the pitch
Melamoon is about more than funding It is about shared power, collective growth, and building an ecosystem where Black entrepreneurs can lead on their own terms.
$200,000 in non-dilutive cash prizes1st place
$100,000public choice award
$25,0003rd place
$25,0002nd place
$50,000THE phases
Melamoon, created by FACE and powered by Interac, provides capital and training to Canadian-based entrepreneurs growing early-stage businesses across consumer products & services, healthcare, media & entertainment, technology, and AI. Together, we’re helping close the opportunity and wealth gap by reducing barriers to accessing capital and positioning diverse founders to excel uninterrupted.
Our goal is to fund bold ideas and create more equitable access to the resources founders need to grow and thrive.
-
Each city opens a dedicated one-week application window.
Founders apply through one city, creating focused, high-intent cohorts across the country.
-
20 founders will pitch, with 10 advancing as regional finalists.
Each event features a curated pitch format with multiple rooms and judges, designed to surface the strongest ideas in an intimate, high-quality setting.
-
50 founders from across Canada are selected to join the Melamoon cohort.
Participants gain access to visibility, mentorship, and ecosystem connections as they prepare for the final stage.
-
Cohort founders submit additional materials, including detailed decks and business insights.
5 finalists will be selected for the grand finale in Toronto on October 16-17.
-
Location: Steam Whistle Brewery
Date: October 16 to 17Top five finalists pitch live for non-dilutive cash prizes across multiple categories, gaining national visibility and access to capital.
The journey culminates at BLAXPO X Melamoon Toronto.
Business must be at least 51% owned and operated by individuals who identify as Black or of African descent
Founder and business must be based in Canada
Business operating for less than 10 years
Annual revenue under $1,000,000
Eligibility Criteria
Has not raised more than $1,000,000 in dilutive capital
Operating in consumer products and services, healthcare, media and entertainment, technology, or AI
No direct affiliation with large corporations, investment funds, or government entities
Founders and immediate family members cannot be employed by FACE or BLAXPO and/or their affiliates, partners, or sponsors
All eligibility decisions are made at the discretion of FACE
apply now FOR toronto
Applications close on July 18, 2026, at 9:00 PM EDT