Ignite Fund

Fuel your startup with up to $1,500 this semester.

The Ignite Fund supports Memorial University student entrepreneurs working independently on innovative ideas. Whether you're prototyping, validating, or preparing to launch — this funding can help you take the next big step. 

 

How it Works 

Funding Amount: Request up to $1,500 per semester 

Rolling Applications: Apply anytime. MCE will respond within 2 weeks. Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis and will close once all funding has been awarded for the semester.

Eligibility

  • You are a current Memorial student, or your team is primarily comprised of Memorial students. Students from any Memorial campus or faculty are eligible. 
  • Non-students (e.g., CNA students) may participate as team members, provided the team is led and mostly comprised of Memorial students. 
  • If incorporated, Memorial students must own at least 50% of the company. 
  • You have not received more than $20,000 in external funding (government or private). Personal or family contributions are allowed. 
  • You (or a teammate) have met with an MCE Start-up Coach (required before applying). 
  • You are located in Newfoundland and Labrador or your startup is incorporated in the province. 
  • You are not currently enrolled in paid MCE programs (e.g., LearnLaunch, SiR). 
  • You are not a SiR graduate or Mel Woodward Cup winner or runner-up. 
  • Preference is given to first-time applicants. 

Note: Final eligibility is at the sole discretion of the Memorial Centre for Entrepreneurship. 

 

Evaluation Criteria 

Applications will be assessed based on: 

  • The Problem: How clearly have you identified and validated a real customer problem? 
  • The Team: Why are you the right person/team to solve this? 
  • Use of Funds: How will the funds accelerate your business over the next 3–6 months? 

 

Application Requirements 

Please be prepared to outline: 

  1. Business Overview 
    • Problem Statement 
    • Value Proposition 
    • Market Size 
    • Ideal Customer Profile 
    • Relevant Founder/Team Experience 
  2. Intended Use of Funds 
    • What will the funding support? (e.g., prototyping, software, marketing, research) 
    • Include an itemized list of anticipated expenses.
  3. Anticipated Outcomes (3–6 months) 
    • What progress will this funding enable?

Questions? Contact us at mceprograms@mun.ca

 

Ready to Apply?

Apply

FAQ

1. What does it mean to be a "Memorial student"?

To be considered a Memorial student, you must meet one of the following:

  • Undergraduate: Completed at least 18 credit hours in the last 2 years, with at least 3 credit hours in one of the past two semesters (or current semester).
  • Graduate: Completed at least 3 credit hours in one of the past two semesters (or current semester). 
  • Faculty of Medicine: Currently enrolled as a learner.
  • Recent Graduates: Must have taken at least 3 credit hours since graduation.

2. What kinds of ideas are eligible?

Your idea must involve some form of innovation—a novel solution, process, or approach that differentiates it from current competitors. The idea should also have potential beyond Newfoundland and Labrador. Both tech and non-tech ideas are welcome. 

3. Can I apply if I’ve participated in other MCE programs or won previous competitions?

  • You cannot apply with the same idea if you’ve: 
    • Won the Mel Woodward Cup 
    • Completed the Student-in-Residence (SiR) or Entrepreneurial Work Term (EWT/EI)
    • Already received Ignite Funding 
  • However, you can apply with a new idea or different team.
  • Mel Woodward Cup finalists (non-winners) may reapply with the same idea if they did not receive a prize of $2,000 or more. 

4. Can individuals apply, or do I need a team?

Absolutely! You can apply as an individual. That said, forming a team with complementary skills is often beneficial.

5. How can I maximize my chances of receiving funding?

  • Clearly define the problem and explain how you validated it. 
  • Show how your solution is innovative and meets a real need.
  • Use plain language—avoid jargon. 
  • Provide a specific, thoughtful plan for how you’ll use the funds. 
  • Articulate achievable goals for the next 3–6 months.
  • Demonstrate commitment—have you already made progress or invested effort?

6. I have an idea, but I don’t know where to start. Can you help?

Definitely! You can: 

  • Book a 1-on-1 coaching session with an MCE Start-up Coach
  • Attend our workshops to learn foundational skills around ideation, prototyping, and validation
  • Explore our Start-up Guide to help you take your first step

7. Can I apply again next semester if I'm not successful?

Yes! If you’re not selected this semester, you are welcome to reapply in a future semester—especially if you’ve made progress in the meantime.