I’ve successfully returned from the summer camp for Canadian tech: Startupfest.
I’m fond of that nickname, but what does it signify? Broadly, how does Startupfest stand out from other tech events?
“History never stops. It’s a living reality.”
Phil Telio
Startupfest founder
Startupfest is where grandmas are the most popular pitch judges, and dragon boat races or bad weather can alter your plans. The main aim is to gather Canadian tech on Montréal’s beautiful waterfront in summer and foster connections.
I’ve attended Startupfest 11 times, but this one marked its 15th anniversary. We’ve had Startupfest organizers Alistair Croll and Rebecca Croll on our podcast before, but never founder Phil Telio. This week, he joins us to discuss Startupfest’s history, leading to insights on Canadian tech’s evolution.
History and ambition were major themes this year: featuring a hall of fame wall celebrating 45 influential people in Startupfest’s decade and a half journey, along with a door from the now-closed Montréal tech hub Notman House, adorned with stickers from numerous startups.
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But this episode isn’t merely a museum piece. As Phil says, “History never stops. It’s a living reality.”
This podcast explores the origins of the Canadian tech community and its generational evolution. Sometimes a door can serve as a bridge.
Let’s explore further.
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Edited by Darian MacDonald. Feature image courtesy of Douglas Soltys for BetaKit.