Elevate Festival supports Canadian founders facing economic challenges

Canada is making efforts to establish itself as a notable player in the global tech economy. One prominent event facilitating this goal is the Elevate Festival, which is set to take place from October 7 to 9, 2025, in Toronto. The festival is designed to connect founders, investors, policymakers, and global leaders to showcase and discuss innovations coming from Canada. With an emphasis on creating opportunities for founders, the event has evolved since its launch in 2017, transforming from a small local gathering to a significant global platform aimed at legitimizing Canadian innovation. In recent years, the festival has expanded to include various ongoing programs in addition to two flagship events, recognizing the necessity for year-round support for entrepreneurs. This year, as the festival approaches, Canadian founders are facing notable challenges in obtaining venture capital. Reports indicate a sharp decline in activity, with data showing that in the first half of 2025, Canadian startups raised approximately $2.9 billion CAD, a decrease of over 25% from the same timeframe in 2024, marking the lowest total since 2020. Lisa Zarzeczny, cofounder and CEO of Elevate, acknowledges that many entrepreneurs are under significant pressure due to these economic uncertainties. Consequently, the festival is seen as a crucial space for open discussions regarding these challenges, providing an avenue for founders to connect with a supportive community and receive expert guidance. The 2025 edition of the festival is presented as a vital opportunity—both to feature high-profile speakers and global talent, and to offer tangible benefits to attendees looking for resources to navigate these tumultuous times. As Canada aims to position itself as an essential tech hub, the Elevate Festival plays a critical role in showcasing the country’s tech ecosystem. The events like Elevate, along with international gatherings such as the Web Summit, contribute significantly to the tech landscape, yet Elevate maintains a distinct focus on the unique Canadian entrepreneurial arena. Its growth from a grassroots idea to a major fixture in the industry underlines the importance of visibility and ongoing support for local startups, making it an essential event for fostering innovation in Canada.