Download Info Package

DMZ has helped 800+ startups raise $2.54B+. 
See how we help founders like you level up.

By downloading, you agree to receive DMZ’s bi-weekly newsletter and updates about programs, events, and opportunities. Unsubscribe anytime.

Success! Your info package is on its way.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Driving the
future of aviation.

Piloting breakthrough technology at one of North America's busiest airports.

Apply to ProgramTake Courses
Toronto Pearson Terminal Link Train connecting airport terminals at Toronto Pearson International Airport

Setting a new standard for airport innovation.

DMZ and the Toronto Pearson International Airport are working together to unlock smarter, faster and more connected travel experience powered by global startups.

Toronto Pearson, one of North America’s busiest airports, will work with selected companies to pilot their tech – advancing operational efficiency, elevating passenger experiences and pushing boundaries for airport innovation.

Your innovation could
move millions. Literally.

Toronto Pearson is a global gateway and a major node of air and ground transportation. This opportunity will provide the framework for real deployment, measurable outcomes and the possibility of scale.

42M+ annual reach

Put your tech in front of tens of millions of travellers.
‍

Passengers with carry-on bags walking through terminal at Toronto Pearson International Airport, Canada’s busiest airport

Live playground

Pearson’s complex ecosystem offers a live playground for real-world innovation.

Overview of Toronto Pearson Airport access routes, highways, and parking lots illustrating transportation and mobility infrastructure at Canada’s busiest airport

Built for growth

Toronto Pearson is primed to invest in technology that works.

Welcome to Toronto Pearson International Airport sign greeting travelers arriving at Canada’s busiest airport

Our team

Meet the team bringing startup innovation to Toronto Pearson.

Questions? Let’s talk

Sherif El Tawil

Senior Director, Programs & Global Operations

Sherif is the Sr. Director, Programs & Global Operations at DMZ, a leading tech incubator that provides high-potential founders with the resources and connections needed to build world-class companies. Headquartered in Toronto, Canada, DMZ has a significant global presence with on-the-ground operations in 10+ countries around the world.

‍

As Senior Director, Sherif is responsible for developing and implementing DMZ’s overall programs and partnerships strategy, both locally and globally.

‍

Passionate about pushing the envelope, Sherif believes that the best way to drive exponential growth in Canada and across the world is to tap into the startup and innovation ecosystem and bring emerging technological solutions to the forefront.

‍

During his 14 years with the organization, Sherif has played an integral role in laying the foundation for the incubator’s operating and business development functions. Sherif’s leadership has been instrumental in building scalable processes to expand DMZ’s programming services to new global markets, empowering partners to drive growth within their local startup ecosystems.

‍

Today, DMZ is a recognized player across the global tech landscape with operations in North America, the Caribbean, Africa and Asia, and a network of 1000+ startups worldwide to date.

‍

Sherif’s insights on the startup and innovation ecosystem can be found in outlets including the Toronto Star, the Logic and Betakit.

Alix Ali-Dib

Senior Manager, SkillHouse & Global Programs

As Sr. Manager of Global Programs, Alix oversees operations across 11 locations, fostering collaboration and efficiency within a diverse global network. With a focus on advisory services and business development, Alix works alongside governments, universities, and NGOs to design innovative programs that drive meaningful impact.
‍

Committed to helping startups scale globally, Alix connects businesses with the resources, mentorship, and ecosystems needed to thrive. By advancing strategic partnerships and global initiatives, Alix empowers organizations to navigate complex challenges and achieve sustainable growth.
‍

Outside of work, Alix is actively involved with a Lebanese dog rescue group where she met the love of her life Albi, a blind miniature poodle. Alix is also an avid traveler, with her favourite destinations being Greece and Morocco.

Most used app?

Uber

‍

What would your dream holiday be?

Giraffe Manor in Kenya

‍

What’s the first thing you’d buy if you won a million dollars?

A week at Giraffe Manor :)

‍

What's your true passion?

The environment and ecological restoration!

‍

Pick two celebrities to be your parents.

Posh and Becks

‍

‍

Ready to test and scale
at Toronto Pearson?

If you have a solution that can drive non-aeronautical revenue, unlock operational
efficiencies in parking, navigation or data capture, tell us more about your company.