Welcome to Canada Startup Association™

Canada Startup Association™ (CSA) is a thriving community where startups, small businesses, and entrepreneurs come together to drive collaboration and innovation. Through peer-to-peer learning, expert-led networking events, and access to critical resources, CSA cultivates an environment where shared knowledge and mutual support drive progress and success. These efforts strengthen Canada’s position as a global leader in entrepreneurship and innovation. At CSA , we believe that breaking barriers and building bridges creates limitless opportunities for equity-deserving entrepreneurs and their communities. By fostering inclusivity, collaboration, and growth, we empower Canadian startups to achieve their full potential and contribute to the broader economic landscape. Join us and be part of the movement shaping the future of Canadian entrepreneurship while showcasing the transformative power of innovation on a global scale.

About Us

Canada Startup Association™ (CSA) is a dynamic hub for startups, small businesses, and entrepreneurs across the country. Through peer-to-peer learning, expert-led events, and access to vital resources, CSA fosters a collaborative ecosystem that drives innovation and growth. Committed to inclusivity and equity, CSA empowers diverse entrepreneurs to thrive and contribute to Canada’s global leadership in innovation. Join the movement transforming Canadian entrepreneurship.

The Founders

Tehmina A Chaudhry

Tehmina A. Chaudhry is a social impact entrepreneur, startup advisor, and ecosystem builder with over 20 years of entrepreneurial experience across regions such as South Asia, Australia, the Middle East, and Africa. As the Founder and President of the Canada Startup Association™, she champions inclusive innovation and supports early-stage founders through mentorship, networking, advocacy, and strategic partnerships. Tehmina A. Chaudhry has contributed to bridging the gaps that exist in the Canadian startup ecosystem by bringing stakeholders together around a joint, growth-focused advocacy agenda. She is passionate about reducing entry barriers for women founders, newcomer entrepreneurs, and underserved communities, helping make Canada’s startup landscape more accessible, equitable, and globally connected.

Hammad Siddiqui

Hammad Siddiqui, Executive Director, brings over 36 years of experience working with startups, entrepreneurs, and business associations in countries ranging from Turkey to Papua New Guinea. He is a certified non-profit executive from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Institute for Organization Management in Washington, D.C. Hammad has been mentoring startups and founders for many years….read more

Our Eco System of Partners, Supporters & Startups

CSA Insights

Land Acknowledgment

We respectfully acknowledge that Mississauga, where we gather and work, is situated on the Treaty Lands and Territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, as well as the Mississauga and Chippewa Nations, as recognized by the Williams Treaties. We also recognize that this land is part of the traditional territories of the Haudenosaunee and the Huron-Wendat peoples. We honor and express our deepest gratitude to the original caretakers of this land, acknowledging their significant historical and ongoing contributions. May we all move forward with respect and mindfulness, committed to reconciliation and a deeper appreciation of the land we inhabit together. The Canada Startup Association™ (CSA) is steadfastly committed to respecting and uplifting Indigenous Peoples and First Nation enterprises across Canada. We aim to foster inclusivity and mutual growth by embedding Indigenous perspectives and wisdom into our entrepreneurial ecosystem. Together, we strive to co-create a future where every voice—especially those of First Nations—is heard, respected, and valued.

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