"When we launched the Startup Canada Equal Slice program, powered by Pizza Hut Canada in 2025, we knew there were incredible entrepreneurs across the country who just needed the right opportunity to showcase and grow their businesses; What we didn't know was just how many were out there, ready to step up and share their dreams. This year proved what we've always suspected: when you create real opportunities for underserved entrepreneurs, they don't just show up, they rise up and impress."
"The demographics of our participants reflect exactly the kind of equitable access we set out to create: 62.7% identified as visible minorities 56.3% identified as women entrepreneurs 18.2% identified as newcomers to Canada 12.2% were youth entrepreneurs (under 29) 9.6% identified as persons with disabilities 7.9% identified as 2SLGBTQIA+ 3.3% lived in rural areas 1.9% identified as Indigenous, First Nation, Inuit, or Metis 1% were seniorpreneurs (65 years+)"
The Startup Canada Equal Slice program, powered by Pizza Hut Canada, drew strong nationwide interest and participation. Entrepreneurs arrived from over 100 cities and represented sectors including STEM, healthcare, food and beverage, and clean technology. Participants included newcomers, women, youth, persons with disabilities, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, rural residents, Indigenous peoples, and seniorpreneurs. Registration for a Toronto pitch competition attracted a high volume of applications and momentum continued into a virtual competition in October. Over 350 entrepreneurs refined pitches and competed for opportunities. The majority of participants were current entrepreneurs (76.2%), demonstrating broad engagement from underserved communities.
Read at www.startupcan.ca
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