Toronto is a vibrant hub for startups, with several networking events throughout the year that can help entrepreneurs connect with investors, mentors, and other founders. Here are some top business networking events for startups in Toronto:
Key Networking Events for Startups:
1. University of Toronto Entrepreneurship Week 2025
- Entrepreneurship Week at the University of Toronto features 15+ events hosted by UTE and local innovation hubs, including fireside chats, panel discussions, pitch competitions, and International Women’s Day celebrations. The flagship True Blue Impact Day on March 6 showcases 40+ U of T startups, features a keynote by Nobel Prize Winner Geoffrey Hinton, and includes the Desjardins Startup Prize competition with $100k in prizes for 10 startups.
- When: March 3, 2025, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm to March 7, 2025, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Cost: Free
- Reservations / Advance Tickets are required
- Online: entrepreneurs.utoronto.ca
- Email: entrepreneurs@utoronto.ca
2. Financial Inclusion, Business Financing & Networking for Immigrants
- Business Educational and Networking Event focused on inspiring leadership and resourcefulness. Everyone is welcome!
- Entrepreneurship can be intimidating, but this event will help you navigate funding, legal, and accounting needs. Prioritizing these aspects is crucial for your business’s success.
- In this meetup, panelists will debunk common funding misconceptions and provide insights to help you take your next steps.
- Date & Time: Fri, 07 Feb, 2025 at 05:30 pm to 09:15 pm (EST)
- Location: City Hall Toronto, 100 Queen St West, Toronto, Canada
3. Networking Event for Professionals by The Hip Haus
- The Hip Haus empowers professionals in the GTA by fostering connections and supporting local businesses. In today’s post-pandemic world, networking can be challenging, but The Hip Haus creates social gatherings that facilitate meaningful connections and career advice.
- **Who Should Attend?** The Hip Haus events are 19+. They focus on the growth and development of professionals in the GTA. Whether you’re a business owner, job seeker, recent graduate, or simply looking to network or launch a new idea, our events are for you. We embrace diversity across industries, welcoming professionals from Tech, AI, entrepreneurship, music, art, banking, IT, accounting, investing, marketing, blogging, law, medicine, and more. ALL ARE WELCOME!
- Tickets: Tickets for Networking Event for Professionals by The Hip Haus – Feb 7th can be booked here
- Date & Time: Fri, 07 Feb, 2025 at 06:00 pm to 10:00 pm (EST)
- Location: Lavelle, 627 King St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1M5, Canada
4. Startup Canada Tour
The Startup Canada Tour is an exciting and impactful event for entrepreneurs across the country, and it is making a comeback for its third year! This annual cross-country conference series unites early-stage entrepreneurs, support organizations, and industry experts to provide the essential resources and knowledge needed to help businesses grow and thrive.
Why Attend the Startup Canada Tour:
Early-stage entrepreneurs can gain access to valuable resources that can accelerate their growth.
It’s a great way to gain exposure and connect with potential investors or partners.
The event creates a community where entrepreneurs can find support and collaborate, helping to strengthen the startup ecosystem across Canada.
Prepare for an inspiring experience with keynote speeches, engaging panel discussions, actionable workshops, expert advice, and curated networking sessions, all held in high-energy venues designed to promote innovation and connections.
Early bird tickets are available now and can be purchased until March 31! This is an event you won’t want to miss. Visit startupcanadatour.ca to register for a location near you.
5.The Business Expo – Markham
The Business Expo – Markham is a prominent annual event that typically brings together entrepreneurs, business owners, professionals, and industry experts from across Ontario. It’s a great opportunity for networking, learning, and discovering new business opportunities
Why Attend:
- Meet potential partners: Find new business connections or customers.
- Gain insights: Learn from industry leaders and discover new tools, strategies, and trends.
- Showcase your business: If you’re a vendor or exhibitor, it’s a chance to showcase your products and services to a wider audience.
Tickets: $149.37
Savoy Event Venue
7255 Warden Avenue Markham, ON L3R 1B4
Additional Tips for Networking:
- Be prepared: Make sure to have your elevator pitch polished and your business cards at the ready! You never know when an amazing opportunity might arise.
- Follow up: After meeting someone, be sure to send a follow-up message to maintain the connection.
- Be active on social media: Engaging with event organizers and attendees on LinkedIn and Twitter can leave a lasting impression. Toronto offers many resources for new entrepreneurs to learn and grow, whether you’re just starting or looking to expand your business.
