Are you an entrepreneur seeking investors for your startup’s next round of financing? Or a VC scouting for top startups to invest in? Perhaps you’re an industry player eager to learn about the latest trends and disruptive innovations.
There are a number of great Canadian and US startup events that attract a diverse crowd, including entrepreneurs, investors, mentors, industry experts, and potential customers. These gatherings are perfect for networking, forming business partnerships, establishing investor relations, and gaining mentorship. They offer a platform to showcase your tech startup, attracting new customers, building brand awareness, and gaining media coverage. Plus, they provide valuable insights into industry trends and best practices. Perhaps the real question isn’t if you should attend these events, but which ones to prioritize.
Entrepreneurship is exciting and challenging, but it can also be lonely. Every entrepreneur needs like-minded sparring partners for support and advice. This is crucial for startup founders.
That’s why we’ve compiled a list of Canadian and US startup events worth attending for any tech startup.
Stay tuned for updates as we get closer to 2025!
| Date | Event | Month | Location | Website |
| April 9-10, 2024 | Venture Summit West | APRIL | Silicon Valley, California 🇺🇸 | Website |
| April 25, 2024 | TechCrunch Early Stage | APRIL | Boston, Massachusetts 🇺🇸 | Website |
| April 29-30, 2024 | Startup Grind Global Conference | APRIL | Silicon Valley, California 🇺🇸 | Website |
| September 4, 2024 | CPO Summit | SEPTEMBER | San Francisco, California 🇺🇸 | Website |
| September 4-5, 2024 | New York Venture Summit | SEPTEMBER | New York, New York 🇺🇸 | Website |
| September 10-12, 2024 | SaaStr | SEPTEMBER | San Francisco, California 🇺🇸 | Website |
| October 28-30, 2024 | TechCrunch Disrupt | OCTOBER | San Francisco, California 🇺🇸 | Website |
| January 7, 2025 | CES | JANUARY | Las Vegas, Nevada 🇺🇸 | Website |
| March 7-15, 2025 | SXSW | MARCH | Austin, Texas 🇺🇸 | Website |
| May 27-30, 2025 | Web Summit Vancouver | MAY | Vancouver, British Columbia 🇨🇦 | Website |
Venture Summit West
Another US event specifically tailored for (tech) startups is Venture Summit West. This annual event takes place in April and brings you to the heart of tech and innovation: Silicon Valley!
Selected startups are provided with an opportunity to pitch their idea to VCs, corporate VCs, angel investors, industry executives, decision-makers, press, and corporate development officers, thus boosting brand awareness and securing the next round of funding. But even though this US startup event has “where innovation meets capital” as their slogan, Venture Summit West is not only about fundraising.
More than anything, Venture Summit West lets you learn from leading investors, successful tech professionals, and leading business development executives. The conference program is crammed with workshops and panels that allow you to learn from the best, providing impart valuable insight into the do’s and don’ts of scaling your business.
The Venture Summit West will help you get noticed by the right people and drive brand awareness at an accelerated rate.
Where: Silicon Valley, California
When: April 9-10, 2024
More info: https://youngstartup.com/events/vsw24
TechCrunch Early Stage
TechCrunch Early Stage is a premier event designed specifically for early-stage startup entrepreneurs. This US startup event, organized by the likely most legendary startup-focused publication of all times, offers an unparalleled opportunity to accelerate your tech venture. It takes place in Boston in the Spring.
TechCrunch Early Stage is tailored to address the unique challenges faced by emerging startups and equips founders with the tools and knowledge necessary for success. At TechCrunch Early Stage, you can participate in interactive workshops and sessions led by industry experts, covering crucial topics such as fundraising strategies, effective pitching, growth marketing, and product development. These educational sessions are designed to provide actionable insights and practical skills that can be immediately applied to their startups.
The event also offers significant networking opportunities, allowing entrepreneurs to connect with fellow founders, investors, and industry leaders. This interaction can lead to potential partnerships, investments, and mentorship, providing a solid foundation for future growth. Additionally, pitch-off competitions give startups the chance to present their ideas to a panel of judges, gaining valuable feedback and exposure.
Let’s just put it this way, TechCrunch Early Stage is an essential event for early-stage tech startup entrepreneurs looking to gain knowledge, build connections, and propel their businesses forward. By bringing together a vibrant community of innovators and providing access to expert advice and resources, TechCrunch Early Stage serves as a critical launchpad for the next generation of tech leaders.
Where: Boston, Massachusetts
When: April 25, 2024
More info: https://techcrunch.com/events/tc-early-stage-2024/
Startup Grind Global Conference
Startup Grind isn’t just a US Startup Event. The organization considers itself the leading global startup community. In 2010, a group of friends and fellow entrepreneurs got together to figure out how to overcome the challenges of growth fort heir tech startups. They realized these challenges were extensive and far stretching, which caused them to create a vibrant organization that consists of many vibrant Startup Grind communities known as “Chapters”.
Startup Grind organizes a wide range of events all over the world, from Dubai (Arab Emirates) to Guayaquil (Ecuador). However, their biggest annual event, an amazing US startup event, takes place in Silicon Valley: The Startup Grind Global Conference.
The 2024 edition welcomed keynote speakers such as Garry Tan (Y Combinator), Howie Liu (Airtable), Aileen Lee (Cowboy Ventures), Jack Altman (Alt Capital), Wade Foster (Zapier) and Emily Chang (Bloomberg Originals).
Whether you’re at the ideation stage or scaling your startup, this conference offers invaluable insights, practical strategies, and the inspiration you need to take your business to the next level. Join like minded entrepreneurs for a few days of high-energy sessions, interactive events, and innovative showcases. Get ready to expand your horizons and make connections that could redefine your startup’s future. Welcome to the Startup Grind Global Conference—where your next big breakthrough begins!
Where: Silicon Valley, California
When: April 29-30, 2024
More info: https://startupgrind.tech/conference/
CPO Summit (San Francisco & New York)
As a tech startup entrepreneur, you are not only CEO, you are also the chief product officer (CPO). The annual CPO summit is tailored specifically for Chief Product Officers, product leaders, and innovators like you who are shaping the future of technology.
The CPO summit allows you to mingle with big names such as Amazon, Google, American Express, Samsung, Uber and so forth. You’ll be invited to immerse yourself in a series of high-impact sessions designed to ignite your product strategy and growth. The event features a lineup of influential speakers from leading tech companies. Previous editions welcomed some amazing tech pioneers on stage: Yasmin Kothari (Bumble), Cristophe Frenet (Botify), Julia Kastner (Neuroflow) and Sanket Karuri (Beam) to name a few.
Apart from these keynote presentations on emerging trends to interactive workshops on product management techniques, the agenda is packed with opportunities to learn from the best in the business.
CPO Summit is held in San Francisco in September, with another edition in New York in March. Got both coasts covered! And even Amsterdam and London, if you fancy.
Of course, CPO Summit also offers many opportunities to upgrade your professional network. You might find new clients, form a powerful relationship, find someone to hire or even find a mentor.
Attend (one of) the CPO Summit to gain cutting-edge knowledge, refine your product strategies, and set the stage for your startup’s next big breakthrough. Don’t miss out on this transformative experience where innovation meets opportunity.
Where: San Francisco, California
When: September 4, 2024
and
Where: New York, New York
When: March 19, 2025
More info: https://chiefproductofficersummit.com/
New York Venture Summit
Can’t make it to Silicon Valley in time for the Venture Summit West? Then it’s ok to be sad, but there’s no need to panic. Just visit the East coast edition of this US Startup Event instead, which is held in New York every fall.
This year the program has sessions on raising seed money, VCs sharing their insights into the evolving medtech landscape, dives into the latest AI developments and much, much more.
Of course, like its West Coast counterpart, the New York Venture capital invites a select group of 100 top innovators to pitch their company to a room full of venture capitalists, corporate investors, private investors, investment bankers and strategic partners. This opportunity to pitch your business might turn out to be a pivotal moment in the development of your company, making the New York Venture Summit another must-attend US Startup Event for any entrepreneur that is serious about growing their business.
Where: New York, New York
When: September 4-5, 2024
More info: https://youngstartup.com/events/nyvs24/
SaaStr
Is your tech startup a SaaS company? Then SaaStr is your kind of US startup event! SaaStr is considered as the world’s largest community of SaaS (Software as a Service) founders, executives, and entrepreneurs, making it a pivotal event for tech startup entrepreneurs in the SaaS domain.
Held annually in the San Francisco Bay Area, SaaStr brings together over 13,000 SaaS professionals from around the globe to share insights, network, and foster growth in the industry. The 2024 edition takes place September 10th-12th
One of the key highlights of SaaStr is its focus on networking and mentorship. The event facilitates numerous opportunities for entrepreneurs to connect with potential investors, partners, and mentors through structured networking sessions and informal gatherings. These interactions can lead to valuable partnerships, investment opportunities, and long-term business relationships.
Additionally, SaaStr’s hands-on sessions and real-world case studies offer practical advice and strategies that startups can implement immediately to drive growth and success. Whether you are looking to refine your business model, scale your operations, or simply gain inspiration, SaaStr provides the resources and connections to help your SaaS startup thrive.
The 3 day event hosts 2,000+ networking sessions, attracts 1000+ investors and venture capitalists. Furthermore, this US startup event welcomes 300+ speakers from the world’s leading SaaS companies and boasts 150+ deep-dives, workshops and classes.
For tech startup entrepreneurs, SaaStr offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn from the best in the business.
Where: San Francisco, California
When: September 10-12, 2024
More info: https://www.saastrannual2024.com/
TechCrunch Disrupt
TechCrunch Early Stage is not the only event organized by TechCrunch. Their other event TechCrunch Disrupt, which takes place in San Francisco in October, is considered their flagship event. Bringing together the best and brightest in the startup ecosystem, TechCrunch Disrupt is one of the most significant US startup events, and one you really cannot miss!
TechCrunch Disrupt is a US startup event that is loved for its vibrant blend of innovation, education, and networking, providing an ideal platform for startups to launch and grow their businesses.
At TechCrunch Disrupt, entrepreneurs have the opportunity to showcase their groundbreaking ideas and products to a global audience of investors, industry leaders, and media. The event’s Startup Battlefield competition is a highlight, where selected startups pitch their ventures to a panel of expert judges, vying for significant prizes and unparalleled exposure. This high-stakes competition has been the launchpad for many successful companies, offering invaluable visibility and credibility.
In addition to the competition, TechCrunch Disrupt features a robust agenda of keynotes, panel discussions, and workshops led by thought leaders and industry veterans. These sessions cover a wide array of topics, from emerging technologies and market trends to growth strategies and fundraising tips, equipping entrepreneurs with the insights needed to navigate the startup landscape.
Networking is a core component of TechCrunch Disrupt, with numerous opportunities to connect with peers, mentors, and potential investors. Whether you’re looking to raise capital, find strategic partners, or gain expert advice, TechCrunch Disrupt provides the resources and connections to accelerate your startup’s success.
Still wondering why you should attend? Check out this video:
Where: San Francisco, California
When: October 28-30, 2024
More info: https://techcrunch.com/events/tc-disrupt-2024/
CES
Yeah, Vegas, baby! Every year, the Consumer Technology Association organizes the CES in Las Vegas. With a history spanning over 50 years, CES has established itself as the launchpad for breakthrough technologies and groundbreaking products that shape the future of the industry, making it one of the must-attend US startup events in consumer tech!
At CES, startups have the unique opportunity to present their innovations to a diverse audience, including media representatives, investors, potential partners, and tech enthusiasts from around the world. The event features extensive exhibition space where startups can demonstrate their products, engage in live demos, and interact directly with attendees. This exposure can significantly boost a startup’s visibility and credibility, often leading to invaluable media coverage and business opportunities.
CES also hosts a comprehensive conference program. Attendees can benefit from keynotes and panel discussions led by industry experts, providing insights into emerging trends, market dynamics, and the latest technological advancements. These sessions are designed to equip entrepreneurs with the knowledge and strategies needed to navigate the rapidly evolving tech landscape.
And of course, CES offers numerous informal events and gatherings tailored to foster connections between tech startup entrepreneurs, investors, clients and business leaders.
CES is more than just an event; it is a catalyst for growth.
Where: Las Vegas, Nevada
When: January 7, 2025
More info: https://www.ces.tech/
SXSW (South by Southwest)
Held in Austin, Texas, SXSW is not your typical startup event. It’s a festival, with film, interactive media, music festivals and conferences. One of the most legendary US startup events.
For tech startup entrepreneurs, SXSW Interactive is a particularly invaluable component, offering a unique convergence of the brightest minds in technology, startups, and innovation. This vibrant event is renowned for its dynamic blend of cutting-edge technologies, thought-provoking discussions, and unparalleled networking opportunities, making it a must-attend for anyone looking to make a mark in the tech industry.
SXSW provides a platform to showcase new products, engage with potential investors, and learn from industry leaders through a variety of keynotes, panels, and workshops. And of course, the festival atmosphere fosters spontaneous networking and collaboration, allowing entrepreneurs to connect with like-minded peers and mentors. Whether you’re looking to launch your startup, gain insights from tech pioneers, or simply be inspired by the next wave of technological advancements, SXSW offers the perfect ecosystem to accelerate your entrepreneurial journey.
Where: Austin, Texas
When: March 7-15, 2025
More info: https://www.sxsw.com/
Web Summit (ex Collision)
Huh? Why would an article titled “The definitive guide to startup events in the US & Canada“ write something about Web Summit? After all, Web Summit is originally held in Lisbon, Portugal. That is hardly a startup event in the US or Canada.
Well, let us explain: up until 2024 (Canada) was home to a well-known startup event called Collision. But the 2024 edition of Collision, held in Toronto, is the last time the event was organized under that name. From 2025 Web Summit Vancouver will be the place to be for all tech startup entrepreneurs with growth ambitions.
Just like its European counterpart, the Web Summit in Vancouver is a premier technology conference that tech startup entrepreneurs cannot afford to miss. After all, despite 2025 being the first edition of this “new and improved” startup event in Canada, the organization has a pretty good track record. Just look at the amazing reputation the Lisbon Web Summit Conference has.
Politico called it “the world’s premier tech conference” (Politico), while the Atlantic even refers to Web Summit as the place “where the future goes to be born”. The New York Times even declared this startup event as “a grand conclave of the tech industry’s high priests.”
With such an outstanding reputation it is obvious that we can expect the Web Summit Vancouver startup event to be nothing less than an absolute winner.
Expect a dynamic event gathering a crowd of innovators, entrepreneurs, investors, industry leaders, and media, fostering an environment ripe for networking, learning, and growth. Web Summit has been called “Glastonbury for Geeks” by the Guardian, and has been called the world’s largest tech conference (Financial Times) and even the “best technology conference on the planet” (Inc.). With a reputation like that, you can expect Web Summit to be an amazing opportunity to showcase your tech startup, and to meet investors and partners. The program is packed with keynotes, panels and workshops led by industry experts. Earlier editions of Web Summit welcomed speakers such as Sam Altman (Open AI), Ursula von der Leyen (President of the European Commission), HM Queen Rania al Abdullah of Jordan (yes, the Queen of Jordan), Stephen Hawking and Elon Musk. Will the Vancouver edition live up to the brand’s reputation?
A key highlight of Web Summit is its dedicated startup program, which includes pitch competitions, mentor hours, and investor meetings. This program gives startups the opportunity to present their ideas, gain critical feedback, and compete for visibility and funding. The exposure and connections made here can significantly boost your startup’s trajectory.
Where: Vancouver, British Columbia
When: May 27-30, 2025
More info: https://vancouver.websummit.com/
Take your pick, or visit them all!
As you can see, our Canadian and US startup events guide is filled with opportunities to take your tech startup to the next level. Whether you visit one of these US startup events, a few of them, or every single one, we are convinced that each and every one is definitely worth your while.
Did we miss any good ones? Let us know!
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