As the founder of Handy.AI, one of the first Ukrainian startups to move to Canada after the war began, I was on a mission to find the fastest and most direct way to integrate and grow in this market. We explored multiple accelerators, tested different programs, and learned from both successes and mistakes. Now, we can share our insights to help other founders navigate this journey faster and more effectively.
Now, as we officially graduate from DMZ and join the alumni network, I want to share my experience. Many founders ask me about accelerators—which ones are worth it, how they differ, and what to expect. Having gone through this process ourselves, I’m happy to help by recommending one of the most valuable programs for startups scaling in Canada: DMZ.
10 Reasons Why I Strongly Recommend DMZ
✔️ 1. A structured, hands-on accelerator that truly integrates you into the North American ecosystem.
DMZ is more than just a startup program—it’s a full business immersion that helps you navigate the legal, financial, and operational aspects of scaling in Canada.
✔️ 2. Sales and growth strategies tailored to your startup with an 18-month runway.
Unlike many accelerators that last just a few months, DMZ’s 18-month program gives you enough time to fully integrate into the ecosystem, refine your positioning, and start seeing tangible results. For Handy.AI, this was critical in building the right sales, marketing, and partnership strategies in a new market.
✔️ 3. A space that feels like home.
You get fixed desks, recording studios, and meeting spaces—all designed to make running a startup seamless. But beyond that, it's about the atmosphere. Over coffee with fellow founders, I often found myself reminded of the meetings in UNIT.City in Kyiv—those serendipitous conversations that spark real ideas. And that’s exactly what I had missed.
✔️ 4. A premium venue for hosting your own events.
Our UA Tech Canada events were held at Toronto Metropolitan University, a top-tier space provided through DMZ. Plus, you can host your own events at DMZ or become part of their community gatherings.
✔️ 5. Access to pitch competitions and major conferences.
DMZ doesn’t just give you entry—it actively connects you to leading startup events and funding opportunities.
✔️ 6. Connections with top-tier journalists and media outlets.
Building awareness is critical for startups, and DMZ provides opportunities to engage with leading media and PR professionals.
✔️ 7. Support in securing grants and attracting investment.
Through DMZ, we gained valuable insights, mentorship, and direct connections to investors—key for any startup looking to raise capital.
✔️ 8. An incredible community where you truly feel among your people.
The DMZ team is always there for you, no matter how complex your questions are. Their support goes beyond just mentorship—it’s real, hands-on help.
✔️ 9. A gateway to all major startup and business opportunities in Canada.
Through DMZ, you gain privileged access to a vast network of accelerators, partnerships, and exclusive startup opportunities.
✔️ 10. And, of course, the best lunches you can get in an accelerator!
Yes, it may sound funny, but when you’re working 24/7, a great meal really makes a difference.
Final Thoughts
Looking back, DMZ played a key role in our ability to not just survive but thrive in a new market. If you’re considering expanding to North America, I highly recommend this program.
📌 Applications for DMZ’s Spring 2025 Incubator are now open!
Apply here
📅 Deadline: February 25.
I’m always happy to share my insights on accelerators, their specifics, and the opportunities they provide—so if you have questions, feel free to reach out! info@uatech.today
Iryna Andriushchenko
Iryna Andriushchenko is the editor of Women in Tech section for uatech.today. She is a founder of Handy.ai, actively contributes to initiatives promoting innovation and entrepreneurship. She is serving as a mentor for accelerator programs for female founders. Iryna has earned accolades in both Ukraine and Canada, including being named among the Top 25 Ukrainian Women Leaders for her contributions to technology and innovation. She has also co-authored research like "From Ukraine to Canada: Cultivating Sustainable Success with AI-Powered Digital Solutions" and "Real Talk: How Generative AI Could Close Canada’s Productivity Gap," emphasizing the transformative potential of AI.
