How to Pitch like a Dragon

🎧 NEW EPISODE: FOUNDER JOURNEY FT. MICHAEL HYATT

This might just be our most requested episode so far…

On today’s episode of the Founder Journey, guest host Marsha Druker (Fuck Up Nights), joined Alexandra Reilly (TechTO Host) to sit down with a very familiar face in tech.

Michael Hyatt, has co-founded two tech companies that were each acquired for over $1 billion, is an active investor and a founding partner at the Rotman School of Management’s prestigious Creative Destruction Lab, a former Dragon on CBC’s Next Gen Den, just to name a few. Most importantly, he’s an extremely down-to-earth-guy.

In this episode, Michael gets candid about his very unique reason for wanting to create success, crucial insights for any builder looking to stand out, and even pulls back the curtain on his time as a "Dragon".

With many powerful moments throughout the talk, here’s one in particular we really loved:

This episode is packed with actionable advice and lessons from a true legend. Be sure to listen to the entire talk, wherever you get your podcasts and news.

Stay tuned and stay subscribed to the series. A brand new episode drops in 2 weeks

 ✨ SPEAKER SPOTLIGHT: RACHEL ZIMMER

Rachel Zimmer, Founder and CEO of Simple Ventures takes the stage at our upcoming Together event on October 6, to cover something very important.

After Simple Ventures recent news of a $15m fundraise, we knew we needed Rachel on our stage to weigh in on the topic of brain drain.

The Canadian tech community is at a crossroads. As domestic entrepreneurship declines and top-tier talent is tempted by opportunities abroad, the conversation around brain drain has never been more urgent.

In an in-depth fireside chat, Rachel will discuss exactly this, and why Simple Ventures has prioritized keeping our entrepreneurs and home-grown talent in Canada.

So, why should you attend?

Because this isn't your average chat. 

You’ll discover:

• Why Canada is the ultimate launchpad for your next big idea.

• The playbook for building new companies and stopping brain drain in its tracks.

• Your network, revolutionized: strategies for turning connections into real-world impact.

• Beyond the buzzwords: a frank discussion on the economic and cultural factors that will define the future of Canadian tech.

• From builder to venture capitalist: real-life lessons on scaling success.

This is your chance to be part of a critical conversation about the future of Canadian tech.

🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTS

• COMING UP! Startup Open House @ Elevate Festival presented by TechTO: Thursday, October 9 at 3:00pm — Join forces with companies like Wattpad, Clio, Neobanc and more, showcasing their companies, spaces and teams to the ecosystem — REGISTER YOUR STARTUP OR JUST VISIT

• Elevate Festival After Party presented by TechTO and TiE Toronto: Thursday, October 9 at 7:00pm - REGISTER HERE

  P.S. We're thrilled to be an official Community Partner of Elevate Festival 2025 (October 7-9). Use coupon code TECHTOELEVATE to save 20% off your ticket HERE 
  

• TechTO is in Montreal: October 20-24 — Featuring a Venture Showcase, Funding Stage, 2 Market Overviews and lots of chances to network with the Montreal tech community — REGISTER HERE
  

• Together Toronto: Monday, November 3 at 6:00pm — EARLY BIRDS REGISTER HERE
  

• SaaS North in Ottawa: Wednesday, November 5 & Thursday, November 6 — REGISTER HERE (save +35% off regular price using our link)
  

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

📘 QUICK READS

Here’s our top picks for interesting reads:

• Building AI products in the probabilistic era

• 28 one slide pitch decks that raised millions

• 30 VC truths to know as a Founder

🔥 PARTNER PERKS

Our Directory helps you find our community’s favourite service providers and businesses that we stand behind. Check out a few perks from our partners:

• Need swag for your startup or company? Check out this amazing offer from Wayo for 10% off your first order — Claim the offer here
  

• Bench, supporting your small business bookkeeping needs, is offering 30% off your first 3-months — Claim the offer here