5 Events for Toronto Business Leaders & Innovators this Fall

As Q4 approaches, what better time is there to position yourself for success in 2025? Check out this list of upcoming business conferences and events in Toronto aimed at innovators, industry leaders, investors, emerging startups, and more.

Future Festival World Summit

Trend Hunter’s Future Festival is an event focused on AI and innovation, which is aimed at Managers, Directors, VPs, and C-Level execs from all industries. Hear from keynote Jeremy Gutsche, CEO of Trend Hunter, and guest speakers from companies like Google and Pizza. Attend a networking event hosted at the TIFF Lightbox rooftop, discover the trends of tomorrow, and attend workshops and Q&As on the growing role of AI in a range of industries. Learn more at the Future Festival website.

Future Festival takes place on October 30, 2024 at TIFF Lightbox, 350 King St W, Toronto.

Elevate Festival

Elevate Festival prides itself on being “the conduit for bringing together iconic tech leaders, emerging startups, global investors, policymakers, and international media to shine a spotlight on Canadian innovation.” This year’s conference will include 9+ content tracks across multiple stages, masterclasses on topics ranging from AI to finance to people management. Let’s not forget the pitch showcases, including companies from UofT and Toronto’s DMZ. Elevate will also shine a light on startups and women in tech with dedicated stages and curated lounges for networking, workshops, and mentoring opportunities. Learn more at the Elevate Festival website.

Elevate Festival takes place from October 1-3, 2024, at two locations: Meridian Hall, 1 Front St E, Toronto, ON, and St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts, 26 Front St E, Toronto.

Startup Investor Drinks & Elevate After Party

Following Elevate, don’t miss the hottest after party, hosted by TorontoStarts and Workhaus. This event is the perfect opportunity to unwind, connect, and network with fellow entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts while enjoying delicious pizza and an open bar of craft beer and wine. Sign up and grab the mic to share your vision, innovations, and opportunities with the vibrant crowd in a 20-second open pitch. This is your chance to extend the Elevate Conference experience and forge valuable connections in a relaxed and vibrant setting. Tickets are free with registration for Elevate Conference Pass holders and Workhaus members. Learn more at the TorontoStarts website.

Startup Investor Drinks takes October 3, 2024, at 30 Wellington St W, 5th Floor, Toronto, ON.

Small Business Forum

The Small Business Forum is “the City of Toronto’s free full-day signature in-person event to support small businesses in Toronto.” This year’s theme is “Taste of Success: Navigating the World of Food Business”. The event will feature keynote and guest speakers, including a to be named founder of one of Toronto’s leading food brands. The event will also include speed mentoring sessions, a pitch contest, a tradeshow, and more! It promises to be the perfect networking opportunity for small business owners, entrepreneurs, and B2Bs in the food industry. Learn more at the City of Toronto website.

The Small Business Forum takes place October 30, 2024 at Meridian Hall, 1 Front St E, Toronto.

Small Business Summit

The Small Business Summit is an event dedicated to “empowering small and medium-sized businesses across Canada through innovative digital transformation strategies, fostering inclusion, and building adaptability.” Presented by CandianSME and Amazon Business, the event will feature keynote sessions, panel discussions, workshops and more. This years theme is “Fueling Canadian SMBs with Digital Transformation, Inclusion, and Adaptability.” This will be an excellent opportunity for networking, developing strategies, and refining skills that will empower your business to succeed. Learn more at the Canadian SME Summit website.

Small Business Summit takes place October 24, 2024 at Metro Toronto Convention Centre, 255 Front St W, Toronto.

October is shaping up to be a vibrant month for business events in Toronto. From networking opportunities to workshops, there are plenty of chances for entrepreneurs and professionals to connect, learn, and grow. Whether you’re looking to expand your network or sharpen your skills, these events offer invaluable resources to help your business thrive in the city’s dynamic market.