Startup Global National Pitch Competition: Halifax, Nova Scotia

By Teri-Lyn O'Hara  |  

Monday, May 4, 2026

On April 29, 2026, Startup Canada brought the Startup Global National Pitch Competition to Halifax, Nova Scotia, shining a spotlight on Atlantic Canada’s most promising early-stage entrepreneurs with global ambitions.

Hosted at The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, more than 40 founders pitched behind closed doors to a panel of judges, and only the top five advanced to pitch live in front of the audience. Each finalist had just three minutes to showcase their business, explain their global potential, and make the case for why they should move forward to the national stage.

After an inspiring round of pitches, Grand Prize Winner: Nicholas LaValle, Clean Valley Bio-filtration Technologies CIC was awarded the top prize of $8,500 and a spot at the 2026 Startup Global National Grand Finale, where they will have the opportunity to compete for a cash prize of $30,000!

The People’s Choice Award, decided by audience votes, went to Mia Makhlouf of Alaagi Inc., taking home $1,000 for their business.

About the Winners

Nicholas LaValle, Clean Valley Bio-filtration Technologies CIC

Clean Valley, aims to transform Canadian innovation with nature-inspired solutions for the aquaculture industry. Their team of skilled entrepreneurs, engineers, and environmental scientists specialize in delivering creative, nature-based strategies.

They focus on sustainability and efficiency, harnessing technology to propel businesses toward a more sustainable future.

Mia Makhlouf, Product Development Lead,  Alaagi Inc.

Alaagi is committed to sustainability and innovation that drives us to create a cleaner future. They go beyond creating sustainable products, by developing bioplastics from seaweed and marine resources, to reduce the reliance on traditional plastics. This helps to combat pollution and conserve ecosystems. This innovative approach not only lowers our carbon footprint but also fosters a circular economy.

Top Five Finalists

Joining them in the Top Five were:

These top five finalists delivered their three-minute pitches to a live audience and an expert panel of judges, including:

  • Paul Gaspar, Director of Small Business, UPS
  • Jayne Akinyi, CEO & Founder, Dada Dunia INC.
  • Dan Oshodin, Chief Operating Officer, Tribe

Event Recap

The Halifax event reflected the strength of Atlantic Canada’s startup ecosystem. Founders, ecosystem leaders, and supporters came together for a day of networking, mentorship, and celebration of entrepreneurship.

With this win, Nicholas LaValle will now join other regional champions from across Canada to compete at the 2026 Startup Global National Grand Finale, taking place in Mississauga, Ontario, on October 29, for a prize of $30,000!

Partners & Supporters

This pitch competition was part of the Startup Global 2026 program, a nationwide initiative that equips Canadian entrepreneurs with the tools, resources, and support to enter global markets.

The Startup Global program is proudly presented by UPS and Export Development Canada.,our Ecosystem Partners Forum for International Trade Training (FITT), Air Canada, Riipen, and our Community Partners Communitech, GS1 Canada, and WeBC.

About Startup Canada

Startup Canada is the gateway to Canada’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Since our inception in 2012, Startup Canada has grown to support more than 130,000 entrepreneurs annually. Through our flagship and digital programs, we provide guidance, eliminate barriers, and champion the needs of each and every entrepreneur. For more information, visit startupcan.ca.