A global tech and AI startup conference in Toronto, with the Ascend 100 competition at its heart.
Ascend Tech brings the world's most promising tech and AI startups to Toronto for three days of competition, investment and connection. Startups from any country apply on merit. The best 100 are flown in, fully funded, to show their products, pitch to global investors and compete for CAD 500,000+ in startup grants.
Most tech conferences sell tickets and add a pitch stage. Ascend Tech works the other way round. The global competition comes first, and the conference, investor programme and awards are built around it.
Fully funded finalists
Flights, hotel, airport transfers, meals and event passes for two people
Selection on merit
Investors meet a credible, vetted group of startups
Investors in the room
A private Investor Lounge for finalists and approved investors
Toronto as the stage
One of North America's leading AI and tech hubs
15 to 17 June 2027 in Toronto, Canada. Arrival for finalists is on Monday 14 June and departure is on Friday 18 June. The venue will be announced soon.
Ascend Tech is organised by Ascend Leadership, a professional community with members, chapters and corporate partners who provide a ready audience for the startups on our stage.
