FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ottawa, ON — March 9, 2026 — Startup Canada and Pizza Hut are officially firing up the ovens for another year of the Equal Slice Program. Back for 2026, the program is providing $100,000 in grant funding for founders who are ready to pitch, learn, and grow.
This year, the program features two pitch competitions: one in-person event in Toronto in June, and a national virtual competition in November. Regardless of what town, province, or territory you are from, there’s a path for you to compete, and a path to funding that could change the trajectory of your business.
Alongside the competitions, four expert-led webinars will run throughout the year, covering everything from crafting a pitch that actually lands with investors to unlocking grants and non-dilutive capital, scaling from concept to market, and digital growth strategies for startups working lean. All of it free, and all of it built for founders who are seeking resources to drive their businesses forward.
“Canada is full of extraordinary entrepreneurs whose ideas deserve to be heard and funded. Together with Pizza Hut Canada, we’re making that happen. This partnership goes beyond funding; it’s a shared belief that when you invest in impact-driven entrepreneurs, you invest in their economic independence, and the economic growth of this country.”
— Jenn Juby, Interim CEO, Startup Canada]
The Equal Slice Program is part of an ongoing partnership between Startup Canada and Pizza Hut with a commitment to providing meaningful services to our nation’s entrepreneurs. The program pairs funding with mentorship, community, and practical education that helps founders build businesses that last.
For past participants, the program has already delivered real impact.
“Startup Canada and Pizza Hut’s Equal Slice program gave me far more than just a pitch competition win – it gave me an unwavering support network. I received critical financial support at a time when my business needed it most, but more importantly, I gained access to a community and ecosystem that continues to cheer me on. The virtual toolbox and linked resources have become my strategic spyglass, helping me refine my vision and gain a clearer perspective on where I want to take my business next.”
— [Viet Anh Nguyen, Founder/CEO, Rude Mama Hot Sauce], 2025 Equal Slice Program Winner
Applications for the June pitch competition open on [date]. Spots are limited. Entrepreneurs from all industries and backgrounds are encouraged to apply, especially those who have historically faced systemic barriers to funding and support.
To learn more, apply for a pitch competition, or register for an upcoming webinar, visit the Equal Slice Program landing page.
About Startup Canada
Startup Canada is the gateway to Canada’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. We connect entrepreneurs with the support, community, and tools they need to build successful businesses in Canada. Since 2012, Startup Canada has grown to support more than 130,000 entrepreneurs annually and an ever-growing ecosystem support network from coast to coast to coast. Through flagship and digital programs, Startup Canada provides guidance, eliminates barriers, and champions entrepreneurs to private and public-sector partners—helping make Canada the best place to start and build a business. For more information, visit https://www.startupcan.ca/.
Media Contact:
Olivia Jacobs | Senior Manager, Marketing & Communications | [email protected]