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 006: Identifying Water Sources

Submit your questions by March 28, 2025, here.

Municipalities: Arcadia & Hanwell

Submission Deadline: April 11, 2025, at noon

Arcadia and Hanwell seek innovative approaches to identify and secure reliable water sources for their communities. This initiative addresses water scarcity concerns, ensuring long-term sustainability and resilience for residents and businesses.

Highlights:

Assess and map potential water sources within municipal boundaries
Develop cost-effective and sustainable solutions for water access
Address regulatory and environmental considerations
Budget: Up to $25,000

Support Arcadia & Hanwell in securing sustainable water sources to meet future community needs.

RFP 005: Enhancing Blue Trail-Based Economic Development and Connectivity

Submit your questions by March 28, 2025, here.

Municipality: Capital Region Service Commission

Submission Deadline: April 11, 2025, at noon

Capital Region Service Commission is seeking innovative solutions to enhance economic development and connectivity through blue trails. This initiative aims to leverage waterways as a driver for tourism, recreation, and local business growth while improving accessibility and community engagement.

Highlights:

Develop strategies to increase tourism and local business activity along blue trails
Improve infrastructure and accessibility to water-based recreation
Foster environmental sustainability and community partnerships
Budget: Up to $25,000

Help the Capital Region Service Commission strengthen its blue trail network, boost local economic activity, and enhance regional connectivity.

DOWNLOAD RFP HERE

RFP TIMELINES

Be sure to click on the + sign next to each item to learn more details. The deadlines are firm.

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.
All RFP responses must be submitted by 12:00 PM (noon) on February 21 to be considered.
Our evaluation committee will review all submitted proposals to identify the most promising solutions.
Selected startups will be notified and invited to pitch their solutions to the evaluation committee.
Shortlisted startups will present their proposed solutions in person during this period.
Final selections will be announced, and successful startups will move forward with the MERGE Program.
Applications for the MERGE Program new RFP officially open. Startups are invited to submit their innovative solutions to address municipal challenges.
All RFP responses must be submitted by 12:00 PM (noon) on April 11 to be considered.

THANK YOU FOR APPLYING!

The following RFPs have now been closed:

RFP 001: Enhancing Accessible and Sustainable Transportation

Municipality: Grand Lake

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

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

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

Arcadia and Hanwell are seeking innovative solutions for sustainable water resource management to support their growing populations and development needs.

Highlights: