From Struggling to Scaling: The Secret to Product-Market Fit

If you're building in Canada and wondering whether YC is worth it, you need to watch this one.

Ryan Marien (Co-Founder, BioRender, YC W18) shares why Bay Area companies ship faster, and what it takes for Canadian founders to compete globally. No sugar-coating. Just the real insights most people won't tell you.

He breaks down how BioRender navigated YC as a SaaS company, built momentum through disciplined execution, and scaled without losing their identity. This is the kind of talk founders bookmark, rewatch with their co-founders, and reference when making hard decisions about where to build and how to scale.

If you watch one TechTO talk this week, make it this one.

Watch the full conversation on our YouTube @TechTOorg - and tell us in the comments: are you applying to YC, or building from Canada?

On Thursday, February 19th, we're bringing back Together Vancouver. This is the kind of evening that reminds us why we do what we do.

Whether you're wrestling with your first hire, figuring out product-market fit, or just trying to find your people in Vancouver's tech scene, this is your night.

NEXT BIG GIGS

A few roles across Canadian tech worth your attention this week:

Tech Financial Advisor at MiWorld Technologies (Remote/Toronto, Contract)
An eCommerce startup needs help revising their business plan and building financial projections for investors. You'll create the financial model from agreed assumptions. Great for a finance professional with tech credentials who can turn strategy into investor-ready numbers.

Senior Front-End Specialist at Quartermaster Inc. (Toronto/Hybrid, $150k-$175k)
Build Toronto's home management platform connecting homeowners with local Pros. You'll own UI implementations across web and mobile using React and React Native. Lead the design system and mentor junior engineers. Perfect for someone with 6+ years of front-end experience who wants to solve hard problems for real neighborhood impact.

Events Operations Manager at TechTO (Toronto, Full-time)
Own the planning and execution of 70+ annual events for Canada's tech community. You'll manage logistics, vendors, sponsors, and on-site coordination. Everything from monthly meetups to quarterly dinners to the annual retreat. Built for someone with 3-5 years of event experience who thrives under pressure and wants to shape Canada's tech ecosystem.

Looking to hire or get hired? Check out the TechTO Job Board to see 1,000+ opportunities and learn how to get your companies jobs featured.

Don’t forget to lock in your year of TechTO! Subscribe to our full events calendar

🎤 Know Someone Who Should Be on the TechTO Stage?

We’re always looking to spotlight founders, operators, and builders with powerful stories; the kind that inspire, teach, and move the Canadian tech community forward.

If you know someone whose journey deserves the mic - from early stumbles to breakout momentum - we want to hear from you.

Help us bring fresh voices and new perspectives to future TechTO events and podcasts.

If you’re looking for more ways to connect with the tech world, our TechTO Membership is a great way to interact with others building in the space.

Our membership program already supports hundreds of entrepreneurs and professionals building the next best companies in Canadian tech. Take advantage of exclusive members-only events, and opportunities to meet those who will inspire your next big idea. Learn more about our Membership options here.