Industry-Focused Centre of Excellence Taking On Canada’s Biggest Problem
The Centre for Housing Innovation (CHI) is a 6-month accelerator fast-tracking the future of housing by helping startups move from idea to real-world impact. CHI provides entrepreneurs with expert training, hands-on mentorship, investor access, legal support, and more than $1M in perks — backed by national partners and a trusted network that shortens the path from prototype to deployment.
How CHI Turns Innovation into Housing
Other innovation hubs focus on ideas. CHI focuses on results.
CHI connects startups with the partners who matter — developers, manufacturers, policymakers, and investors — so new solutions don’t get stuck in “pilot purgatory.” CHI turns prototypes into projects and projects into scalable models.
The impact:
Modular and factory-built housing adopted faster
Shorter delivery timelines and reduced risk
Lower cost per unit and improved affordability
Proven, repeatable innovation playbooks for Canada
CHI accelerates what matters most: getting more homes built.
Who should apply?
Here are some factors we look for in housing accelerator applicants:
Innovative solution • Tackles housing issues or improves industry productivity.
Stage of growth • Gaining traction and ready to scale in Canada.
Team structure • Full-time founder and coachable leadership team.
Inclusive focus • Special consideration for rural, Indigenous and academic-led startups.
Venture-backable • Positioned for funding in a high-growth market.
Commitment • Available 5-6 hours/month to reap program benefits.
Location • DMZ accepts global founders. Travel required for in-person pitch events.
