An AI-powered reading platform that boosts literacy and non-invasive cancer detection sensors for earlier diagnosis are but two of the innovations from tech companies accepted into the latest edition of the Innovation Cluster’s LevelUP business accelerator program.
On Monday (August 11), the Peterborough-based organization announced the roster of 21 tech companies taking part in the fall 2025 cohort of the program for startup businesses that are ready to scale.
“The most exciting thing about this cohort is the quality of the companies,” Innovation Cluster board vice-chair Christine Crandell told kawarthaNOW. “Equally interesting is that the majority of the companies are from across the region and the GTA, not just Peterborough and the Kawarthas. They heard about the accelerator program through word of mouth.”
Free for all who are selected to participate, LevelUP is open to Ontario-based growth-stage companies in the hard and soft technology sectors whose products have reached the minimum viable product (MVP) stage and beyond.
LevelUP kicks off on Wednesday (August 13) with a 12-week intensive program with expert-led support in branding, revenue models, product development, customer acquisition, go-to-market strategy, and investment readiness.
It wraps up with a pitch competition on October 30 sponsored by Matrix Venture Studio, LaunchPath, Innovation Venture Farm Inc., and ANC, where eight finalists competing for a $10,000 cash prize will be judged by a panel of four experienced angel investors.
“The momentum behind LevelUP continues to grow with each cohort,” said Innovation Cluster program lead Zahra Shafiei in a media release. “Each cohort brings together innovative thinkers who are ready to scale, and we’re eager to support their development through practical strategy, expert mentorship, and a strong peer network.
The 21 tech companies participating in the fall cohort of LevelUP, along with descriptions of their MVPs, are listed below.
- Abroadin – AI-powered platform that streamlines international university applications, combining mentorship and automation for programs, applications, and visas.
- Ad Suite AI – Digital marketing software for small businesses with free ad tools, AI campaign automation, and done-for-you execution.
- Artitent Atelier Inc. – Community-driven platform for local and amateur artists to showcase and sell work, collaborate, and engage with studios and art events.
- Beyond Role Plays – AI-powered soft skills training platform using lifelike simulations and real-time feedback for leadership development.
- BiosphereAI – AI-powered biodiversity mapping tool using satellite, drone, and ecological data to locate species globally.
- Cura Connect Inc. – Platform to find and transition to high-quality, private home care services.
- DynaGaunt – Smart, wearable app that monitors wrist movements to detect early signs of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and provide prevention exercises.
- elerGreen Industry Corporation – Patented electrolyzers converting waste and pollutants into valuable products using renewable electricity.
- Enabled Talent – AI-powered inclusive hiring platform connecting businesses with skilled individuals with disabilities via anonymized profiles and accessibility tools.
- English Islands – AI-powered reading platform that boosts literacy by giving real-time feedback as students read aloud and tracking performance gains.
- FN Nano Canada Inc. – Titanium oxide-based nanocoatings that purify air, protect surfaces, and reduce pollutants through a UV-activated process.
- Grainguru Technologies Inc. – Autonomous AI and IoT robotic system for grain storage monitoring to prevent spoilage and boost farm profitability.
- GreenFuel 2.0 – AI-powered system that converts organic waste into clean biofuel using smart sorting, fermentation monitoring, and machine learning.
- Hadiware Inc. – AI-powered routing platform that optimizes delivery operations with real-time monitoring and advanced analytics.
- Jessy Salomi – Social discovery app connecting immigrants, travellers, and locals through shared interests, group meetups, and exploration.
- LulAI Inc. – Retail AI platform for deploying intelligent brand-controlled agents across channels to improve customer service, sales, and engagement.
- Maplexcellence Inc. – SaaS energy and carbon management platform helping organizations cut costs and reduce their carbon footprint.
- One-Tech Innovation – A biotechnology company developing highly sensitive, non-invasive cancer detection sensors for earlier diagnosis.
- Platform Streamlining Estate Planning – Legal platform streamlining estate planning, corporate securities, and mutual funds with expert guidance.
- Tokentir Inc. – Blockchain-powered marketplace enabling anyone to invest in tokenized U.S. real estate starting at $50, offering secure and transparent access.
- 17082606 Canada Corporation – AI search engine unifying web content, personal files, and business apps for accurate, transparent answers.
The Innovation Cluster is a non-profit business accelerator supporting entrepreneurs in agriculture technology, clean technology, health and medical technology, nuclear technology, and digital information technology.
The organization offers co-working and meeting space in downtown Peterborough as a hub for business leaders to collaborate in person and also works virtually with entrepreneurs around the world.
For more information on the LevelUP program, visit innovationcluster.ca/levelup.
