SASKATOON — The business incubator Cultivator, powered by Conexus, is seeking the next cohort of talented agtech founders for the agtech accelerator. Applications are now open for Cohort 5 of the program, which brings together agriculture and technology to fuel the growth of Canadian startups developing solutions for global challenges.
The agtech accelerator is built on a collaborative ecosystem of founders, farmers, researchers and industry partners working together to validate innovations and scale new technologies, according to a media release. Participants selected for the fifth cohort will enter an intensive three-month program combining virtual delivery with in-person experiences designed to accelerate commercial readiness. Cohort 5 will culminate at Ag in Motion 2026, Western Canada’s largest outdoor farm expo. There, founders will showcase their innovations, connect with producers and pitch to investors seeking the next breakthrough in agricultural technology.
Cultivator director Laura Mock says the accelerator’s growing national and international profile continues to elevate both participating startups and the Prairie agtech ecosystem.
“The agtech accelerator is a leading Canadian agtech program with increasing global recognition. Its strength lies in bringing founders, farmers and partners together to test technology at scale and prepare it for commercial adoption. Investors know this program produces startups ready for real-world impact. The accelerator generates value beyond the cohort itself. These immersive connections within Canada’s agricultural sector fuel innovation for founders, create new opportunities for producers, strengthen our agtech ecosystem and contribute to economic growth,” said Mock.
Founders accepted into the program gain unparalleled access to capital, mentorship and industry expertise. Over the three months, Canadian and UK startups will participate in workshops, investor introductions, expert-led sessions and exclusive engagement opportunities with producers and industry leaders.
Past participants say this combination of programming and connection drives transformational growth, with Cohort 4 company AgScouter co-founder Jill Sharko saying that the accelerator helped elevate both strategy and execution.
“The agtech accelerator not only connected me with incredible mentors and valuable contacts in the Saskatchewan agtech community, but it also gave me the tools and knowledge to make a real impact on our business,” said Sharko.
The accelerator’s first four cohorts have already delivered substantial results. To date, Cultivator has supported 62 agtech companies that have collectively raised $161.9 million in private capital, generated $118.5 million in revenue, received $76.4 million in public funding and created 316 new jobs across Canada. With demand for innovative agricultural solutions growing worldwide, Cultivator is calling on the next generation of founders to step forward. Applications for the 2026 cohort are open now until Jan. 9, 2026. Entrepreneurs ready to accelerate their agtech innovation can apply today to join Cohort 5 of the agtech accelerator.
