What is TiEQuest ?
TiEQuest is a 10-week accelerator and pitch competition designed to help Canadian startups go further, faster.
We help founders sharpen product-market fit, accelerate growth, and prepare for global scale. Through TiE’s powerful international network, startups gain direct exposure to top-tier investors in Canada, Silicon Valley, Boston, New York, and India.
At TiEQuest, you don’t just compete—you build. Along the way, you’ll access capital, mentorship, and markets while connecting with leaders who have scaled successful companies worldwide.
Who Can Apply?
At TiE Toronto, we believe in more than just businesses; we believe in creating legacies. Over the past 20 years, TiEQuest has helped hundreds of startups find investors, markets, and experts. In its 21st year TiEQuest goes one step beyond – helping founders achieve product-market fit (PMF) faster. Entrepreneurs that show the best progress during the program win the competition and take home cash prizes, investments, and a network of well-wishers to rely upon.
Program Structure
Phase 1 – Workshops & Mentorship
All selected startups join interactive workshops led by successful founders, investors, and ecosystem partners. Topics include:
- Customer discovery & product validation
- Go-to-market strategies
- Business planning
- Fundraising
Storytelling & pitch delivery
Founders are also matched with expert mentors for one-on-one feedback.
Phase 2 – Elevator Pitch Round
Selected companies present their elevator pitch to a panel of judges. The most promising startups advance, gaining:
- Intensive one-on-one mentoring
- Refinement of market positioning
Validation of problem–solution fit
Each entrepreneur pitches again after this focused mentoring round.
Phase 3 – Business Plan Round
Advancing startups receive personalized coaching on critical areas of their business to accelerate progress toward product-market fit.
- Deep-dive mentoring tailored to your company’s needs
- A full pitch to the judging panel
- Selection of the top companies to move forward
From this round, 3 finalists per stream are chosen to compete in the Finals.
Phase 4 – The Finals at TiEQuest Summit 2026
The finalists take the stage at TiEQuest Summit 2026, pitching live to an audience of investors.
- Showcase your company at Canada’s premier startup summit
- Compete for cash prizes and investor attention
Join an elite community of TiEQuest alumni scaling globally
If you’re a Canadian founder with a big vision, TiEQuest 2026 is your launchpad to global growth
Prizes For The Winners
Why Apply?
TiEQuest 2026 is more than a competition—it’s a launchpad for ambitious founders. Whether you’re validating your idea, refining your pitch, or scaling globally, this is your chance to gain exposure, mentorship, funding opportunities, and connections to investors who can help scale your vision.
Here’s what you gain by joining:
- Idea Validation & Product-Market Fit : Put your business model, market sizing, and competitive edge to the test through expert-led workshops and one-on-one mentorship. Get actionable insights to accelerate your path to PMF.
- Sales & Marketing Mastery: Unlock tailored coaching for B2B sales or breakthrough marketing experiments for Consumer/SMB growth strategies.
- Pitch like a Pro: Perfect your storytelling and delivery to captivate investors, partners, and customers
- Access to an Exclusive Network : Connect with investors, mentors, and entrepreneurs across Canada, Silicon Valley, Boston, New York, and India through TiE’s global network.
- Visibility & Recognition : Gain exposure to leading investors, mentors, and industry leaders while positioning your company among Canada’s most promising startups.
- Special Opportunities for Top Performers
- Top 6 Finalists: Represent Canada at TiE Silicon Valley’s TiE 50, get the chance to be featured on Meet The Drapers, and join TiECon 2026.
- Top 6 Winners: Unlock further investment opportunities through the TiE Global Network
- Membership & Community : All participants receive a complimentary 1-year TiE Toronto & TiE Global Associated Charter Membership (valued at $500), opening doors to ongoing mentorship, events, and investor networks worldwide.From validation to global visibility, TiEQuest 2026 sets the stage for your startup’s breakthrough
TiEQuest Success Stories
TiEQuest Previous Speakers & Mentors
Michelle Romanow
Executive Chairman, Clearco
Alex Norman
Partner, N49P
Janet Bannister
Partner, Staircase Ventures
Joanna Griffiths
CEO, Knix
Prashant Matta
Partner, Panache Ventures
Jack Newton
CEO, Clio
TiEQuest Summit 2026 Sponsors
We are grateful to our sponsors whose support has made this event possible.
Presenting Sponsors
Community Sponsors
TiEQuest 2026 : Accelerate Your Business To Success
Elevate your entrepreneurial journey with TiE Toronto’s 20th Annual Business Acceleration and Venture Program.
TiEQuest 2026 Finals and Gala
Dates to be announced
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is eligible to apply for TiEQuest?
TiEQuest welcomes entrepreneurs from various sectors. The Med-Tech Stream focuses on innovative solutions in the medical and healthcare industries.
How does TiEQuest support entrepreneurs beyond the competition?
TiEQuest is more than a competition; it’s a comprehensive program offering education, mentoring, funding, networking, and incubation to propel the businesses forward.
What are the key features of TiEQuest?
TiEQuest offers transformative advancement, and organizational independence, and acts as a magnet for top-tier mentors and judges.
How do I choose between the Med-Tech Stream and the General Stream?
If your business is focused on healthcare, the Med-Tech Stream is ideal. The General Stream welcomes entrepreneurs from diverse sectors.
What benefits do participants receive?
Participants gain exposure, networking opportunities, constructive feedback, mentorship, and recognition for their entrepreneurial endeavors.
How can I apply for TiEQuest?
Click on the ‘Apply Now’ button, fill in the application form, and embark on your TiEQuest journey.
Can I apply if my startup is in the early stages?
Absolutely! TiEQuest is designed to support businesses at various stages, including those in the early phases of development.
What happens after the competition?
Winners get access to a network of investors, opportunities to participate in global events, and ongoing support from TiE Toronto.