Industry INSIGHT

CONtact is back: CCA mentorship program is a gateway for emerging innovators in construction

Are you an emerging innovator with a game-changing product or service for the construction industry?

The Canadian Construction Association’s (CCA) CONtact mentorship program is here to help you take the next step. This unique initiative connects the next generation of entrepreneurs and innovators with industry leaders, offering the guidance and support needed to bring their visionary ideas to life.

Why should you apply?

The CONtact program is more than just mentorship – it’s a platform to refine, adapt, and position your solution for real-world industry adoption. Mentees gain access to expert guidance from senior industry professionals who will provide targeted feedback on everything from pricing and feasibility to distribution and market positioning.

• Learn from seasoned mentors with deep industry knowledge.
• Build lasting connections with construction leaders.
• Receive honest, practical insight to shape your offering.
• Acquire essential skills to navigate commercialization and growth.

Up to five mentees will be selected to present their innovations at the 2026 CCA Annual Conference in San Diego, California, in a face-to-face mentorship meeting and network with senior executives from across the industry.

Eligible travel and accommodation expenses will be covered by CONtact.

Who can apply?

The CONtact mentorship program is open to Canadian entrepreneurs and innovators who are ready to take their construction-focused solutions to the next level. To qualify as a mentee, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Offer an innovative solution relevant to the Canadian construction sector.
• Operate a small or medium-sized, profit-oriented, incorporated Canadian business with 500 or fewer full-time equivalent employees.
• Be actively pursuing growth through new or improved, technology-driven products or services.
• Have a product or service at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 3 or higher.
• Be a client of the National Research Council’s Industrial Research Assistance Program. (NRC-IRAP) or be willing to become one if selected.

Key dates to remember

• August 18, 2025: Application portal opens
• September 22, 2025: Application deadline
• November 2025: Selected mentees announced
• November 2025 through to February 2026: Virtual mentorship sessions take place
• March 2026: In-person CONtact Innovator’s Pitch presentation at the CCA Annual Conference
• April 2026: Winner of CONtact Innovator’s Pitch session promoted in CCA blog

Since its inception, nearly 40 innovators have participated in CONtact, with several of their solutions already being adopted in real-world projects. This is your chance to be next.

Interested in becoming a mentor?

The success of the CONtact mentorship program lies in its network of dedicated mentors from some of Canada’s most respected construction firms. If you’re a senior industry leader with a passion for innovation and a desire to give back, your experience could help guide the next generation of construction disruptors.

Who we’re looking for?

We’re seeking mentors who meet the following criteria:

• Currently employed in a Canadian construction company
• 5+ years of relevant industry experience
• Hold a senior leadership position (senior manager or higher)
• Possess excellent communication skills and a collaborative mindset
• Have a deep understanding of emerging trends and innovation in construction

Mentors will be matched with mentees whose innovations align with their areas of expertise.

Visit CCA’s website to learn more!