Apply to the CDL program
For founders developing solutions that utilize artificial intelligence as the foundation for scientific discovery.
We are looking for founders developing AI systems that generate hypotheses, simulate experiments, optimize design processes, or autonomously interact with and learn from complex environments – such as in lab automation, material development, or robotic control.
CDL startups work with 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. Learn more about the CDL Program.
Who Should Apply?
Visionary founders of early-stage companies (pre-seed or seed stage) applying AI to transform scientific discovery.
Example Innovation Areas
- Experiment Simulation (Virtual models to accelerate experimentation)
- Autonomous Lab Systems (Self-directed platforms for lab automation)
- Robot Control Systems (AI for real-world robot control, enabling dexterity and adaptive behavior (e.g., PID controllers, open-loop and reactive control)
- Human-Machine Interfaces (Agents that learn from real-world interaction and execute with autonomy in labs, factories, and field environments)
The list above is not exhaustive. Contact cdl-toronto@creativedestructionlab.com to discuss the program and your venture with someone from the AI 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 Toronto to help founders set objectives over the program’s nine-month duration.
Companies accepted to the CDL Artificial Intelligence Stream benefit from close interactions with entrepreneurs who have built, scaled, and successfully exited deep technology companies, as well as world-leading scientists and economists focused on advancing the fields of artificial intelligence and machine learning. These experts meet with companies periodically to evaluate their technologies, suggest improvements, and to explore formal advising engagements.
“CDL was a six week forcing-function in the early days that obliged us to crystalize our product offering and go-to-market strategy. Thereafter, it blossomed into an intensive blend of piercing critiques, fruitful networking and invaluable mentorship. A number of CDL fellows eventually participated in our angel round, and the program was key in introducing us to our institutional co-leads as well…I want to thank CDL for challenging us to think big and for forcing us to get our act together.”
Sheldon Fernandez
CEO, Darwin AI | CDL-Toronto 2018/19
