Veronica Sheppard
The entrepreneurial community in Toronto has a lot going on right now.
From celebrating Black History Month to addressing the climate crisis and understanding mental health needs, both corporates and startups are coming together to build more socially-conscious models.
Here are the events to attend this month:
Lemonade: A Showcase of Creative Innovation in a Time of Crisis
When is it: February 4, 4:30 – 5:30 PM
Why you should attend: This virtual showcase of creative talent focuses on three main themes: pivots, trendspotting and problem solving. See entrepreneur panels, network with industry up-and-comers and browse their online gallery featuring works from local makers and creators from Ryerson’s Creative Innovation Studio.
Cost to attend: Registration is free.
From Black History to Black Future
When is it: February 4, 6:30 – 8:00 PM
Why you should attend: Hosted by the Black Professionals Tech Network, this evening will kick-off Black History Month with expert-led panel discussions, networking opportunities and a keynote presentation by Colleen Ward, the VP of Technology Solutions at TD Bank.
Cost to attend: Registration is free.
How and When to Build Your Team
When is it: February 8, 5:00 – 7:00 PM
Why you should attend: Join the RBC Launchpad Music Entrepreneurship Program to learn the basics of building a team, assessing prospective candidates and where to find the right talent for your newly expanding team.
Cost to attend: General admission is $28.25; free for members.
Mission from MaRS: Climate Impact Challenge Kick-off
When is it: February 8, 5:00 P– 7:00 PM
Why you should attend: Mission from MaRS is a newly launched pan-Canadian climate-impact challenge meant to accelerate the adoption of homegrown climate technologies, create thousands of jobs and, ultimately, turn the climate crisis on its head. Attend the kick-off event to learn more about the program and get your questions answered while hearing about some of today’s most pressing climate issues.
Cost to attend: Registration is free.
Founder Fundamentals – Mental Health for Founders
When is it: February 11, 6:00 – 8:00 PM
Why you should attend: YSpace, York University’s innovation hub, is partnering with the Markham Small Business Centre to host an 11-week educational program called Founders Fundamentals. In this session, learn about what mental health looks like in the life of an entrepreneur, tactics for navigating stress and finding relevant support.
Cost to attend: Registration is free.
How an Online Store Can Boost Your Business
When is it: February 18, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Why you should attend: Are you struggling to convert your business online during COVID-19? Ontario businesses can sign up for free services to help make the transition easier – learn more about ShopHERE and start building your online presence with professional help.
Cost to attend: Registration is free.
Smash Startup Conference
When is it: February 18, 8:00 – 9:00 PM
Why you should attend: Learn the ins-and-outs of startup essentials including operations, marketing and more in this hour-long session for early-stage startups. Hosted by FoundersBeta, this conference aims to connect a global entrepreneurship community online through text-based chat and networking sessions.
Cost to attend: General admission is $32.84.
Self-Employment as a Career Option
When is it: February 19, 12:00 – 1:00 PM
Why you should attend: Get expert advice from Dragons Den and Shark Tank veteran Dr. Sean Wise on making the move to full-time entrepreneurship as a career path. Having seen thousands of pitches and worked with startups globally, Dr. Wise’s knowledge and experience can help early-stage startups set themselves up for success.
Cost to attend: Registration is free.
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