market research, customer discovery, and IP/patent landscape
  • Grow your network: Gain access to a network of experienced researchers and entrepreneurs who provide valuable insights and mentorship
  • Commitment: full-time commitment of 30-40 hours per week
  • Duration: 4 months
  • Cost-Free Enrolment: Offered at no cost to participants
  • Apply for financial support: $10,000 Mitacs stipend available per accepted applicant team
  • Format: Some in-person pre and post programming, weekly virtual workshops
  • Program Dates: Our Winter 2026 cohort runs February - May, 2026
  • Application Deadline: September 26, 2025

Apply by September 26 to join our Winter 2026 cohort 

 

Not ready for Validate? Check out Validate Foundations, a three-day intensive virtual training program for those wanting to understand the first steps required for commercialization. 

 
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Innovation UBC signature UBC Support Programs to Advance Research Capacity

Part of the VP Research & Innovation portfolio

Innovation UBC

103-6190 Agronomy Road
Vancouver, BC Canada V6T 1Z3
Tel 604 822 8580

UBC receives support for managing its research enterprise from the federal Research Support Fund.

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