Empowering Startups and Communities to Grow Together
The Merge Program - Resources for Startups
The goal of the MERGE Program is to intertwine community well-being with business prosperity, the MERGE Program aims to foster resilient local economies through targeted investments in community infrastructure, education, and empowerment.
MERGE Program’s mission is to create a thriving business ecosystem that supports both community and business growth.
Request For Proposals (RFP) are NOW OPEN
Please note: all applicants selected will be required to attend the MERGE Program in person sessions
RFP 001: Enhancing Accessible and Sustainable Transportation
Municipality: Grand Lake
Submission Deadline: February 21, 2025
Grand Lake seeks innovative solutions to improve accessible and sustainable transportation for residents without personal vehicles. This initiative addresses barriers for seniors, low-income families, and individuals with limited mobility, focusing on eco-friendly and community-centered solutions.
Highlights:
Develop a community-based transportation network with a reliable schedule
Prioritize eco-friendly options and innovative solutions
Budget: Up to $25,000
Help Grand Lake improve connectivity, access essential services, and foster sustainability.
RFP 002: Enhancing Land Identification for Strategic Growth
Municipality: Hanwell & Central York
Submission Deadline: February 21, 2025
Hanwell and Central York are looking for innovative tools to streamline the process of identifying suitable land for projects like business spaces, affordable housing, and recreational facilities.
Highlights:
Develop a platform for real-time access to land data
Improve decision-making for strategic growth projects
Budget: Up to $25,000
Your solution could shape the future of land management in these communities.
RFP 003: Enhancing Recreational and Tourism Opportunities
Municipality: Arcadia
Submission Deadline: February 21, 2025
Arcadia seeks a development plan to maximize the tourism potential of its Harts Lake properties. The project focuses on eco-tourism, inclusive water sports, and creating a vibrant recreational destination.
Highlights:
Design facilities like parking, picnic areas, washrooms, and docks
Integrate environmental stewardship and accessibility
Budget: Up to $25,000
Contribute to Arcadia’s vision of becoming a regional recreational hub.
RFP 004: Ensuring Sustainable Water Access for Community Growth
Municipality: Arcadia & Hanwell
Submission Deadline: February 21, 2025
Arcadia and Hanwell are seeking innovative solutions for sustainable water resource management to support their growing populations and development needs.
Highlights:
Implement scalable and eco-friendly water management solutions
Protect natural resources while accommodating growth
Budget: Up to $25,000
Be part of a project that ensures long-term water sustainability for these communities.
RFP TIMELINES
Be sure to click on the + sign next to each item to learn more details. The deadlines are firm.
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RFP Opens – January 17, 2025
Applications for the MERGE Program RFP officially open. Startups are invited to submit their innovative solutions to address municipal challenges.
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All RFP responses must be submitted by 12:00 PM (noon) on February 21 to be considered.
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Our evaluation committee will review all submitted proposals to identify the most promising solutions.
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Selected startups will be notified and invited to pitch their solutions to the evaluation committee.
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Shortlisted startups will present their proposed solutions in person during this period.
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Final selections will be announced, and successful startups will move forward with the MERGE Program.