Pitch with a Twist will bring women entrepreneurs to the forefront in a competition designed to spotlight innovation and break down barriers during International Women’s Month.
Finalists will present their startups through interactive booths, giving judges and attendees the chance to engage directly with each venture. A panel of women identifying judges will evaluate the companies, while featured speakers share insights from their own entrepreneurial journeys.
Blending competition with community, the event offers a platform for diverse founders to showcase their ideas, connect with industry leaders, and celebrate the growing impact of women in the innovation economy.
Timeline
Applications open: January 22nd
Applications closed: February 23rd
Event: March 4th, 2026 5:30pm – 7:30 pm
Eligibility Criteria
Must have a self-identified woman founder or co-founder.
Have an idea or an early-stage start-up that aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Submission to uphold equity and inclusion practices, which includes “creat[ing] a climate of understanding and mutual respect for the dignity and worth of each person”, in keeping with the Ontario Human Rights Code.
Registrants must be a student or alumni of the University of Toronto; OR participants of any of the U of T CLA/Incubator programs.
Product or service idea must not be in the market (pre-launch)
Must be incorporated in Canada
Less than $25k in investments (Angels, VCs, grants) as of February 17th, 2026
Less than $50k in revenue earned as of February 17th, 2026
All finalists must be able to:
Available to showcase the venture at a booth to judges for the duration of the event
U of T students and alumni are strongly encouraged to register and complete the free UTE IP Education Program – Level 1 modules (~2 hours) before the competition.
Important Dates: