Business Development Toronto

Beyond Chatbots: The AI Agent That Follows Up on Every Lead (Virtual)

Every business has the same quiet leak: leads come in, and the busy ones slip through before you get back to them — and they call someone else. In this session I'll show the whole journey live, on a real phone: a missed call triggers an instant text-back with a booking link, the lead books straight into the calendar, and the agent asks a few qualifying questions so you walk into the call prepared. We'll show you what's genuinely possible now, where it fits a real business, and what it would take to put it to work in yours. We'll be using different tools including CRM, Excel, Claude Code & Cowork for demo purpose. You'll see how these tools figure things out for you and go beyond chatbots and conversation-based interaction. Essentially, you'll be building your own autonomous agent. Wanna know more? Contact the host!

Government Grants for Small Businesses and Real Estate Investors!

Welcome to **Government Grants for Small Business and Real Estate Investors**. Join us on **July 21, 2026** for an informative session designed for small business owners, entrepreneurs, and real estate professionals who want to better understand available government grant opportunities. This paid event is **$10 per attendee** and will showcase **14 different grant programs** that may help support business growth, expansion, innovation, hiring, exporting, and investment-related activities. During the session, our expert will walk attendees through the different grant opportunities, explain how the application process generally works, and provide practical guidance on how to approach grant funding strategically. Whether you are starting a new venture, expanding an existing business, or exploring opportunities as a real estate professional, this event is designed to help you understand what may be available and how to prepare. It is important to note that many government grants are **not loans** and generally do not need to be repaid when properly approved and used according to program requirements. These programs are often created to support small businesses, encourage economic growth, promote innovation, and help companies expand into new markets. By attending, you will learn about funding opportunities that may help you grow without taking on traditional debt. Each attendee will also receive a comprehensive booklet containing the information presented during the session. This booklet is intended to serve as a practical reference tool after the event. Attendees may also receive access to sample grant application materials and supporting resources that can be used as a guide when preparing future applications. **Event Fee:** $10 per attendee **Date:** Wednesday, July 21, 2026 **Registration:** RSVP required **Seating:** Limited seating available **Agenda** **6:00pm – 6:15pm:** General Networking **6:15pm – 9:00pm:** Seminar by the Expert In addition to the presentations and resources, this event also provides an opportunity for business networking. Attendees will have the chance to connect with other business owners, entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals who are interested in growth, funding, and business development. Please feel free to bring business cards and be prepared to engage in meaningful conversations. **About LeaderSHIFT** LeaderSHIFT is a leadership development program for CEOs, Presidents, and business owners who want to discover innovative leadership strategies and capitalize on growth opportunities. The program offers sessions focused on practical, relevant, and forward-thinking ideas from experienced business professionals. LeaderSHIFT covers topics that matter to growth-minded entrepreneurs, including leadership, finance, strategy, innovation, and people. Participants have the opportunity to exchange ideas, discuss common business experiences, and connect with other entrepreneurs who are focused on taking their businesses to the next level. Photography and audio/video recordings are not permitted without prior consent from Amit Kapoor. **Questions or Concerns?** Please feel free to reach out by SMS at **437-248-7424** if you have any questions or concerns.

Video Game Development Discussion

Calling all game developers of all types! Whether that be developing through the Unreal or Unity Engine. Or custom programming through C++ or Javascript. If you're not a developer, but on the artistic side (Music and Graphics) you are welcome too. Join us for a casual informal meeting to network and chat sharing tips of the trade and challenges faced with game developers. Feel to bring in your projects on your laptop, phone or tablet for a bit of Show 'n Tell.

GTApreneurs August 5-2026 Toronto Business Networking Event

Toronto Founders and Entrepreneurs Networking at 5 Elements Espresso Bar

Join the Toronto Founders Hub every other Saturday at 3:30pm for our regular meetup at 5 Elements Espresso Bar. Sit down with other entrepreneurs to network and discuss business ideas or strategies. \- Broaden your network \- Get critical feedback \- Socialize in low pressure setting I look forward to seeing you!

Toronto’s Largest Ecommerce Networking Event – Rooftop Entrepreneurs Mixer✨

***Tickets must be purchased in advance - 1 drink included:*** https://luma.com/ecomTO2607?utm_source=meetup ***(limited early bird & discounted tickets available)*** \-\-\- ​Surround yourself with top ecommerce founders and operators at one of the city’s trendiest venues. 🚀 Hosted by the Ecom Network, this high-energy night brings together people actively building and scaling real businesses. ​Enjoy meaningful conversations on growth strategies and AI-powered workflows, alongside great drinks 🍸, curated music 🎶, and a room full of ambitious people looking to grow faster and smarter. 💡🤝 ​ [Follow us on Instagram @Ecomnetworking](https://instagram.com/ecomnetworking) \-\-\- 🍹 **Enjoy a Complimentary Longdrink or Beer**, courtesy of our sponsor **DevFortress🔥**Grab a drink, meet new people, and enjoy a great night of networking! **DevFortress is a Shopify Plus Partner** who just launched their store building app.[ Checkout the app here.](https://apps.shopify.com/ai-page-builder-1) \-\-\- **​​Who is this event for?** This event is suitable for all online sellers - whether you run a Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) brand on Shopify, sell on Amazon (FBA), Etsy, eBay, Walmart, or manage a store on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok.​ — **Event Highlights** **✨ Network in a Vibrant Setting** We’ve secured a dedicated section at at the venue just for our group. Enjoy meaningful conversations and great vibes while connecting with fellow entrepreneurs. We kindly ask that you support the venue by purchasing at least one drink or food item. **Share Your Story** Building a brand, product, or project? Looking for partners, feedback, or fresh ideas? This is your chance to introduce yourself and spark valuable connections in the ecommerce community. **Learn and Grow** Exchange insights on scaling, marketing, operations, and sales with fellow ecommerce founders. Many past attendees have walked away with partnerships, new clients, and fresh ideas - one conversation could be the start of something big. — **Dress code: Smart/Business casual** — Have questions or suggestions? ​Feel free to reach out to the organizers! ​We can’t wait to see you (again)! — *Notice of Photography* *​During the event, photos and videos may be taken for promotional purposes. By attending, you consent to being photographed and/or filmed. If you prefer not to appear in any media, please let one of the event organizers know.*

Breakfast with Notify Me!

Join Notify Me! for a relaxed breakfast the morning before DotDev 2026. Grab a great coffee, enjoy a tasty meal, and connect with fellow founders, operators, developers, and ecommerce professionals before the conference begins. No presentations. No sales pitches. Just good conversations, new connections, and an easy start to the week. Spots are limited, so please RSVP if you'd like to join us. Heads up on time zone: Meetup shows this in Pacific because our group is Vancouver based. The breakfast is in Toronto and runs 9:00 to 11:30 AM Eastern Time. Please go by Eastern, or the times on the banner.

🚀 Level Up Networking >>> Connect, Collaborate & Grow

Are you ready to expand your network, spark new opportunities, and connect with ambitious professionals in your community? Join us on Friday, July 17th from 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM at The Suya Spot for our monthly Level Up Networking Event — an evening designed to help you build meaningful relationships, exchange ideas, and discover new opportunities for personal and professional growth. Whether you're an entrepreneur, business owner, startup founder, professional, freelancer, student, or simply looking to connect with like-minded individuals, this event is for you! Why Attend? ✅ Meet local entrepreneurs, professionals, and business leaders ✅ Expand your circle and create valuable connections ✅ Discover collaboration, referral, and growth opportunities ✅ Share ideas, insights, and experiences in a supportive environment ✅ Gain inspiration and fresh perspectives to help you level up personally and professionally Unlike traditional networking events, Level Up Networking Night focuses on authentic conversations and genuine relationship-building in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. No pressure, no awkward sales pitches—just real people making real connections. Come solo or bring a friend, colleague, or business partner. You never know who you'll meet, what you'll learn, or where a single conversation may lead. 📅 DATE: Friday, July 17th, 2026 🕡 TIME: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM 📍 LOCATION: The Suya Spot, 1269 Weston Road, Toronto 🎟️ REGISTRATION: FREE (Advance registration recommended) 🍽️ PLEASE SUPPORT OUR HOST VENUE: Enjoy delicious food and drinks while networking and help support this amazing local restaurant! 🤝 Connect • Collaborate • Grow Bring your business cards, your positive energy, and an open mind. You never know who you'll meet or what opportunities may come from a single conversation! Space is limited—reserve your spot today on Eventbrite! 🚀✨ [https://LUNCCG0717.eventbrite.ca](https://lunccg0717.eventbrite.ca/)

Founders, Investors & Talent Networking Mixer | Toronto

Join founders, investors and tech talent at this curated **startup networking event in Toronto.** Meet ambitious builders, exchange ideas and discover new opportunities in a dynamic community environment. **RSVP: [Use this link](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/startup-networking-toronto-founders-investors-talent-mixer-tickets-1987710363204?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true)** **Please note that RSVP is managed via Eventbrite to control attendee lists — don’t ignore it to avoid issues with on-site payment.** **💡 Why This Event Is Different** Most networking events end with exchanged LinkedIn profiles. This one focuses on real conversations and real opportunities. We bring together founders, investors, engineers, operators and talent in a curated environment designed to create meaningful connections. Through interactive networking rounds, open conversations and pitch opportunities, participants can share challenges, exchange insights and build relationships that last beyond the event. **🤝 What to Expect** * **Interactive Networking** Structured networking rounds where participants briefly introduce themselves, share current challenges and explore collaboration opportunities. * **Talent Corner** Recruiters and hiring managers can briefly share open positions, while engineers and operators can introduce their skills and interests. * **Startup Conversations** Open discussions about fundraising, product development, growth and startup challenges. **👥 Who Should Attend** • Startup founders • Investors and angels • Engineers and builders • Operators and product managers • Recruiters and HR professionals • Sales and business development professionals • Job seekers interested in startups • Newcomers to the Toronto tech ecosystem

Pitch Night Toronto: A $1M Fireside + Founder Feedback Live

How does a founder go from a Founder Institute idea to a $1M raise? Find out live. Join Founder Institute Toronto for an evening built around one thing: the real mechanics of building and funding a startup. Toronto FI Leader Sunil Sharma sits with Vadym Sydorenko, Founder & CEO of SmartphoneKey — an FI Toronto graduate now raising a $1M round at a $10M valuation, with the first $200K already wired. In an unscripted fireside interview, they'll dig into the raise itself: how Vadym built investor conviction, what the deal actually looks like, the product traction behind it, and the lessons every founder in the room can use. In the second half, founders from the audience take the stage to pitch, and get direct, candid feedback. **❯ Who should Attend?** * Anyone who wants feedback from leading entrepreneurs * Anyone who has an early-stage startup and wants expert feedback * Anyone who has an idea for a startup or a tech company * Anyone who needs practice and expert advice on pitching **❯ Who Pitches?** * We will be selecting people from the audience to pitch, and will do as many as time allows. To prepare, work on your one sentence pitch at [https://fi.co/one-sentence-pitch](https://fi.co/one-sentence-pitch). ### Spectators are welcome! Even if you don't want to pitch, you are invited to register, hear startup ideas, and watch how the experts analyze and critique new businesses. **❯❯ This is an in-person event, so be sure to RSVP at [https://fi.co/e/395008/meetup](https://fi.co/e/395008/meetup) to secure your spot and receive further details.**

🤝 July Networking Mixer for GTA Business Owners & Entrepreneurs

🤝Join us for a casual mixer hosted by Toronto Event Hub, where business owners and entrepreneurs can connect, collaborate, and network over some boba!🧋 Surround yourself with likeminded business owners, founders, and entrepreneurs from across the GTA for an evening designed to spark real conversations — not just small talk. **Date:** Monday, July 20, 2026 **Time:** 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM **Venue:** Chatime Liberty Village **You must [buy your ticket here on Eventbrite to secure your spot](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/july-networking-mixer-for-gta-business-owners-entrepreneurs-tickets-1992561618439?aff=meetup)**[ ](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/july-networking-mixer-for-gta-business-owners-entrepreneurs-tickets-1992561618439?aff=meetup)\- an RSVP on Meetup does not count\. ✨ **Come see why [Toronto Event Hub](https://torontoeventhub.com/) networking events are rated one of the best in Toronto!** Check our events at [Toronto Event Hub](https://www.torontoeventhub.com/).

AI & Tech Networking Event in Toronto by Ascent Valley

Join founders, investors and tech talent at this curated **startup networking event in Toronto.** Meet ambitious builders, exchange ideas and discover new opportunities in a dynamic community environment. **RSVP: [Use this link](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/startup-pitch-themed-networking-toronto-unlock-your-idea-tickets-1991469166887?aff=oddtdtcreator)** **Please note that RSVP is managed via Eventbrite to control attendee lists — don’t ignore it to avoid issues with on-site payment.** Most of us are in the same loop. You have an idea. You workshop it with ChatGPT, read another newsletter, tell three friends who don't quite get it. The idea stays in your head. Or worse — it never gets the kind of pushback that would have made it sharper. Research on creative work is clear: people who articulate their idea to like-minded peers begin to understand it deeper. Quality feedback isn't validation — it's the thing that changes how you see your own work. We mix the room on purpose. Different industries see the same process from different angles — that's where value compounds. We ask for your LinkedIn in registration so we can group you with the right people, not random tables. **How the evening runs (3 stages)** **Stage 1 — Themed Networking** You vote on the night's themes through the registration form (Fundraising, HR, GTM, Product, Pricing, Hiring — whichever wins the room). We group you by background. Each group's representative shares the conversation's main takeaway on stage. Featured contributors get a Featured Founder spotlight on ascentvalley.com — that's how the conversation scales across the ecosystem. **Stage 2 — Pitches** 5 curated startups present their idea for live feedback and investor introductions. After the event, we add them to our private founder database and route their application to the right investors inside the Ascent Valley network. **Stage 3 — Chill & Network** The structured part wraps. The bar stays open. The connections you started solidify here — most of our repeat attendees say this is where the real value lands. **Who's in the room** * Accelerator representatives — talent and dealflow scouts from Toronto-based and EU-wide programs * Investors — angels, fund representatives, scouts from syndicates * Founders, Pre-seed to Series A — building across SaaS, AI, ClimateTech, FinTech, ConsumerTech * Operators — PMs, engineering leads, GTM leaders from scaling startups * Entrepreneurs across industries — fresh perspective is the point * Founders traveling through Toronto — from Tel Aviv, Berlin, London, NYC, Lisbon nodes * Hiring leads from companies actively scaling teams **About Ascent Valley** Ascent Valley is a 3-layer ecosystem: Community, DealFlow, Events. Our mission is to break local boundaries and enable cross-region growth through real connection between founders, operators, and investors. **Philosophy: [IDEA → PROCESS → RESULT.](https://ascentvalley.com "https://ascentvalley.com")**