How it started
Back in 2014, Alex Norman and Jason Goldlist organized an event for people interested in Toronto’s growing tech ecosystem. They ordered some pizza, picked up some drinks, and invited some guests to exchange stories. More than 100 people showed up to celebrate the local tech community. At the end of the night, enthusiastic participants asked “When is the NEXT event?” TechTO was born.
What we do
We support entrepreneurs and innovators at all stages of their careers and businesses. We host events, both in person and online. We help people develop new skills. We connect people and expand networks. We build relationships and form partnerships. We speak with the media. We advocate for the tech sector. We meet with governments and policymakers. In short, we do whatever it takes to support Canada’s tech community.
Our mission
TechTO aspires to build a community that makes Canada the best place in the world to start or scale a technology company. To make that vision a reality, we focus on three broad goals: improving access to the innovation economy, sharing strategies to accelerate professional success, and promoting the tech community’s contributions to society. Plus, we like to make people laugh.
Our values
Inclusive participation.
Everyone is welcome to join the TechTO community, regardless of their background, experience, or journey. We treat people like individuals. We learn to say everyone’s name. We share the microphone.
Collective success.
Some of the world’s other tech clusters developed reputations for divisive competitiveness. We believe in the spirit of “winning, together.” We celebrate each other’s achievements. We give standing ovations.
Meet, Learn, Grow.
There’s always another person to meet, another idea to consider, and another skill to master. We coach people to reach their individual goals. We encourage experienced leaders to give back to the community.