Startupfest is a three-day founder-focused festival in Montréal that brings founders, investors, and ecosystem leaders from across the world together to connect and unlock real opportunities. The event is built on our three core pillars: the Startupfest Village, our world-class content, and high-stakes pitch competitions. Every feature is designed to provide direct value for your business, moving you from inspiration to unwavering momentum. Startupfest is engineered to put you directly in front of the people who can fund, advise, and accelerate your startup to the next level. No distractions. Pure momentum.
$1M+
in investment prizes up for grabs
120+
battle-tested speakers and mentors
25%
of attendees can sign your term sheet
16yrs
of putting founders first
Since our founding in 2011, Startupfest has awarded more than $9M in investment prizes alone. Our $100K prizes—spanning categories like Best of the Fest, Women in Tech, and Black Entrepreneurs—serve as a pivotal launchpad for high-potential founders. In the Startupfest Village, we pair this capital with immersive networking; through Mentor Office Hours, Braindates, and curated Match-Ups, every moment is designed to turn conversations into partnerships and momentum. All of this is set against our vibrant, festival-style atmosphere on Montréal’s waterfront, transforming the daily grind into a high-energy, high-reward experience.
“There really isn’t another event like this.”
Margaret Dawson, Global Product Marketing at Red Hat
“I was here and pitched Onavo, my company, we picked up one of the top prizes and later we get picked up by Facebook. It’s awesome.”
Guy Rosen, Facebook
“Startupfest is legit! It has so many elements of a music festival, but it’s for startups! Hopefully there are a couple of people in the audience that want to come and work at Reddit.”
Alexis Ohanian, Reddit
"I loved every minute – great bonding and networking – and amazing event. The best startup/entrepreneurial conf in the world. It is."
Randy Smerik, President & CEO, Tarari Inc.
Talent is Everywhere. Access is Not.
At Startupfest, access to expertise isn't confined to a seat in the audience. Our speakers double as Startupfest mentors, moving from the stage to the Village for Mentor Office Hours and Braindates to deliver tactical solutions for your specific challenges. Meet the experts ready to help you level up.
2026 Theme: Coming of Age
The best founders see the world not as it is, but as it should be. It takes a kind of “child’s mind” to see what’s truly possible and push the status quo flat on its back. Like a child, a startup is shaped by how it is raised. By the people who show up, the moments that test it, and the experiences that help turn ideas into something real. And like a child, a business will come of age.
For sixteen years, Startupfest has been a catalyst for founders on this journey to maturity. So, whether you’re taking your first steps, rebelling against the world, or well on your way to scale, come of age with us this July.
Join us in the world’s festival capital.
Montréal is second to none. As Startupfest takes over the iconic Old Port, the city transforms into a global stage for tech, culture, and nightlife. From waterfront views of our beloved venue at the Grand Quay to the hidden terraces of Old Montréal, your trip to Startupfest will be the definition of business and pleasure.
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Partners & Sponsors
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