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Pitch Competition 2026

Spotlighting Neurodiverse Innovation

Canada's international pitch competition for founders building products, services, and technologies that improve outcomes for physical, mental, neurological and developmental disabilities.

Open to any founder. The eligibility criterion is the innovation — not the founder's background.

Abstract artwork of a profile silhouette, maple leaf, and layered watercolor shapes for Inclusive Innovators.

Why it matters

An international platform for inclusive innovation.

Inclusive Innovators brings founders, investors, government, sponsors, exhibitors, and ecosystem partners together through a pitch-first international circuit.

3

Canadian city stops

50+

Neurodiverse innovators

Partners

Partners and patronage.

Inclusive Innovators is supported by FICI, IFIA, Meeraki Global, Aragon Group, and Canada Startup Association across event organization, patronage, platform experience, and ecosystem support.

The First Institute of Canadian Inventors (FICI)

Event organizer and Canadian inventor ecosystem partner.

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International Federation of Inventors' Associations (IFIA)

Under Patronage of IFIA

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Meeraki Global

Strategic partner supporting the international platform experience.

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Aragon Group

Canadian partner supporting the city circuit and ecosystem presence.

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Canada Startup Association

Founder community and Canadian startup ecosystem partner.

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Three-city circuit

Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary.

A three-city Canadian circuit with clear dates, city context, and direct participation pathways.

21 Sept 2026

Toronto

Mississauga Convention Centre, Ontario

Co-located with
Opening pitch showcase and international ecosystem reception.

TBA

Vancouver

British Columbia innovation circuit

West Coast founders, investors, and partner matchmaking.

TBA

Calgary

Prairie innovation circuit

Final circuit stop with awards and international introductions.

Programme snapshot

Calm, commercial, and built for useful introductions.

The programme is organized around exhibition, matchmaking, jury evaluation, and awards so participants can understand the opportunity quickly and act with confidence.

Exhibition

A focused showcase floor with calm navigation, short descriptions, and product-first storytelling.

Matchmaking

Curated founder, investor, sponsor, and partner introductions designed for useful follow-up.

Jury

All participating inventions and startups will be evaluated by a panel of jurors based on defined judging criteria. Awards and recognitions will be presented to selected participants at the end of the event.

Awards

Recognition for practical innovations, strong outcomes, and scalable inclusive design.