5 Things Not to Miss at the 2024 Small Business Forum in Toronto

The Small Business Forum returns to Toronto this month. This year’s theme is “Taste of Success: Navigating the World of Food Business.” The event takes place at Meridian Hall on October 30, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Events will be happening on all three levels of the building. The forum is a great opportunity for small business professionals in the food industry and B2B service providers to network and learn more about the industry. To help you make the most of it, here’s a list of what we’re most excited for on the agenda!

1. Pitch Competition: Toronto’s Next Great Packaged Food Business

Taking place at 1:20pm on the main level, six founders of consumer-packaged goods (CPG) businesses in Toronto will pitch their business ideas in front of an expert jury. Prizes include grant funding, a booth at the 2025 Restaurants Canada Show, and more. Winners will be announced at 3:45pm. Be sure to check out the contest to see who the next big name in CPG will be!

2. Public Markets x marketcityTO

Attend this event at 2:45pm on the main level to learn about marketcityTO. The initiative helping small businesses connect with public markets in Toronto. There are over 130 diverse markets in neighborhoods across the city and they’re on track to create the first Toronto Public Markets Action Plan by 2025. Now is the time to learn about the powerful role that public markets play in the city’s small business ecosystem!

3. Mentoring Sessions

On the lower level you’ll find industry experts ready to answer all your questions about a wide range of topics. All day you’ll have the opportunity to ask about all aspects of the food business journey. Come prepared to learn about everything from financing to green practices, DineSafe standards to entrepreneurial mental health, and so much more.

4. Small Business Trade Show

Throughout the day, a trade show will take place on the main & mezzanine levels. You’ll have the opportunity to speak with representatives from all walks of the food industry. Marketing, distribution, suppliers, incubators, accelerators, and government support programs will be featured.

5. Keynote & Guest Speakers

All throughout the day, speakers will take the stage on the main level to share industry insights, trends, and more. This year’s keynote speaker is Tara Tomulka, founder of Rawcology, a family-owned snack food brand sold at more than 1500 locations. Other guests appearing throughout the day will include Richa Gupta, Vice-President of the Canadian Food Innovation Network, Hon. Nina Tangri, Associate Minister of Small Business, Marina Queirolo, Founder of marketcityTO, and many more!

You can learn more about Toronto’s Small Business Forum, register for your free attendance ticket, or request a booth to showcase your food products or service, on the City of Toronto official website.