Supporting University of Windsor-connected startups as they move from innovation to commercialization.
The University Affiliated Startup (UAS) Program formally recognizes and supports startups with meaningful ties to the University of Windsor. Through a renewable one-year affiliation, participating companies gain access to commercialization guidance, funding navigation support, strategic connections, innovation resources, and opportunities to remain engaged with the University's innovation ecosystem.
Whether you are advancing university-developed research, building a technology-based company, or bringing a new innovation to market, the UAS Program is designed to help accelerate your growth while strengthening your connection to the University of Windsor.
Who Can Apply?
The UAS Program is intended for startups with a meaningful connection to the University of Windsor.
Eligible applicants may include:
- Faculty founders
- Student / Alumni founders working on Lab-born innovations
- Startups commercializing University of Windsor research or intellectual property
- Ventures that are highly engaged with the University of Windsor innovation ecosystem
Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to building and growing an innovation-driven venture while maintaining a strong ongoing relationship with the University.
Who We Are Looking For
We are looking for founders who are actively working to transform innovative ideas into sustainable businesses.
Successful applicants typically:
- Are developing an innovative product, service, or technology
- Have identified a market opportunity or customer need
- Are committed to creating and advancing their venture over the coming year
- Are formalized (incorporated and / or registered) or are expected to formalize in the very near future
- Value mentorship, advice, and strategic connections
- Are interested in contributing to the University of Windsor innovation community
Startups do not need to be fully developed or investment-ready but must be on track for commercialization. We are seeking founders with potential, commitment, and a willingness to engage.
How the Program Works
Apply
Email the Office of Innovation, Partnerships, and Entrepreneurship at Fusion@uwindsor.ca with the subject, “UAS Application” and describe your startup, its connection to the University of Windsor, and your commercialization objectives. Do NOT share any proprietary details about your invention or disclose any intellectual property details at this time.
Review
Applications are reviewed to assess eligibility, alignment with program objectives, and readiness for affiliation.
Onboarding
Accepted companies enter into a one-year affiliation agreement and work with the Office of Innovation, Partnerships and Entrepreneurship to establish annual milestones.
Grow
Access commercialization support, strategic guidance, networking opportunities, funding navigation, and university innovation resources.
Review and Renew
At the end of the affiliation period, startups participate in an annual review to discuss progress, future goals, and affiliation renewal opportunities.
Benefits of UAS Affiliation
Official University Affiliation
Receive formal recognition as a University Affiliated Startup and strengthen your credibility with customers, investors, partners, and stakeholders.
Commercialization Support
Access guidance related to:
- Market validation
- Business model development
- Commercialization planning
- Venture growth strategy
- Strategic partnerships
Intellectual Property Guidance
Receive support related to intellectual property and commercialization pathways, including patent strategy, licensing discussions, and innovation management.
Funding Navigation
Identify and pursue funding opportunities through provincial, federal, and innovation-focused programs with support from university commercialization professionals.
Innovation Ecosystem Access
Build connections with researchers, industry partners, mentors, entrepreneurs, investors, and community organizations.
Access to University Resources
Eligible startups may have opportunities to access innovation facilities, incubation spaces, laboratories, equipment, and related resources, subject to availability and applicable policies.
Milestone-Based Growth
Each affiliated startup establishes annual objectives and milestones in collaboration with the University.
Milestones may include:
- Customer discovery activities
- Product development
- Prototype validation
- Regulatory planning
- Partnership development
- Revenue generation
- Investment readiness
- Team growth
These objectives help ensure that startups receive support aligned with their stage of development while providing a framework for annual review and renewal discussions.
Program Commitments
Participants are expected to actively engage with the program and the broader University of Windsor innovation ecosystem.
Affiliated startups are expected to:
- Maintain regular communication with program staff
- Work toward agreed-upon milestones
- Participate in annual review activities
- Submit required progress updates
- Attend the Annual UAS meeting
- Represent the University affiliation appropriately
- Comply with applicable University policies and requirements
- Support the growth of the innovation community where appropriate
Successful affiliation is built on mutual engagement and collaboration.
Additional Reasons to Join
Strengthen Credibility
Formal university affiliation can help demonstrate legitimacy to investors, customers, partners, and funding organizations.
Accelerate Commercialization
Access expertise and resources designed to help founders bring innovations to market more effectively.
Expand Your Network
Develop relationships with mentors, researchers, students, entrepreneurs, funders, and industry leaders.
Stay Connected to UWindsor
Continue building meaningful ties with the University while growing your venture.
Gain Visibility
Participate in events, showcases, success-story features, and ecosystem activities that highlight startup achievements.
Annual Review and Renewal
UAS affiliation is granted for a one-year term.
Toward the end of each affiliation period, startups participate in an annual review process that considers:
- Progress toward established milestones
- Venture development activities
- Engagement with the program
- Future growth plans
Affiliation may be renewed based on mutual agreement and continued alignment with program objectives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the University take equity in my company?
No. Participation in the UAS Program does not require the University to receive equity ownership in your startup.
Do I need to be incorporated?
Eligible startups should be actively pursuing commercialization. Incorporation requirements and business status can be discussed during the application process.
How long does affiliation last?
Affiliation is granted for a one-year term and may be renewed following an annual review.
Can alumni apply?
Yes. Alumni with a meaningful connection to the University of Windsor innovation ecosystem may be eligible.
Does affiliation mean the University endorses my company?
No. Affiliation recognizes your startup's relationship with the University but does not constitute endorsement of specific products, services, or business activities.
Can affiliation be revoked?
Affiliation may be terminated when program requirements, affiliation agreements, or applicable policies are not met.
Contact
For questions regarding eligibility, affiliation, or the application process, please contact us at: