TORONTO, October 27, 2025 - DMZ, a world-leading tech incubator based at Toronto Metropolitan University, today announced the launch of the Toronto Pearson Innovation Program in partnership with Toronto Pearson Airport. The pilot initiative will connect startups with opportunities to test and scale their technologies at one of North America's busiest airports, reaching more than 42 million passengers annually.
The program represents a new approach to airport innovation, opening doors for emerging companies to pilot solutions that enhance operational efficiency and passenger experience at a major transportation hub. Selected startups will work directly with Toronto Pearson to deploy their technologies in real-world conditions, focusing on non-aeronautical revenue, parking and traffic flow management, wayfinding and navigation and real-time data capture.
"Toronto Pearson is setting the bar for how major operators can tap into startup innovation to solve real challenges. The mobility and aviation sector needs fresh thinking, and there's no better place to find breakthrough solutions than with the entrepreneurs building them in our own backyard," said Abdullah Snobar, Executive Director of DMZ and CEO of DMZ Ventures. "We're excited to help Toronto Pearson discover solutions that can make a tangible difference for millions of passengers while showing what's possible when you give startups a seat at the table."
As part of the partnership, DMZ Senior Director of Programs and Global Operations Sherif El Tawil will serve as an Expert-in-Residence at Toronto Pearson, working on-site to understand the airport's operational needs and connect leadership with innovative companies in DMZ's network.
"Canada and Toronto are hotbeds for startup talent and artificial intelligence, said Brian Tossan, Chief Technology Officer at Toronto Pearson. Partnering with DMZ allows us to broaden our options beyond traditional aviation technology companies and tap into fresh thinking from emerging innovators. We're excited to harness new ideas and apply them at the country's busiest airport to accelerate digitalization, expand capacity, and reinforce operational resiliency."
The Toronto Pearson Innovation Program offers startups access to a live operational environment where technologies can be tested at scale, measurable outcomes that demonstrate real-world impact and potential for long-term partnership with an organization primed to invest in solutions that work.
The partnership is part of DMZ's broader work connecting enterprises with startups and emerging technologies. Through structured partnerships, DMZ helps organizations deploy new solutions that deliver measurable business results.
Canadian startups interested in participating can learn more and apply at dmz.to/Toronto-Pearson.
Enterprises interested in partnering with DMZ for pilot opportunities can contact Sherif El Tawil, Senior Director, Programs and Global Operations at DMZ at sherifEl.Tawil@gtaa.com.
-30-
Media Contact:
Luvy Hardy
luvy.hardy@torontomu.ca
About DMZ
DMZ is a tech incubator and startup ecosystem that fuels entrepreneurship in Canada and beyond. Through its award-winning programs, DMZ empowers founders to scale high-impact ventures, helps students develop entrepreneurial mindsets and equips professionals to thrive in today’s fast-moving economy. By offering tailored support, world-class resources and expansive networks, DMZ nurtures bold ideas, drives business growth and creates global economic impact.
To date, DMZ has supported 2600+ startups in raising $2.95 billion in capital and has created over 25,350 jobs. Headquartered in Toronto, DMZ operates a global network of hubs spanning 15+ countries, enabling entrepreneurs to access diverse markets, collaborate internationally and drive global innovation. Learn more at dmz.torontomu.ca.
About Toronto Pearson
The Greater Toronto Airports Authority is the operator of Toronto Pearson International Airport, Canada’s largest airport and a vital connector of people, businesses, and goods.
Toronto Pearson has been named “Best Large Airport in North America serving more than 40 million passengers” seven times in the last eight years by Airports Council International, the global trade representative of the world’s airports. Toronto Pearson was also recognized in 2025 as one of “Canada’s Best Employers” by Forbes.
For operational updates and passenger information, please visit @TorontoPearson/@AeroportPearson on X. You can also follow us on Facebook or Instagram.
