Editorial portrait illustrating this conversationAll conversations

THE CONVERSATIONS · 03

The people behind the support.

Meet the people and organizations helping entrepreneurs find their footing, build relationships and move forward.

THE STARTUPFEST CONVERSATIONS

The conversations

Different paths. Shared ambition.
Explore entrepreneur stories and meet the people behind the support.

3 conversations

MEET THE ECOSYSTEM

The people behind the support

Meet the people helping entrepreneurs move forward — through community, guidance, funding and connections.

THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE SUPPORT

“You have to be intensely curious”

Phil G. Joseph

Co-founder · Venture Capital Associate

Rep Matters · Real Ventures

Rep Matters supports Black entrepreneurs in technology and venture capital. Through events, content and community initiatives, it creates opportunities to learn, build meaningful connections and access capital—helping founders move their businesses forward.

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THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE SUPPORT

“La meilleure chose pour un entrepreneur, c’est d’aller chercher le maximum de conseils”

Lynn McDonald

Regional Director, Montréal

Evol

Evol provides business loans and guidance to entrepreneurs across Québec. It supports businesses seeking to make a positive impact, with the goal of contributing to a fairer, more inclusive and sustainable economy.

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THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE SUPPORT

“Ça me donne le goût de bâtir quelque chose de moi-même”

Omar Jamal

Venture Analyst

Creative Destruction Lab – Montréal

Creative Destruction Lab – Montréal, based at HEC Montréal, supports science- and technology-based startups through an objectives-based program and a network of experienced mentors. It helps founders develop and scale ventures in areas including artificial intelligence and supply chains.

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A PLACE TO START

Helpful resources

Explore resources from the organizations that provide them. Availability and eligibility are described on their websites.

4 resources · Canada-wide resources remain visible for every region.

STORIES & CONNECTIONS

A little perspective.
A few new connections.

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