EVENT
Black Innovation Summit 2026
October 28, 2026
Hosted by Scotiabank
Black Means Business.
The Black Innovation Summit is Canada's premier pitch competition for Black tech founders. It's back again, for its sixth annual event, on Wednesday, October 28 in the heart of downtown Toronto.
Selected startups will take part in an investor-readiness program that includes pitch coaching and $10,000 in legal support. They’ll then compete live on October 28 for over $150,000 in investments and grants. Since its launch, the Summit has awarded more than $600,000 to Black-led startups, helping founders turn early momentum into real growth.
Applications are now open.
Black Innovation in the spotlight.
Explore the stories, milestones and defining moments from Black Innovation Summit.
Pitch for $150K+ in investments & grants.
We’re calling on Canada’s most promising Black tech
founders to step onto the national stage and showcase
bold ideas at this year’s Summit.
Bring your vision, amplify your story, and connect with
industry leaders and community allies driving change.
Applications are now open.
Investor readiness program
The top finalists will receive two sessions to
refine their pitch with expert guidance.
Legal support
Top companies will receive a minimum of $10,000 in legal support through the Black Innovation Summit.
Exclusive PR opportunities
Gain visibility through DMZ’s social channels, partner networks and press, showcasing your startup to investors, industry leaders and the tech ecosystem.
Pitch live for investments and grants
The top finalists will pitch live at the Summit for a chance to win over $150K in investments and grants.
What to expect?
Here's what's going down at our biggest Black Innovation Summit yet.
Watch Canada’s top Black founders compete live for over $150K in funding in front
of investors, industry leaders and key players in the startup ecosystem.
Hear from trailblazing speakers sharing real strategies and stories behind building
game-changing companies.
Network with investors, mentors and key industry players driving change in the ecosystem.
Stay tuned for more information on how to RSVP for the event.
The connections I built through the Black Innovation Summit have been incredible. From founders shaping Canada's future to investors and partners committed to empowering Black entrepreneurs, these relationships will continue opening doors for years to come.
David Owasi
CEO, Outreach Genius
Winner, BIS 2025
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Our partners.
Meet the champions behind this year’s Black Innovation Summit.
Presenting Partner
Presenting Partner
Interested in getting involved? Connect with Rotimi, DMZ’s Black Innovation Programs Manager.
Frequently asked questions.
The 2026 Black Innovation Summit will be taking place 68 floors above Toronto’s Financial District at SixtyEight at Scotia Plaza. Stay tuned for more information on how to RSVP for the event.
Applications to pitch at the Black Innovation Summit 2026 close on Friday, August 28 2026 at 11:59 PM.
The pitch competition is for Black tech founders with a functional MVP and business dedicated to solving a compelling problem using innovative technology. Founders must apply and be available to attend the Summit in person in downtown Toronto. Applications are evaluated based on the following criteria:
- Product stage
- Scalability
- Leadership proficiency
- Market assessment
- Technological capabilities
- Traction
Who should apply?
- Black founder: A Black founder or co-founder leading the business
- Technology business: Leveraging technology to solve a real problem
- Open to travel: Founder must be able to pitch in person in Toronto
- Strong team: Coachable, driven and collaborative leadership
- Growth potential: Positioned to become a venture-backable startup
- Startups in dual-use and sovereign tech are strongly encouraged to apply.
Investors who are interested in participating in the Black Innovation Summit should reach out to Rotimi, DMZ’s Black Innovation Programs Manager – rotimi.tijani@torontomu.ca.
Black entrepreneurs bring incredible innovation and talent to the startup world, yet they often encounter systemic barriers to resources, funding and representation. DMZ’s Black Innovation Programs (BIP) bridge the opportunity gap for Black-owned tech startups, fostering their growth and success. Learn more about the benefits Black entrepreneurs receive at DMZ.
Yes. All pitch competition applicants will also be considered for DMZ’s Validation-focused incubation program built to support early-stage Black founders with mentorship, traction-building resources, and community support.
DMZ’s Black Innovation Summit will take place on October 28, 2026, and will incorporate a high-stakes pitch competition. Black founders will take the stage to compete for over $150,000 in investments and grants.
Our partners.
Meet the champions behind this year’s Black Innovation Summit.