Category Archives: Blog

Prime Minister Mark Carney’s recent economic policy announcement marks a pivotal moment for Canada. The strategic shift from a model of “reliance” on specific trade relationships to one of “resilience” against global shocks is a profound and necessary reorientation of the nation’s economic philosophy. This new framework recognizes that in a turbulent world, true economic strength comes from a dynamic, adaptable, and innovative domestic base. And at the heart of this resilience lies Canada’s burgeoning startup ecosystem.

While the new policies offer a generally positive effect on Canadian startups, particularly through increased access to capital via BDC loans and the Strategic Response Fund, a critical piece of the puzzle is missing. To truly transform our economy, the government must move beyond broad strokes and develop a targeted, clear policy that specifically supports underrepresented and immigrant-led startups. This is not just a matter of equity; it’s an economic imperative. These entrepreneurs are not just creating businesses; they are building the future economic engine of Canada.

What This Matters

Funding is one aspect, this policy is focused at unlocking a powerful economic multiplier effect.

• Job Creation and Innovation: Startups are the primary creators of high-value jobs and catalytic innovation, often at a faster pace than traditional industries. They are the crucibles where new talent is forged and where jobs are created for that talent.
• Global Advantage: Immigrant-founded startups, in particular, bring invaluable global networks and a unique understanding of international markets, which can significantly fuel Canada’s export potential and attract foreign direct investment. They are already connected to the very global economies the new policy seeks to navigate with resilience.
• Future-Proofing the Economy: By embedding a startup-focused strategy into its policy, Canada can accelerate its transition toward a knowledge-based, climate-smart economy. This ensures our economy is not just resilient to current shocks but is also prepared for future challenges.

Recommendations for an Inclusive Startup Policy

To make the “resilience” framework a reality for all of Canada’s entrepreneurs, the government should consider the following actions:

• Strategic Response Fund: The government should allocate a dedicated stream within this fund specifically for underrepresented and immigrant-led startups. This ensures that the capital reaches those who can benefit most from it and who often face systemic barriers to traditional funding.
• Government Procurement: The “Buy Canadian” mandate holds immense potential, but its effectiveness depends on reforming cumbersome procurement processes. The government should add a system of “startup-first micro-contracts” and pilot funding streams that make it easier for smaller, newer companies to compete. This would provide a reliable domestic market for innovative products and services.
• Cabinet Portfolio Alignment: The report suggests aligning startup initiatives under the Minister for AI and Digital Innovation. This is a crucial step to ensure that policy is coherent, coordinated, and can respond quickly to the needs of the technology sector.
• Reducing Barriers to Scale: While the policy aims for resilience, we must also address domestic obstacles to growth. The “One Canadian Economy Act” should be used to actively reduce interprovincial trade barriers, enabling startups to seamlessly access a national market and scale their operations.
• Streamlining the Startup Visa Program: The government must address the dire challenges faced by international entrepreneurs under the Startup Visa (SUV) program. The current estimated processing time of 40-48 months is just insane! A backlog of over 44,000 files, potentially leading to an 11+ year waiting period. This paralyzes legitimate businesses, prevents them from bringing in much-needed capital, and stifles job creation. A rapid, transparent review and a dedicated task force are needed to clear this backlog and ensure that talented entrepreneurs can quickly contribute to the Canadian economy.

In essence, by explicitly integrating our most dynamic and diverse entrepreneurs into its industrial playbook, Canada can turn funding shocks into innovation surges. The government has laid the groundwork for a more resilient economy. Now is the time to ensure that all Canadians, especially those who have historically been on the sidelines, are at the forefront of building it.

End Notes:

Canada Startup Association is a not for profit organization that supports underrepresented and immigrant startups in Canada. With our international collaborations, we organize private sector led and privately funded trade delegations to provide our members a direct access to international markets.

An innovation Ecosystem that can become a gateway for Canadian Startups.

In a session hosted by the Canada Startup Association, Abdulmajeed O. Alanazi, Business Development Manager at Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Investment (MISA), unveiled the Kingdom’s thriving innovation and entrepreneurship landscape to an audience of 20 Canadian startups.

The event, held on Alanazi’s maiden visit to Canada, highlighted Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 ambitions and its commitment to fostering global partnerships.

A Vision for Transformation

Alanazi opened his presentation by underscoring Saudi Arabia’s economic momentum as the fastest-growing G20 economy in 2022, with a GDP exceeding SAR 1 trillion. Central to this growth is Vision 2030, a blueprint to diversify the economy beyond oil, with SMEs targeted to contribute 35% of GDP and private sector participation to reach 65%. “The Kingdom is not just a market; it’s a launchpad for regional and global scalability,” Alanazi remarked.

The presentation showcased key sectors ripe for innovation, including transport, healthcare, fintech, and smart cities, with disruptive technologies like AI, biotech, and IoT driving transformation. Alanazi emphasized Saudi Arabia’s strategic geographic location and world-class logistics infrastructure as competitive advantages for startups eyeing MENA expansion.

Ecosystem Support and Incentives

A highlight of the session was MISA’s “Entrepreneur License,” a streamlined digital process offering 100% foreign ownership, no minimum capital requirements, and access to local funding networks. Alanazi also detailed the Premium Residency Program, which grants five-year or permanent residency to entrepreneurs who secure investments of SAR 400,000 or SAR 15 million, respectively, and create jobs.

Canada’s startups representing multiple sectors such as edtech, fintech, healthtech, engineering and transportation etc were particularly intrigued by Saudi Arabia’s robust support infrastructure, including 100+ venture capital firms, 150+ accelerators, and state-backed initiatives like the “Fund of Funds” and CODE Program for digital transformation.

Bridging Canada and Saudi Arabia

Tehmina A. Chaudhry, President of the Canada Startup Association, welcomed Alanazi’s outreach, noting, “Canadian startups are increasingly looking beyond North America, and Saudi Arabia’s ecosystem offers unparalleled opportunities.” The two-hour dialogue explored synergies, with Alanazi inviting Canadian ventures to leverage Saudi Arabia as a hub for GCC and MENA markets.

The event concluded with a networking session, where startups discussed potential collaborations. Alanazi’s visit marks a pivotal step in strengthening ties between the two innovation ecosystems, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s goal to rank among the top 15 global economies by 2030.

In the world of entrepreneurship, there’s one truth most seasoned founders agree on: Startups are not meant to be built alone.

You can have the best idea, an incredible product, and an elite team, but without the right environment, your startup will struggle to thrive. That environment is what we call a startup community, a dynamic network of entrepreneurs, mentors, investors, and support systems that elevate each other.

Whether you’re launching your first product, pivoting during tough times, or scaling rapidly, being part of a startup community can be the difference between failure and success.

What Is a Startup Community?

A startup community isn’t just a group chat or co-working space. It’s a living, breathing ecosystem made up of:

• Founders sharing feedback and resources
• Mentors offering hard-earned wisdom
• Investors scouting for promising talent
• Universities, corporations, and service providers that support innovation
• Events that promote learning and collaboration

But more than that, it’s a culture, a set of shared values and behaviors that support growth, resilience, and experimentation.

The most powerful communities operate with one key principle: Entrepreneurs lead the community. The role of others, government, universities, or corporations, is to support, not to control.

Why Startup Communities Matter for Founders?

Let’s be clear: the journey of a founder is often lonely, chaotic, and filled with unknowns. Startup communities provide an anchor in this uncertainty. Here’s why every founder should join or help create one:

Faster Learning, Fewer Mistakes

Learning from your own failures is important, but learning from others’ failures is faster and cheaper. In a well-connected startup community, you’ll hear real-time stories of what’s working, what isn’t, and why.

Whether it’s product-market fit, funding rounds, or team dynamics, someone in the community has likely faced the same problem, and their insights can save you months of missteps.

“Communities shrink the gap between trial and insight.”

2. Access to Investors and Partners

Many startups never get funding, not because their idea isn’t good, but because no one knows they exist.

Startup communities are where warm introductions happen. Venture capitalists, angel investors, and corporate partners often rely on trusted referrals from community members. The more active and visible you are, the more likely your startup will be noticed and championed.

3. Emotional Support During Hard Times

Every founder hits a wall at some point. A failed launch, investor rejection, or burnout. During these moments, being part of a group that understands your struggle can keep you going.

Authentic conversations with peers and mentors provide psychological safety and reassurance that you’re not alone.

4. Opportunities You Didn’t Plan For

Communities are breeding grounds for serendipity. A founder at a meetup might introduce you to a co-founder. A conversation in a Slack group could reveal a new market opportunity. The benefits of startup communities go beyond what you can plan or predict.

Building an Authentic Brand Through Community

Startup communities aren’t just support systems, they’re narrative engines.

The most compelling brand stories aren’t crafted in marketing departments. They emerge from real founder experiences, experiments, failures, perseverance, and breakthroughs. When founders openly share their journeys with others in the community, they create stories that resonate deeply with customers and investors.

This narrative authenticity becomes a powerful asset. It builds trust faster than polished PR and sets your brand apart in a crowded market.

Competition Can Be Healthy

Yes, communities can include your competitors. And that’s not a bad thing.

• You’ll learn from their moves.
• You’ll be challenged to innovate faster.
• You might even collaborate on shared challenges like regulation or customer education.

Instead of fearing overlap, view competition as a catalyst. In vibrant startup ecosystems, rivals often elevate each other.

Digital Platforms Are Changing the Game

You don’t need to live in Silicon Valley to be part of a startup community anymore.

Today’s most powerful communities are global and digital. Online forums, remote accelerators, and startup platforms give every founder, regardless of geography, access to talent, advice, and funding.

Here’s what digital startup platforms offer:

• Centralized knowledge: Playbooks, case studies, and feedback loops from real startups.
• High-value connections: Mentors, investors, and early adopters at your fingertips.
• Events with real impact: Not just networking, but pitch feedback, product reviews, and customer validation.
• Inclusive environments: Diverse voices from every background, fostering innovation that reflects the real world.

Community Events That Actually Deliver

Many founders walk out of startup events wondering if it was a waste of time. But when designed well, community events can be transformational.

At their best, these gatherings:

• Connect you with people solving the same problems
• Offer tactical feedback, not just vague encouragement
• Create strategic partnerships or joint ventures
• Let you share your story and refine your pitch
• Boost your visibility within funding and media circles

Make sure the events you attend are focused, interactive, and aligned with your startup’s needs, not just another panel with buzzwords.

Principles That Power Thriving Startup Communities

Research and experience show that successful startup ecosystems are built on these key values:

• Good faith and trust
• Inclusion and openness
• Continuous activity
• Entrepreneurial leadership
• Bottom-up structure, not top-down control

One of the biggest lessons learned in ecosystem development is this: you cannot engineer innovation through command and control. Startup communities grow when they are flexible, self-organizing, and driven by those doing the actual building.

How to Build or Strengthen Your Community

If you can’t find a strong startup community near you—build one. Start small, stay consistent, and focus on quality over scale.

Here’s how to begin:

• Host a monthly founder meetup, even if it’s five people
• Start a WhatsApp or Slack group for local entrepreneurs
• Share your journey online to attract like-minded people
• Partner with local universities or coworking spaces
• Encourage open storytelling and feedback in every interaction

You don’t need a fancy accelerator or government funding to get started. All you need is initiative, consistency, and a willingness to give before you get.

“The most powerful startup communities aren’t managed, they’re nurtured.”

Conclusion: Founders Thrive Together

The myth of the lone genius founder is just that, a myth.

The best startups emerge from collaborative environments, not isolated efforts. Whether you’re a student launching a side project or a seasoned entrepreneur scaling your second venture, being part of a startup community gives you a competitive edge.

So find your people. Or gather them yourself.

Because the startup journey isn’t just about building a product. It’s about building with others.

Launching a startup is one of the most exciting yet overwhelming challenges an entrepreneur can face. The road is often filled with uncertainty, sleepless nights, and decisions that can either make or break your company. While grit, vision, and product-market fit are critical, there’s one often overlooked asset that can fast-track your journey: mentorship.

According to research by Sage, 93% of startups agree that having a mentor is essential to success. Yet, only 28% of founders actually seek one out. If you’re building a company, this article will explain why joining a startup mentorship program could be the smartest decision you’ll ever make.

What Does a Startup Mentor Actually Do?

A startup mentor is someone who has already walked the path you’re navigating. They’ve made the mistakes, learned from them, and now offer practical insights, emotional support, and strategic direction. Here’s what you can expect:

• Real-world business advice not found in textbooks.
• Guidance on strategic decisions like pricing, scaling, or product pivots.
• Access to networks including investors, partners, and early customers.
• Emotional resilience support, especially during founder burnout.

Paul Graham, co-founder of Y Combinator, puts it simply:

“Startups are so hard that if you don’t have someone experienced helping you, the chances of failure skyrocket.”

Benefits of a Startup Mentorship Program

Whether you’re in an accelerator, incubator, or informal network, mentorship drives measurable growth. Here’s how:

1. Faster Learning, Fewer Mistakes

Founders often deal with unfamiliar territory: legal issues, customer acquisition, funding strategies. Instead of spending months figuring it out yourself, mentors help you avoid common traps.

Fact: Businesses with mentoring grow 83% more than those without it.

2. Improved Decision-Making

Mentors ask the tough questions. They challenge your assumptions, forcing you to refine your ideas. This results in stronger decision-making and increased confidence.

3. Emotional & Mental Support

Startup life can be lonely. Many solo founders admit to feeling isolated. Mentors can offer encouragement during setbacks, helping you bounce back from failures with clarity and confidence.

4. Expanded Network

Mentors can open doors that take years to reach. From investor intros to warm customer leads, their connections can give your startup an unfair advantage.

“A mentor is someone who helps you see the hope inside yourself.”
– Oprah Winfrey

Types of Startup Mentorship

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. Choose what suits your stage and needs:

Formal Mentorship Programs

Structured programs like those offered by accelerators (e.g., Y Combinator, Techstars & Canada Startup Association) pair founders with seasoned entrepreneurs. These programs often include pitch practice, office hours, and expert sessions.

Best for: Early-stage founders looking for holistic guidance and exposure.

Informal Mentorship

Some of the best mentors are people you meet organically—at meetups, via LinkedIn, or through mutual connections. These relationships are flexible and often grow stronger over time.

Best for: Specific advice, flexible guidance, or long-term relationships.

Peer Mentorship

Your startup friends are valuable too. Peer mentorship involves sharing ideas and feedback with fellow founders at a similar stage.

Best for: Collaborative growth and emotional support.

Virtual Mentorship

Post-pandemic, founders are connecting with mentors across the globe via Zoom, email, and Slack communities.

Best for: Niche expertise or global perspectives.

Real Results: How Mentorship Transforms Startups

The data doesn’t lie:

• Startups with mentors are 2x more likely to survive beyond 5 years.
• Businesses that receive mentorship increase revenue by an average of 83%.
• Founders in accelerator programs are 50% more likely to secure funding within a year.

Take Brian Chesky, co-founder of Airbnb. He attributes much of the company’s early growth to mentorship from Paul Graham during Y Combinator:

“Paul told us to go meet our users. That advice changed everything.”

What Makes a Good Mentor?

An effective mentor brings more than just experience. Look for these qualities:

• Proven experience in your industry
• Empathy and patience
• Strong communication skills
• Powerful networks
• Commitment to continuous learning

Equally important is the founder’s attitude. Be coachable. Mentors don’t exist to validate your ideas—they exist to challenge and improve them.

Tips for Maximizing Mentorship

Getting a mentor is just the first step. Here’s how to make the most of the relationship:

• Set clear goals: Know what you want to get out of the mentorship.
• Be consistent: Schedule regular check-ins and respect their time.
• Follow through: Act on the advice and give updates on progress.
• Stay open: Accept feedback, even when it’s uncomfortable.
• Give back: Mentorship is a two-way street. Share your wins, energy, or even help them in return.

Final Thoughts

Mentorship isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity.

As a founder, you’ll face more questions than answers. A strong mentor helps you make fewer mistakes, grow faster, and feel less alone in the process. Whether it’s through a formal startup mentorship program or an informal relationship, the guidance of someone who’s been there can make all the difference.

So ask yourself:
Are you building your startup alone… or are you building it with wisdom?

If you don’t yet have a mentor, start today.
Join a founder group.
Reach out to an industry expert.
Apply to an accelerator.

Because the truth is: Startups don’t fail from lack of funding. They fail from lack of guidance.

Canada Startup Association offers handholding and mentorship to its members.

We welcome startups to join our membership program.

Starting and scaling a business in Canada is an exciting but often overwhelming journey. From navigating funding options to staying compliant with federal regulations, entrepreneurs face numerous challenges along the way.

Canada Startup Association offers more than just networking opportunities, they provide mentorship, advocacy, funding insights, and access to valuable resources tailored to Canada’s startup ecosystem.

In this blog, we explore the benefits of joining a Canada startup association and how it can transform your business journey.

What Is a Canada Startup Association?

A Canada startup association is a membership-based organization that brings together business owners, startup founders, and innovators to foster growth, share resources, and influence policy. These associations often operate on local, provincial, or national levels, offering sector-specific or broad-based support for entrepreneurs across industries.

1. Access to Funding Opportunities
   Finding funding is one of the biggest hurdles for Canadian startups. Canada startup associations frequently provide members opportunities to join workshops on topics related to access to funding.

Members gain knowledge about :

• Federal and provincial grant programs
• Angel investor networks
• Loan options for early-stage businesses

This access accelerates your funding journey and helps you build credibility with lenders and investors.

 

2. Mentorship and Peer Support

Entrepreneurship can feel lonely, especially for first-time founders. Being part of a Canada startup association connects you with experienced mentors and a supportive community of peers.

Mentorship benefits include:

• One-on-one coaching from industry leaders
• Group masterminds and forums
• Real-world advice from fellow entrepreneurs

These connections provide emotional support and can help you avoid costly mistakes.

 

3. Business Education and Resources

Canada Startup Association offers members access to:

• Workshops and webinars on key topics like marketing, hiring, and legal compliance
• Templates for business plans and pitch decks
• Research reports and market trends specific to Canadian industries

Whether you’re building a tech startup in anywhere in Canada, you can gain tools that help streamline operations and improve decision-making.

 

4. Policy Advocacy and Representation

Canada Startup Association often advocates for pro-business policies and represent member interests at all levels of government. This is especially important in Canada, where regulations vary by province.

Your membership supports:

• Lobbying efforts to reduce red tape
• Fair taxation for small businesses
• Improved access to innovation funding and export markets

You benefit not only from direct resources but from being part of a collective voice pushing for systemic change.

 

5. Networking That Drives Real Results

Connecting with other entrepreneurs through a Canada Startup Association is more than exchanging business cards. It’s about building authentic relationships that can lead to:

• Strategic partnerships
• New client referrals
• Co-founder matches or team hires

We regularly also host regional meetups, national conferences, and online community spaces that foster collaboration.

 

6. Visibility and Credibility

Joining a Canada Startup Association can enhance your credibility with partners, clients, and investors. You may also get featured in member directories, podcasts, or newsletters, increasing your visibility in the Canadian startup ecosystem.

Some associations even offer badge or logo usage for your website, signaling trust and affiliation.

 

Invest in Your Success

Do not consider it just another checkbox on your to-do-list, joining Canada Startup Association is a strategic move that can accelerate your growth, increase your influence, and strengthen your entrepreneurial resilience.

At Canada Startup Association, we help founders across Canada tap into these associations, access funding, and build smart, scalable businesses.

Ready to unlock the power of community?

“Higher AI literacy leads to higher AI adoption, a critical ingredient to solving Canada’s productivity crisis and creating a more competitive and dynamic economy.”
- Benjie M. Thomas, CEO and Senior Partner, KPMG in Canada

Canada is rapidly evolving into a global destination for international entrepreneurs. The intersection of its thriving AI ecosystem, robust government investment, global mindset, and proactive startup initiatives positions Canada as a magnet for global innovation. If you are launching or scaling a startup, your path now starts in Canada.

The AI Market Boom and Talent Leadership

A December 2024 Government of Canada report forecasts Canada’s AI market will reach $28.2 billion by 2028, growing at approximately 34% annually. Remarkably, 10% of the world’s top-tier AI researchers are based in Canada, placing the country second globally. That ecosystem supports over 1,500 AI firms nationwide, making Canada an innovation powerhouse.

In key sectors:

• Healthcare: Companies like Imagia and BlueDot apply AI to early disease detection.
• Finance: Banks such as RBC and TD heavily invest in AI-driven fraud detection.
• Online gaming: Canada’s legal regulation (Ontario among them) is supporting AI-powered experiences, including in online casinos.

Federal, provincial, and private investment further strengthens Canada’s tech infrastructure. Budget 2024 included a $2 billion Sovereign Compute Strategy, $200 million for regional development, and measures to support a Canadian AI Safety Institute (ised-isde.canada.ca, reddit.com).

Closing the Adoption Gap

Canada’s startup culture reflects strength in innovation and global reach—but adoption tells a different story. According to a November 2024 Forbes report, only 14% of Canadian businesses currently use or plan to implement generative AI (forbes.com). That contrasts sharply with adoption rates of 72% in the US . The challenge is not capability, it’s confidence and education.

Workplace behaviors underscore the issue:

• 61% of Canadian workers use AI tools at work, and 44% report gains in efficiency (researchmoney.ca, forbes.com).
• At the same time, 56% admit to errors from over-reliance on AI, and 48%, report unclear policies—leading to misuse.

This trust and literacy gap also exists nationally. During Budget 2024, the government launched consultations to ensure Canadian innovators have both talent and compute infrastructure (ised-isde.canada.ca). Alberta has supplemented with an AI data‑centre strategy to support sustainable, scalable infrastructure (researchmoney.ca).

Global Startup Canada: Collaborative Edge

Enter the power of international collaboration. For Global Startup Canada, building capacity to leverage both talent and technology means reaching beyond borders

Collaboration with global partners provides:

• Access to diverse skill sets.
• Entry into international markets.
• Shared AI resources.
• Exposure to regulation and business practices worldwide.

The Canada Startup Association is actively facilitating this shift. Many startups participating in past delegations have already created global partnerships.

Our next major delegation will be in Dubai at GITEX / Expand North Star, the world’s largest tech event, from October 12–15, 2025. If you are developing AI-based solutions, this is a chance to scale globally.

As Evan Solomon, Canada’s Minister for AI and Digital Innovation, remarked at Toronto Tech Week in June 2025:

“At Toronto Tech Week, we announced 3 major AI investments right here in Canada. From cutting‑edge research to life‑saving solutions, Canadian talent is world‑class. In uncertain times, we invest in people, because we’re not here to just get by. We’re here to build.”

A Blueprint for Global Startup Canada

1. Invest in Talent Literacy
   Raise the bar through targeted AI training for your team—transform uncertainty into confidence.
2. Pilot Responsible AI
   Deploy AI tools with clear governance to reduce misuse and foster adoption.
3. Expand Through Global Collaboration
   Use delegations such as GITEX to test ideas, validate your solution, and build international partnerships.
4. Leverage Government Infrastructure
   Benefit from Canada’s compute strategy and infrastructure funding to scale responsibly.
5. Communicate with Confidence
   Use Canada’s AI ecosystems and regulatory strengths to build trust with users, partners, and investors.

Why This Matters for Global Startup Canada

Global Startup Canada means startups with a global vision built in Canada. It means leveraging Canada’s AI leadership, trusted infrastructure, and international mindset. It also means equipping teams to adopt AI confidently—and responsibly—to deliver real-world impact.

If you’re building AI solutions and ready to scale, let’s talk. Join us in Dubai, October 12–15 to explore global opportunities and build the partnerships that take ideas from Canada to the world.

A New Beginning Awaits

The AGAZ Summit is back, and it’s set to be bigger than ever.

On September 23, 2025, join us for a transformative day of inspiration, connection, and growth hosted by the Canada Startup Association. AGAZ, inspired by the Urdu word meaning “a new beginning,” stands for Amplifying Growth, Achieving Zenith.

AGAZ  is a movement celebrating resilience, innovation, and the stories of founders redefining entrepreneurship in Canada and beyond.

Why AGAZ Summit Matters

We are aiming at facilitating the founders from the underrepresented communities, we know they are unstoppable. It’s a platform where your story matters, whether you’re launching your first startup or scaling globally.

AGAZ summit is designed to provide founders with spaces that see them, hear them, and grow with them. Rooted in representation, focused on founder-first experiences, and driven by community, AGAZ 2025 is your chance to find momentum for your journey.

What to Expect

• Inspiring Voices: Hear from industry leaders and founders who’ve overcome odds to build success.
• Policy Discussions: Engage in conversations shaping the future of entrepreneurship, with a focus on including BIPOC and immigrant voices in policy-making.
• Networking and Connections: Forge meaningful relationships with over 138 participants, including entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals, through dynamic networking sessions.
• Practical Learning: Gain insights from workshops, panel discussions, and roundtables tailored to your needs.
• Media Spotlight: Showcase your venture and amplify your story.

Reflecting on AGAZ Summit 2024

Last year’s summit was a powerful gathering of over 130 participants, featuring two dynamic panel discussions, three hands-on workshops, 27 exhibitors, and an engaging roundtable. It was a melting pot of ideas and collaboration, leaving attendees with actionable insights. Here are some key takeaways from 2024:

• Export markets offer vast opportunities for global growth.
• Immigrant entrepreneurs can leverage their expertise to carve a niche in Canada.
• Communities must uplift and support fellow founders.
• Authenticity and strategic partnerships are critical for success.
• Mastering the art of saying “no” protects your time and energy.

These lessons, shared by panelists and participants, highlight the summit’s impact in sparking “aha moments” that drive real change.

Why You Can’t Miss AGAZ 2025

AGAZ Summit is an exclusive opportunity for founders who dare to dream big.

This year, we are expecting over 150 participants, this carefully curated experience brings together a select group of disruptors, dreamers, and doers. The summit offers:

• Tailored Support:
• Policy Influence:
• Global Perspective:
• Dynamic Networking:

As one participant from 2024 said, “Innovation thrives where collaboration begins.” AGAZ is where those collaborations start, fostering a community that inspires growth and success.

Join Us on September 23, 2025

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative experience. Save the date for AGAZ Summit 2025 and secure your spot early. Whether you’re building your first venture or your next, AGAZ is where your journey finds its spark.

Register now: to join us in amplifying growth and achieving zenith together.

We can’t wait to meet you and celebrate your story.

Canada Startup Association™
AGAZ Summit Team

Dear Canadian Innovators and Tech Enthusiasts,

We are excited to announce our partnership that will open global opportunities for Canadian Innovation and Startup players.

GITEX Global has officially appointed Canada Startup Association as its representatives in Canada.

GITEX Global is the world’s largest Tech Event organizer based in Dubai.

A Landmark Partnership

Our partnership with GITEX Global comes on the heels of CSA’s ground breaking initiative – organizing the first-ever Canadian startup delegation to GITEX/Expand North Star 2024 in Dubai. This successful mission set the stage for a deeper, more meaningful collaboration.

This collaboration marks a pivotal moment for Canadian innovation.

GITEX Global, renowned for its cutting-edge exhibitions and unparalleled networking opportunities, will now have a direct pipeline to Canada’s vibrant startup ecosystem. In turn, Canadian startups will gain unprecedented access to the global stage.

What This Means for You

1. Global Exposure: As GITEX Global’s official representative in Canada, CSA will be your gateway to international markets in Asia, The Middle East, Africa and Europe.
2. Exclusive Access: Gain priority access to all GITEX events worldwide.
3. Local Opportunities: GITEX Global’s team will be on the ground in Toronto and Vancouver in February 2025, bringing global opportunities right to your doorstep.

GITEX Global: A World of Opportunities

GITEX Global isn’t just an event; it’s a phenomenon. The 2024 edition showcased:

– 6,500+ exhibitors

– 1,800+ startups

– 1,200+ investors

– Representation from 180+ countries

This is the platform where tech giants unveil their latest innovations, where startups secure life-changing investments, and where the future of technology is shaped.

Highlights from GITEX Global 2024

– AI Revolution: Over 120 hours of debates and panels exploring AI’s transformative potential.

– Autonomous Innovations: From flying cars to AI-powered autonomous vehicles, the future of transportation was on full display.

– Government Initiatives: The UAE government showcased its commitment to fostering innovation and driving economic growth.

CSA’s Vision Realized

When we founded CSA, we had a clear vision: to take Canadian startups beyond borders and amplify their potential on the global stage. Our recent trade mission to Expand North Star in Dubai was just the beginning.

Looking Ahead: GITEX Global in Canada

Mark your calendars! The GITEX Global team will be in Toronto and Vancouver in February 2025. This is your chance to:

– Connect with global investors

– Showcase your innovations

– Learn about expansion opportunities in the Middle East and beyond

Join the Movement

The Canada Startup Association is committed to providing Canadian startups with the tools, connections, and opportunities they need to thrive on the global stage. Our partnership with GITEX Global is a testament to this commitment.

As we embark on this exciting new chapter, we invite you to be part of the journey. Whether you’re a startup founder, an investor, or a tech enthusiast, there’s never been a better time to engage with the Canadian startup ecosystem.

Get Involved

1. Stay Informed: Follow CSA on social media for updates on GITEX Global events and opportunities.
2. Prepare for GITEX 2025: Start planning your participation in next year’s GITEX Global event in Dubai.
3. Attend Local Event: Don’t miss the GITEX Global team’s visit to Toronto and Vancouver in February 2025.

The partnership between CSA and GITEX Global is more than just a collaboration; it’s a bridge connecting Canadian innovation to the world. As we step into this new era, we’re excited about the possibilities that lie ahead for Canadian startups.

Together, let’s show the world the power of Canadian innovation!

Innovatively yours,

The Canada Startup Association Team

Visit our website for details of our programs – Click here

90 days from conceptualization to launch!

On 15th November 2023, we formally launched the Canada Startup Association. Our aim is to help immigrants starting their businesses or arriving in Canada under Canada Startup Program in swiftly settling here.

CSA Connect 2023 was a hugely successful event.

Highlights of our event were a keynote speech by Honorable Minister Nina Tangri, Ontario’s Minister of Small Business who delivered a compelling keynote speech and engaged in a valuable Q&A and networking session. Additionally, a dynamic panel discussion further enriched the event, making it both informative and phenomenally successful.

We are thankful to Minister Tangri for graciously giving her time for CSA Connect 2023 and supporting the spirit of entrepreneurship.

In her speech minister Tangri said that. “I would like to thank the Canada Startup Association for your work helping some of Ontario’s best and brightest turn their dream of starting and growing a business into a reality.”

Supporting Canada Startup Association, she said, “Your work to support and elevate startups, amplify opportunities for their growth, and helping to build a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem; businesses can take advantage of is paramount. Our government is proud to support and partner with organizations like yours because we know that it takes a village to achieve success. Canada Startup Association is an integral part of that village, and I thank you for helping to build our economy.”

Minister Nina Tangri

Secondly, the event featured a thought-provoking panel discussion, a great panel discussion, moderated by CSA Executive Director Hammad Siddiqui. During the panel discussion, participants learned about challenges and opportunities for immigrant Entrepreneurs and new startups arriving in Canada.

Panel Discussion

At the Q&A session, banking and credit issues were highlighted by the participants. CSA echoes these concerns from international startups as two major bottlenecks hampering the smooth settlement in Canada.

One participant requested to consider more targeted small grants. He was referring to Digital Main Street project. Minister responded that during the pandemic, that project helped thousands of small businesses to create their online presence.

Our launch event was organized in collaboration with Toronto Region Board of Trade. Canada Startup Association is a proud member of TRBT, an opportunity for our members to reach 11,000 TRBOT members.

Canada Startup Association is a non-profit membership organization. We aim to handhold international startups arriving in Canada.

If you are a new startup in Canada or plan to arrive soon under Canada Startup program, count on us, we assure you of our support!

CSA members will receive undivided attention and guidance to help them settle in Canada swiftly. As an advocacy organization, we will conduct stakeholder meetings to identify issues and recommend possible solutions to government. Our engagements with a wider stakeholder community and within the government policy corridors positions us uniquely in the Canadian Startup ecosystem.

May was a busy month for the Canada Startup Association. We focused on advocating for improvements in the Canadian startup ecosystem. Here are the highlights from this month’s newsletter:

1. Discussion with Ontario’s Associate Minister Nina Tangri
2. Mentoring program with The Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC)
3. Collaboration with Toronto Tech Fest 2024
4. Non Profit Driven, a panel discussion at the Ontario Nonprofit Network
5. Building a Prosperous Future for Toronto’s Tech Sector with Toronto Inc powered by Council for Canadian Innovators.

At the Canada Startup Association, we are determined to continue our support and advocacy efforts.

Discussion with Assistant Minister for Small Industries (Ontario):

It is important to keep highlighting the challenges faced by small businesses and new entrepreneurs. CSA President Tehmina Chaudhary participated in the roundtable discussion. Other business and economic associations also echoed the need for improving the business environment. CSA has raised concerns about the challenges that immigrant entrepreneurs face, especially those coming to Canada on the Startup Visa. From financial services to finding the right networks, these entrepreneurs often encounter significant obstacles that hinder their ability to succeed.

Toronto Tech Fest:

With 85 events, 10,000+ RSVPs, 255+ community co-hosts and partners, and some of the best founder memories to date, CSA proudly collaborated with Toronto Tech Fest and organized the only event in the west of Toronto. It was an amazing gathering of business professionals and startups.

No one denies the fact that generative AI is transformational; however, most of us still struggle to use it effectively in our businesses. This was the reason we selected this topic for our event. Attended by 28 amazing startups and small businesses, including two non-profits, the highlight of this discussion was a business case for creating a generative AI-based application to help teachers reduce burnout and save several hours every day.

Generative AI is here to stay, so let’s learn it for our and others’ advantage!

ICTC (The Information and Communications Technology Council):

We are thrilled to continue our mentoring project with ICTC. This month, we organized mentoring sessions on the following topics:

– Personal Branding Essentials and Leadership Development

– Financial Modeling for Pitching

– Building and Managing a Startup Team

– Network Building and Strategic Partnerships

– Mastering Negotiation Techniques with Clients and Investors

– AI-Powered Business Solutions

– Effective Pitching: Crafting a Compelling Narrative for Fundraising and Grants

– Product Market Fit

– Building Business Using LinkedIn B2B Strategy

Under this program, the Canada Startup Association is mentoring 160 Ontario-based entrepreneurs. The aim of this project is to enhance participants’ capacity to become sustainable and growth-oriented businesses. Since we specialize in mentoring startups and small businesses, we are extending our services to other organizations in Canada and beyond.

Council for Canadian Innovators (Building a Prosperous Future for Toronto’s Tech Sector):

Tehmina Chaudhry was a panelist at the inaugural networking event and panel discussion hosted by Toronto Inc., part of the Innovator Network of Canada (Inc.).

Tehmina focused on four key points that impact startups in Canada:

Understanding Challenges and Goals: She emphasized the importance of recognizing the current challenges facing Canada’s economy and identifying where the country wants to go. This understanding is crucial for developing effective strategies.

Proposing Solutions: She highlighted the need for actionable solutions to improve the situation and stressed the significance of constructive efforts aimed at making positive changes rather than merely criticizing existing conditions.

Role of Individuals and Collectives: She pointed out that individual and collective efforts are essential in addressing economic challenges. It’s important for everyone to contribute towards making Canada a better place.

Global Contribution: She underscored that the world needs Canada’s contributions and questioned what kind of Canada the nation wants to present globally. She encouraged a proactive approach in shaping the country’s future.

Other panelists included:

– Allen Lau, Co-Founder & Operating Partner of Two Small Fish Ventures

– Susy Martins, CEO of Advise2Rise

– Benjamin Bergen, President of the Council of Canadian Innovators

– Bianca Bharti, Journalist at BetaKit

Inc. is a platform dedicated to fostering innovation, economic growth, and community development in Canada, powered by the Council of Canadian Innovators with regional chapters led by local business leaders and economic organizations.

CSA is delighted to be part of this advocacy effort.

Non Profit Driven (Ontario Nonprofit Network):

Nonprofits are a strong arm of the Canadian ecosystem. The Ontario Nonprofit Network is an amazing organization that brings Ontario-based non-profits together for networking and continued learning. Thanks to the Syrian Canadian Foundation’s Women in Civic Engagement program for inviting the Canada Startup Association to join the conference.

Over two days, we engaged in intense discussions and workshops on innovative management strategies, collaborative processes, and dismantling systemic barriers through effective community engagement. Meeting passionate professionals and exchanging ideas was truly inspiring and reinforced the power of collaboration in driving meaningful change. We are excited to implement these insights moving forward.