Are you a startup founder or do you have a great idea you want to turn into a business? The Desjardins Startup Prize is U of T’s annual business pitch competition, offering over $100K in prizes to recognize, reward, and accelerate the most innovative startups. Ten finalists will be selected to pitch their business idea in the 2026 Desjardins Startup Prize Pitch Competition the first week of March as part of U of T Entrepreneurship Week. The shortlisted individuals or teams will compete by showcasing their startup via a five-minute pitch to a panel of investor judges.

If your startup has at least one founder currently enrolled at the University of Toronto or who is a recent grad, look to the opportunities below for the Desjardins Startup Prize for 2026.

Application Process
Applications for 2026 Desjardins Startup Prize

Applications Open: October 14, 2025

Applications Close: November 24, 2025

Pitch Competition Date: March 5, 2026

Learn more.