Startup investors in Canada and the US
City-by-city guides to the angel networks, seed funds and startup programs that take applications from founders, what each publishes about itself, and how to reach it.
What does this guide cover?
This guide lists organizations that take applications from founders in 10 Canadian and 25 US metro areas: angel networks, seed funds, accelerators and public programs. For each one it gives what the organization publishes about itself (stage, cheque size, criteria, fees) and how to apply. It does not rank them or say which will invest.
What is the difference between an angel network, a seed fund and a program?
An angel network is a group of accredited investors who hear pitches together but each decide alone whether to invest. A seed fund invests from one pool of money through one decision and may lead the round. A program gives support and sometimes invests or connects founders with investors. Public programs, such as state and provincial funds, often add conditions like staying in the region or matching their money with private capital.
| Type | Who decides | What you get | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Angel network | Each member, individually | Several cheques from members who choose to invest | Band of Angels |
| Seed fund | The fund, once | One cheque; some funds lead the round | Underscore VC |
| Program with investment | The program | Support plus a set investment | Y Combinator |
| Public fund or grant | A public body or its partner | Capital with conditions, such as location or a match | InvestTN |
Startup investors in Canada
- Startup investors in Canada: national funds, the difference between investor types, and all 10 Canadian city guides.
Startup investors in the US
- Startup investors in the US: accelerators and funds that take applications nationally, and all 25 US city guides.
Before you approach anyone
This guide covers who to approach. For how to run the raise, see how to raise a seed round.
Frequently asked questions
Which cities does this guide cover?
Ten in Canada (Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Waterloo Region, Ottawa, Calgary, Edmonton, Halifax, Winnipeg and Quebec City) and 25 US metro areas, listed on the USA page.
Does meeting an investor's criteria mean it will invest?
No. It means you can apply. Each organization makes its own decision.
Do angel networks invest as a group?
Usually not. The network screens companies and runs the meetings, and each member decides alone whether to invest.
How current is the information?
Every organization was checked on its own website in October 2026. Terms and dates change, so confirm on the organization's site before you apply.