Fintech Startups to Compete in July at Montreal’s Startupfest for $100K Prize

Digital Commerce Group this week announced a collaborative initiative targeting promising fintech startups in Canada.

DCG revealed that it is partnering with Apaylo, Outlier Compliance, and Osler to offer a non-dilutive $100,000 grant comprised of $95,000 cash funding and an “Osler Startup Package” valued at $5,000.

“As the Canadian fintech ecosystem evolves, it is producing incredibly innovative founders and ideas,” believes Pamela Draper, who serves as President of Digital Commerce Payments.

“Many of these businesses are facing challenges associated with accessing capital, visibility, and having strategic connections needed to flourish,” says Draper.

Digital Commerce, which specializes in online payments-related API technology to facilitate payments-as-a-service, created the grant in 2025.

The Fintech Grant—whose inaugural winner was Ready Plan Go—considers private Canadian fintechs operating around the seed stage with a minimum viable product and market traction.

“This grant isn’t just about providing those resources and opportunities through one-time funding,” Draper explains. “It’s about nurturing the long-term growth of Canada’s fintech landscape through its most promising talent and advancements.”

“We hope this grant demonstrates how the industry can support and contribute to its future through collaborative initiatives and encourage other organizations to become involved,” she stated.

The inaugural winner of DCG’s Fintech Grant was Ready Plan Go.

This year, the organization is once again connecting the grant to Startupfest in July.

Startupfest is a three-day, founder-focused festival that is being held this year in Montréal from July 8th through 10th.

Since 2011, the annual affair has connected startups, investors, and leaders from around the world.

Applications for DCG’s grant are being accepted until June 12, with a shortlist of ten finalists to be announced on June 26.

Those fintechs will participate in the first round of pitching during Startupfest on July 8.

Next, the top five candidates will meet with judges on July 9.

And, finally, a winner will be announced during a closing ceremony on July 10.

Digital Commerce Group was established in Alberta in 2007.