EVENT
Black Innovation Summit 2025
A one-day event where tech’s brightest minds ignite change, showcasing strategies for Black entrepreneurs to shine on the global stage.
October 30, 2025
Hosted by Scotiabank
What's in store.
The 2025 Black Innovation Summit, hosted by Scotiabank, is back on October 30, 2025. This year’s theme, Black Means Business, shines a spotlight on the brilliance, innovation, and economic impact of Black entrepreneurs from coast to coast. It reinforces a powerful truth: investing in Black founders isn’t just the right thing to do — it’s a strategic move that drives economic growth.
At the centre of this year’s event is a high-stakes pitch competition, where 10 Black founders will take the stage to compete for over $300,000+ in investments and grants.
Think big. Build bold. Pitch applications are now open — with more details to come.
Pitch for $300K+ in investments & grants.
We’re calling on Canada’s most promising Black tech founders to step onto the national stage and showcase bold ideas at this year’s Summit.
Bring your vision, amplify your story, and connect with industry leaders and community allies driving change.
Application Deadline: August 22, 2025
Pitch advisory sessions
The top 25 finalists will receive two sessions to
refine their pitch with expert guidance.
Exclusive PR opportunities
Gain visibility through DMZ’s social channels, partner networks and press, showcasing your startup to investors, industry leaders, and the tech ecosystem.
Pitch live for investments and grants
The top finalists will pitch live at the Summit for a
chance to win over $300K in investments and grants.
Who should apply?
Here are some factors we look for in Black Innovation Summit pitch applicants:
Black founder • A Black founder or co-founder leading the business.
Technology business • Leveraging a technology to solve a real problem.
Open to travel • Founder must be able to pitch in person in Toronto.
Strong team • Coachable, driven, and collaborative leadership.
Growth potential • Positioned to become a venture-backable startup.
Building but not ready to pitch? Your application still counts. All submissions will be reviewed for our Validation Program for early-stage Black founders.
DMZ’s Black Innovation Summit opened doors for Cleanster—offering mentorship, networking, and pitch support. It helped me sharpen both the business and how I present it to the world.
Gloria Oppong
Co-Founder & CEO, Cleanster
Our partners.
Meet the champions behind this year’s Black Innovation Summit.
Presenting Partner
Contributing partners
Community partners
Frequently asked questions.
The pitch competition is for Black tech founders with a functional MVP and business dedicated to solving a compelling problem using innovative technology. Founders must apply and be available to attend the Summit in person in downtown Toronto. Applications are evaluated based on the following criteria:
- Product stage
- Scalability
- Leadership proficiency
- Market assessment
- Technological capabilities
- Traction
Who should apply?
- Black founder: A Black founder or co-founder leading the business
- Technology business: Leveraging technology to solve a real problem
- Open to travel: Founder must be able to pitch in person in Toronto
- Strong team: Coachable, driven and collaborative leadership
- Growth potential: Positioned to become a venture-backable startup
Investors who are interested in participating in the Black Innovation Summit should reach out to Annie Long at annie.long@torontomu.ca.
The Steering Committee is comprised of industry leaders from a variety of verticals within business and technology. Their role is to ensure a wide range of perspectives, experiences and ideas to reduce bias in event planning and facilitate an equitable review process of pitch finalists. The Committee’s feedback and insights are shared with DMZ for consideration. For any additional information, please reach out to dmz@torontomu.ca.
Black entrepreneurs bring incredible innovation and talent to the startup world, yet they often encounter systemic barriers to resources, funding, and representation. DMZ’s Black Innovation Programs (BIP) bridge the opportunity gap for Black-owned tech startups, fostering their growth and success. Learn more about the benefits Black entrepreneurs receive at DMZ.
Yes. All pitch competition applicants will also be considered for DMZ’s Validation-focused incubation program built to support early-stage Black founders with mentorship, traction-building resources, and community support.
DMZ’s Black Innovation Summit will take place on October 30, 2025, and will incorporate a high-stakes pitch competition. Ten Black founders will take the stage to compete for over $300,000 in investments and grants. The event will also include inspiring conversations with high-profile speakers and celebrate excellence through the Black Entrepreneur of the Year Award and the Black Youth Entrepreneurship Award, which recognizes three rising young founders with a cash prize.