Startupfest 2026: Where Founders Come to Level Up
Date: July 8–10, 2026
Location: Grand Quay of the Port of Montréal, Montreal, Quebec
Website: Startupfest 2026
About the Event
Startupfest 2026 returns to Montreal for three days of founder-focused programming, bringing together entrepreneurs, investors, operators, accelerators, and ecosystem leaders from around the world. Widely regarded as one of Canada’s premier startup gatherings, the event combines investment opportunities, mentorship, networking, and startup showcases in a festival-style environment on Montreal’s waterfront.
Since its launch in 2011, Startupfest has awarded more than $9 million in investment prizes and continues to create opportunities for founders to connect directly with investors, mentors, and potential partners. The 2026 edition features Startupfest Village, mentor office hours, curated networking sessions, pitch competitions, investor meetings, and startup showcases. (
Why Attend?
✅ Meet Venture Capitalists and Angel Investors
✅ Pitch for More Than $1 Million in Investment Prizes
✅ One-on-One Investor Meetings
✅ Founder Networking and Matchmaking
✅ Mentor Office Hours
✅ Startup Showcase Opportunities
✅ Workshops, Keynotes, and Fireside Chats
✅ Access to Canada’s Leading Startup Ecosystem Players (startupfest.com)
Featured Speakers
Previous and confirmed Startupfest speakers and mentors include:
- Harley Finkelstein
- Georges St-Pierre
- Misti Cain
- Andrew Lockhead
- Haley Bryant (startupfest.com)
Who Should Attend?
- Startup Founders
- Early-Stage Entrepreneurs
- Angel Investors
- Venture Capital Firms
- Accelerators and Incubators
- Corporate Innovation Teams
- Students and Aspiring Entrepreneurs
- Startup Service Providers
TechBeat Take
If you’re a founder looking to raise capital, meet investors, build partnerships, or gain exposure for your startup, Startupfest remains one of the most valuable events in Canada. With a strong focus on actionable connections rather than traditional conference networking, it continues to attract some of the country’s most ambitious founders and funders. (startupfest.com)
