Key facts
- Type
- Competition
- Deadline
- 2/14/2027
In short
Grizzly Pursuit at INNOVATEwest is a pitch competition for startups and scale-ups with innovative technologies, offering a chance to win $20,000 in cash and exposure to top investors.
INNOVATEwest
CompetitionAccepting applications nowApply by 2/14/2027198 days left
$20,000
Grand Prize
Live, in-person pitch
Competition Format
6 finalists
Main Stage Pitchers
Pitch prep session
Finalist Bonus
Exposure to investors
Key Benefit
Overview
Grizzly Pursuit is a premier pitch competition hosted at the INNOVATEwest conference, designed to showcase groundbreaking ideas from startups and scale-ups. Hundreds of companies are expected to apply, with judges selecting the top applicants to pitch live and in-person. The competition culminates in a grand finale where six finalists will present on the main stage in front of thousands of attendees. The challenge focuses on identifying and promoting the latest innovative technologies, encompassing both software and/or hardware solutions. It provides a unique platform for emerging companies to gain significant exposure within the tech world and connect with major investors. The ultimate goal of Grizzly Pursuit is to discover and reward the most promising tech ventures. Beyond the substantial cash prize, finalists also receive valuable mentorship and pitch preparation from industry experts. This opportunity is critical for startups looking to accelerate their growth and secure funding.
What to build
Participants must pitch their groundbreaking ideas for innovative technologies, which can include both software and/or hardware solutions.
Prizes
1st Place
Cash prize
$20,000
Finalists (top 6)
Pitch prep session with pitch coach and storytelling expert Chris Giantsopoulos from MaRS
N/A
Key dates
- Qualifying Stage PitchesTuesday, April 16, 2026
- Finales (Main Stage Pitches)Wednesday, April 17, 2026
Eligibility
Start-ups/scale-ups developing the latest innovative technologies (both software and/or hardware) are eligible to apply.
Sponsors & partners
MaRS