About the Startup Canada Equal Slice Program

What is it?

Startup Canada and Pizza Hut have joined forces to empower entrepreneurs by providing access to funding, educational webinars, and business resources that help break down systemic barriers. With the belief that everyone deserves an equal opportunity to succeed, the Startup Canada Equal Slice Program offers pitch competitions, educational support, and tailored business tools to help entrepreneurs grow and scale their ventures.

Through this exciting three-year partnership with Pizza Hut, we will provide $300,000 in cash grants to underserved Canadian entrepreneurs! The program will expand its impact by hosting two national Pitch Competitions per year, offering expert-led webinars, and powering the Business Owner’s Toolbox—a vital hub of educational resources, templates, and guides to support entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey.

What can you expect?

Throughout the year, the Startup Canada Equal Slice Program, in partnership with Pizza Hut, will host a series of high-impact events, webinars, and pitch competitions designed to empower diverse entrepreneurs across Canada.

Here’s what’s coming in 2025:

Two Pitch Competitions

Compete for a chance to win from a $100,000 cash grant pool, gain expert feedback, and showcase your business to industry leaders, to help your business grow.

Opportunities at Startup Canada Tour Stops

Connect, learn and engage with fellow founders, industry experts, and ecosystem partners to build valuable relationships and gain insights.

Four Expert-Led Webinars

Learn essential skills, from perfecting your pitch to protecting your intellectual property, designed specifically for entrepreneurs.

Updates to Startup Canada’s Business Owner’s Toolbox

Access perfectly curated resources at any time to help you start, grow, and scale your business.

Two pitch competitions in 2025:

Equal Slice Pitch Competitions

The Startup Canada Equal Slice Pitch Competitions offer early stage, entrepreneurs the chance to showcase their businesses, receive expert feedback, and compete for $100,000 in cash grants to help further develop their businesses. * Applications open from April 3 (spots are limited, applications will close when spots are filled)

In-Person Pitch Competition

Toronto, June 10, 2025

Register Now

Virtual Pitch Competition

October 7, 2025

Register Now

Webinars

Knowledge is power. The Startup Canada Equal Slice Program will offer four expert-led webinars that are created to help entrepreneurs develop crucial business skills, enhance their current business, and navigate challenges.

Learn how to craft a compelling pitch that resonates with investors and stakeholders, while navigating the unique challenges faced by entrepreneurs from systematically excluded communities. This webinar will provide practical strategies and insights to help you confidently present your vision and secure crucial support.
Date: Wednesday, May 7, 2025
Time: 9 – 10:30 AM PT | 12 – 1:30 PM ET
More information & registration: https://lu.ma/uoui09a7 

Understand the importance of intellectual property (IP) and learn how to safeguard your innovative ideas and creations. This webinar will cover essential IP concepts, including trademarks, copyrights, and patents, with specific guidance for entrepreneurs from equity-seeking groups in Canada.
Date: Tuesday, June 17, 2025
Time: 9 – 10:30 AM PT | 12 – 1:30 PM ET
More information & registration: https://lu.ma/6gxugtyg 

Master the art of networking and learn how to build meaningful connections that can propel your business forward. This webinar will focus on developing effective networking strategies, maximizing event participation, and leveraging your unique strengths to create valuable partnerships.
Date: Tuesday, September 16, 2025
Time: 9 – 10:30 AM PT | 12 – 1:30 PM ET
More information & registration: https://lu.ma/5rei9qq2 

Discover the diverse network of support organizations dedicated to empowering equity-seeking entrepreneurs. This webinar will provide an overview of available resources, including funding opportunities, mentorship programs, and community support, to help you navigate the Canadian entrepreneurial landscape.
Date: Tuesday, November 25, 2025
Time: 9 – 10:30 AM PT | 12 – 1:30 PM ET
More information & registration: https://lu.ma/x4gss7r7 

Business Owner’s Toolbox:

Entrepreneurs need the right tools to succeed. The Startup Canada Business Owner’s Toolbox (BOT), powered by Pizza Hut, is this tool. It is a central hub providing over 100 curated resources to help entrepreneurs start, grow, and scale their businesses. It contains 10 modules covering every stage of entrepreneurship—from pre-launch to exit strategy, comprehensive guides, templates, and expert insights. Keep an eye on this business essential as updates are made throughout the year.

Sign-up Now

Presenting Partner

This program and its affiliated events would not be possible without the generous support of Pizza Hut Canada.