Compute

Apply to the CDL program

For founders who seek to commercialize new computing hardware and/or software technologies that will impact humankind in the same ways the printing press, the personal computer, and the internet did.

In 2012, Creative Destruction Lab launched its program with a general technology focus that eventually became known as the CDL Prime Stream. CDL Prime has since operated from CDL-Toronto, CDL-Vancouver, CDL-Rockies, and CDL-Atlantic. In 2022, the Prime stream at CDL-Vancouver is transitioning to CDL Compute.

The Compute Stream at CDL-Vancouver, interdisciplinary by design, will feature both hardware and/or software solutions changing how and where the computing happens.

CDL startups work with these mentors to sharpen objectives, prioritize time and resources, raise capital, and engage with experts working on the frontiers of research.

The startups attend five in-person objective-setting sessions between October and June. CDL is a non-profit organization. There are no fees for participation and CDL does not take any equity. Learn more about the CDL program.

 CDL-Vancouver Prime Alumni Companies ▶︎

Who Should Apply?

The Compute Stream is suited to visionary founders working in the fields of advanced computing systems, data storage and transfer, spatial computing, and web3. This stream is tailored towards early-stage companies (early venture or growth) or even projects (pre-incorporation); however, startups at all levels of maturity will be considered.

Example Innovation Areas

• Advanced computing, Specialized components (ASIC/FPGA/RISC-V)
• 5G/Connectivity
• Cloud Computing and Infrastructure
• Decentralization (Web3, Defi, Blockchain)
• AR/VR/MR/meta
• Spatial Compute

The list above is not exhaustive. Contact cdl-vancouver_ventures@creativedestructionlab.com to discuss the program and your venture with someone from the Compute Stream.

Our Mentors

CDL mentors include accomplished entrepreneurs, experienced operators, active angel and venture investors, world-leading scientists, engineers, and economists. Mentors meet every eight weeks in Vancouver or virtually to help founders set objectives over the program’s nine-month duration.

Companies accepted to the CDL Compute Stream benefit from advice from exit entrepreneurs, industry executives, and academics who are world-leading experts in the field of computing and applications. These experts meet with companies periodically to evaluate their technologies, suggest improvements, and to explore formal advising engagements.

See all CDL-Vancouver Compute mentors ▶︎

For more information or to schedule an introduction meeting with the CDL team, email cdl-vancouver_ventures@creativedestructionlab.com.

Apply to the CDL program