Growth Hacking Toronto

Growth Decoded: Winning Customers in 2026 | Panel Discussion & Mixer

In 2026 you need to do more than build and hope they will come - you need a repeatable growth engine. Join Startup Grind Toronto at The Village Hive, Yonge and Eglinton for a deep-dive into the playbooks driving customer acquisition today. What we’ll cover: What’s actually delivering ROI right now. Tactical growth for startups without a VC-sized budget. Turning cold leads into loyal users. The Agenda: 6:00 PM: Doors Open & Pre-Panel Networking 7:00 PM: Expert Panel & Audience Q&A 7:45 PM: The Mixer (Drinks, snacks, and curated networking) Who should attend? Founders, funders and growth operators looking for actionable tactics and high-level connections in the Toronto ecosystem. Join us to fuel your growth. Special Thanks to Our Event Sponsor We are excited to welcome SwiftAds.io as our official event sponsor. SwiftAds is an AI-powered marketing copilot designed specifically for startups and agencies. By automating the heavy lifting of ad creation and campaign optimization, SwiftAds helps founders scale their growth without the overhead of a traditional agency. About Our Venue Partner The Village Hive is a community-driven coworking and event space for founders and startups. With three GTA locations (Markham, North York, and Midtown), they offer memberships, professional offices, and meeting spaces designed to spark collaboration and support business growth at every stage. Agenda --- Moderators Ankur Sethi - Winner Capital (Founder and General Partner) Ankur Sethi is the Founder and General Partner of Winner Capital, a Toronto-based early-stage venture fund backing the next generation of North American consumer technology companies. He has over 17 years of experience as a consumer tech operator, having built and scaled three companies from inception to $100M+ in revenue, with one reaching a valuation above $2B. His investment the… Daria Tilikanova - Winner Capital (Startup Coach and Mentor) Daria Tilikanova is a business and startup coach who helps founders and service-based entrepreneurs build scalable businesses with clear strategy, strong positioning, and predictable revenue systems. Originally from Russia, she founded and sold two education companies before moving to Canada, where she shifted into full-time mentoring for early-stage and growing foun… Host Lydia Emanuel - Startup Grind Toronto (Events Lead) --- Global Partner Carta (http://www.carta.com/launch?utm_campaign=20240423-nam-general-smb-startup_grind_partnership&utm_medium=social&utm_source=startup_grind) Carta helps people manage equity, build businesses, and invest in the companies of tomorrow. Carta Launch is the only free cap table product, helping new founders get started. The company is trusted by more than 40,000 companies, over 7,000 funds and SPVs, and over two million equity holders to manage cap tables, compensation, valuations, liquidity, and more. For more information, visit carta.com. Partners Winner Capital (https://winner.capital) Winner Capital is an early stage to growth stage syndicate fund investing across North America The Village Hive (https://www.thevillagehive.ca/) The Village Hive is a premier coworking and event space designed for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and remote teams who value community over cubicles. Offering a mix of flexible hot desks, private offices, and professional meeting rooms, the Hive provides a high-energy environment that fosters collaboration and growth. --- Startup Grind is a global startup community designed to educate, inspire, and connect entrepreneurs. We host monthly events in more than 600 cities and 125+ countries featuring successful local founders, innovators, educators and investors who share personal stories and lessons learned on the road to building great companies. Our monthly fireside chat interviews, startup mixers and annual conferences provide ample opportunities to connect with amazing startups and the people behind them, tap into a strong support network, form meaningful connections and gain inspiration for the startup journey ahead. For more information visit StartupGrind.com or follow us on twitter @StartupGrind. --- Complete your event RSVP here: https://www.startupgrind.com/events/details/startup-grind-toronto-presents-growth-decoded-winning-customers-in-2026-panel-discussion-amp-mixer/.

Python Toronto's Inaugural 2026 meetup: Feb 19th at The Adaptavist Group

Python Toronto is back! Join us for our first meetup of 2026 in [The Adaptavist Group](https://www.adaptavist.com/) office at **43 Front St. East** on **Thursday Feb, 19th** at **5:30pm**! If you are interested in giving a talk, we'd love to have you! Please fill out this form - [Submit a Python Toronto talk](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfpNKB0Sbs893xp72M4TxmYGrTyLm4Nh1SSXnCqChP9mx6_9A/viewform?usp=header)! Talks are typically short - typically 5 to 10 minutes, and up to 20 minutes if you've really got something say - and on any topic that would be interesting to a room of Python people - this can be a Python library that has helped you, a research paper you've enjoyed, or an interesting application of AI. The Python meetup is a casual, community oriented meetup hosted by companies that use Python in Toronto. Talks are short, informal, and sometimes ad-hoc. Space is limited! Register now to hold your spot! When/Where * **When:** Feb 19th, 5:30pm – 9pm. Doors open at 5:30, talks start around 6. * Come early to enjoy **snacks** and **drinks** provided. * **Address**: [The Adaptavist Group](https://www.adaptavist.com/) \- 43 Front St\. East\, Toronto\, ON\. For more information about our venue sponsor, [The Adaptavist Group](https://www.adaptavist.com/) , please check out their company website - [https://www.theadaptavistgroup.com](https://www.theadaptavistgroup.com) **Code of Conduct** Python Toronto is dedicated to providing a welcoming, harassment-free experience for everyone, regardless of gender, gender identity and expression, age, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, ethnicity, religion (or lack thereof), or technology choices. We do not tolerate harassment of any form. Sexual language and imagery is not appropriate for this venue, including talks, workshops, parties, Twitter and other online media. Meetup participants violating these rules may be sanctioned or expelled from the meetup (without a refund where applicable) at the discretion of the meetup organizers. Please email elaine@eswong.ca to report any issues.

Meetup Event: Business Builders & Job Seekers — Coffee + Clarity Session

I get a lot of messages from people who want to connect for different reasons—partnerships, potential investment, help building a leveraged business model, or job opportunities. This meet-up is a casual but **structured** way to meet in person, quickly understand what you’re working on, and determine clear next steps. ### **📍 Location** **Second Cup** 4841 Yonge St · North York, ON ### **🕓 Time** **Tuesday, February 18** **4:00 PM – 5:30 PM** *** ## **💵 Attendance Fee (Important)** * **Free for job seekers only** (if your primary purpose is employment). * **$10 for business-related attendance**, including: * business model feedback / guidance * partnership discussions * investment-related conversations * strategic support / “how do I move forward?” planning *If you’re coming for both job + business advice, it’s considered business-related and the $10 applies.* *** ## **✅ RSVP (Required)** Please RSVP so I can plan seating and manage time fairly for everyone. *** ## **What this meet-up is (and isn’t)** **This is an intro + screening session** designed to: * meet you briefly * clarify your direction * identify fit * suggest the next best step **This is not** a full consulting session, a guaranteed job interview, or a promise of investment/partnership. Those decisions happen after follow-up, if there’s a fit. *** ## **Format / Timeboxing** To keep it fair, conversations will be **timeboxed (approximately 5–10 minutes per person)** depending on turnout. *** ## **What to bring (typed + prepared)** ### **If you want help with a business model** Bring a **typed 1-page plan** (rough is fine) including: * what the business does * who the customer is * how it makes money * what you’ve done so far * what you need help with right now ### **If you’re looking for a job** Bring **two printed copies** of your resume. ### **If you want to partner with me** Bring a **typed outline** including: * your concept (clear + simple) * **your responsibilities** (what you will personally do each week) * **your expectation of my responsibilities** * what success looks like (timeline + goals) ### **If you’re seeking investment (or want to discuss it)** Bring a **typed summary** including: * what traction you have (sales/users/LOIs/partnerships—anything real) * how much capital you’re seeking * exactly how the funds would be used * why you’re the person/team to execute *** If this sounds like you, join me at **Second Cup on Feb 18 from 4:00–5:30 PM**.

Black Grapes - Celebrating Black Voices in Wine

(BONUS SESSION) The Coach's Money Mindset Reset

**Click the link below to reserve your spot:** **[https://energeticmagic.thrivecart.com/mindset-reset/](https://energeticmagic.thrivecart.com/mindset-reset/)** Why Your Brain Is Chemically Rewarding You For Staying Stuck Below Your True Earning Potential Most coaches hitting the almost-six-figure ceiling aren't struggling with their marketing or offer. They're trapped by something far more powerful - a deep-seated reality addiction around money and success. You've built a solid coaching business. You have testimonials that prove your value. Your clients get real results. Yet somehow, consistent $10K+ months remain frustratingly out of reach. Every time you get close to breaking through, something happens: * You discount your rates when a potential client hesitates * You overdeliver to justify your prices * You feel a nagging discomfort when thinking about charging more * You work harder instead of leveraging what's already working The problem isn't your coaching ability. It's the unconscious stories you believe about wealth that create unnecessary friction in your business growth. What "Reality Addiction" Is Costing You Reality addiction is the unconscious belief that your current financial ceiling is "just how things are" for coaches like you. It's the voice that whispers: *"Making more means working more."* *"If I charge premium rates, I'll price out the people who need me."* *"Successful coaches are just better at selling than I am."* These limiting beliefs aren't just in your head — they're actively sabotaging your business decisions, creating a cycle where: * You undercharge for your services * You overwork to compensate * You feel resentful about the imbalance * You burn out before reaching your goals I know because I was stuck in the same cycle. Making $8K months but unable to break through to consistent five-figure months until I addressed my reality addiction around wealth and success. What You'll Discover in This Free Workshop Once you join you'll feel the tension in your chest release as you finally understand why making money has felt so difficult. During our 60-minute session, you'll experience: \- The exact moment you recognize the invisible reality addiction that's been holding your income back—and feel immediate relief knowing it's not your fault \- A profound shift as you see other successful coaches breaking through the same blocks that have kept you stuck \- The liberating feeling of having a clear path forward instead of pushing that boulder uphill every day \- The quiet confidence that comes from knowing exactly which stories to release so you can finally command premium rates without the guilt When you apply the framework I'll share, you'll wake up feeling excited about your business again instead of exhausted by it.  “For the first time in my life, I felt valued and loved. This work changed everything.” \- Lynn D Security Coach  “He worked on my fear of success, which was blocking me from getting more clients. I felt a huge sense of relief the very next day and started getting inquiries about my services.” \- Nisreen M Reiki Master/Teacher Ready to Break Free From Your Reality Addiction? P.S. I'm including 2 bonuses valued over $1500 after you register... **Bonus #1** \- You’ll be entered in a draw to attend the next Refuel Your Ambitions \($500 value\)\. This class happens the 1st Friday of each month. You'll be informed when the next date is. This is a 3-hour deep dive unearth and obliterate your limiting beliefs and stories of struggle. 5 people will be selected per workshop. Those are good odds! They're even better if people forget to attend or decide to watch the replay. Make sure that’s not you! **Bonus #2** \- You’ll be entered in a draw to enjoy a 1/2\-hour private session with Shiraz \($1000 value\)\. If I can get results in as little as 5-minutes, imagine how much 30 minutes with me can change your life. 1 person will be selected per workshop.

Feedback | An Open Mic Comedy Show @ Backroom Comedy Club

Ticket Link: **[https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/1974279855193](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/1974279855193)** Welcome to **Feedback \| An Open Mic Comedy Show** at the **Backroom Comedy Club**! Get ready for a night filled with laughter, jokes, and good vibes. Whether you're a seasoned comedian or just looking for a fun night out, this event is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy some live comedy. Come join us on **Sundays** at **10:00 PM** for a hilarious evening that you won't forget. Talented and non-talented lineups of comedians will be taking the stage to entertain you and keep you laughing all night long, and if they fail, owners Ariel Kagan & Brandon Sobel will offer feedback on sets at the request So grab your friends, grab a drink, and get ready to have a great time at the **Backroom Comedy Club**. Don't miss out on this opportunity to experience some of the best or worst comedy in town!

Toronto Founders and Entrepreneurs Networking at 5 Elements Espresso Bar

Join the Toronto Founders Hub every other Saturday at 3:30pm for our regular meetup at 5 Elements Espresso Bar. Sit down with other entrepreneurs to network and discuss business ideas or strategies. \- Broaden your network \- Get critical feedback \- Socialize in low pressure setting I look forward to seeing you!

ROTMAN Author Talk--How to Finish What You Start (Willpower) $20-$30

After just 6 weeks of 2026--are you in need of a refresher on Willpower and Procrastination?? !! I am. Learn how to focus and follow through on what matters... Personal, Work, Social, Health, Arts/Culture. **Ticket link is below**. $20-$30 option We attend 3-4 events each year with our great friends at Rotman/U of T!! ### Description **Agenda:** 5:00 pm - Check-in opens + light refreshments (coffee/tea/cookies) 5:30 pm - Presentation by author + discussion with moderated Q&A 6:30 pm - Meet-and-greet with the author + book signing **Book Synopsis:** Setting goals is easy. Finishing them is the challenge. In ***'Intentional* '--productivity expert Chris Bailey** reveals the surprising truth: **willpower isn’t enough**. The secret to accomplishing your goals lies in **being more intentional.** Bailey distills a decade of deep research on productivity to deliver a profound, practical, and counterintuitive roadmap to getting things done. Forget endless to-do lists and a never-ending workload. To reach your goals, you have to structure your daily actions around what’s most important to you—and let go of the rest. This way, getting things done becomes second nature. Integrating the science of desire, values, and procrastination with the wisdom of Buddhist monks, Bailey empowers us to build a life of true purpose and accomplishment. He offers practical strategies for following through on our goals, including how to: * Structure goals for maximum completion * Make unappealing, boring, or challenging tasks more attractive to tackle * Lower the chance of procrastinating on long-term goals * Create a framework for tracking intentions and progress * Know when a goal isn’t for you—and when it’s time to let it go Finishing what you start is more possible than you think!! **Ticket link here:** $30 Enjoy the Talk + Book + Tea/cookies $20 Enjoy the Talk + Tea/cookies https://www.rotman.utoronto.ca/news-events-and-ideas/public-events/events-listings/2026/february-2026/feb-18-do-chris-bailey/ Either way--arrive by 5pm--and enjoy something hot to drink/snack! Please note: the Rotman Author talks start at exactly 5:30pm--and finish at exactly 630pm.

FREE ONLINE: The SR&ED Grant for Business

This **SR&ED general information webinar** will provide an overview of the program. We will guide you through the eligibility criteria, qualifying expenditures, and the free tools and services offered by the CRA. * Feb 17, 2026, 1 pm to 3 pm ET – English session I would suggest if you own a business and want to receive government funding for your project, thinking of starting a business to learn how you can form your business for maximum benefit, or wish to provide grant writing services to your clients. There is no charge to attend. Registration is required, as space is limited. To register: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/sred-support-services/sred-webinars.html If you are a member of LeaderSHIFT, you will receive a detailed package with samples and a detailed guide at no cost. Click on attend. Some tools to help members: * [Pre-claim consultations](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/sred-support-services/pre-claim-consultation.html?utm_content=2025-05-13_0193&utm_term=SSV) that allow eligible claimants to work with an SR&ED specialist to determine if their project contains SR&ED work before they submit a claim; * The [SR&ED outreach program](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/sred-support-services/sred-outreach.html?utm_content=2025-05-13_0195&utm_term=SSV), which offers targeted sector-specific presentations and one-on-one presentations to businesses, in addition to hosting general information webinars. We also provide accessible digital resources to help businesses determine their eligibility, calculate expenditures and prepare their claim. These tools include: * The [Self-Assessment and Learning Tool](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/self-assessment-learning-tool.html?utm_content=2025-05-13_0197&utm_term=SSV), which helps claimants find out if their work is likely to qualify for SR&ED tax incentives and estimate their potential claim amount in about 30 minutes or less; * The SR&ED Client Portal, available within [My Business Account](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/e-services/digital-services-businesses/business-account.html?utm_content=2025-05-13_0199&utm_term=SSV), which is a secure, one-stop workspace designed to support claimants throughout the claim process. ## Learn about the program * Register for an upcoming [SR&ED webinar](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/sred-support-services/sred-webinars.html?utm_source=Mailbox&utm_medium=External_Email&utm_campaign=No_Signature_Corporate_item+CPB+SRED&utm_content=2024-10-22_0248) on Sept 16, 2025 (English session) * [Contact us](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/contact-sred.html?utm_source=Mailbox&utm_medium=External_Email&utm_campaign=No_Signature_Corporate_item+CPB+SRED&utm_content=2024-10-22_0258) to book a tailored one-on-one outreach session * Refer to our [annual program statistics](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/annual-program-statistics.html) web page for updated 2024 to 2025 program information * Visit our [multimedia gallery](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/multimedia-gallery.html) for infographics, videos, and a podcast feature ## Find out if your work may be eligible * Refer to our eligibility of work [guidelines](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/sred-policies-guidelines/guidelines-eligibility-work-sred-tax-incentives.html) * Use our quick and easy [Self-Assessment and Learning Tool](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/self-assessment-learning-tool.html?utm_source=Mailbox&utm_medium=External_Email&utm_campaign=No_Signature_Corporate_item+CPB+SRED&utm_content=2024-10-22_0254) * Request a [pre-claim consultation](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/sred-support-services/pre-claim-consultation.html?utm_source=Mailbox&utm_medium=External_Email&utm_campaign=No_Signature_Corporate_item+CPB+SRED&utm_content=2024-10-22_0256) for a project that is either in-progress or completed ## Prepare your claim * Follow our [step-by-step guide](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/sred-claim.html?utm_source=Mailbox&utm_medium=External_Email&utm_campaign=No_Signature_Corporate_item+CPB+SRED&utm_content=2024-10-22_0260): how to prepare your claim * Use the [SR&ED Client Portal](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/e-services/cra-login-services.html) within My Business Account to start building your claim * [Contact us](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/contact-sred.html?utm_source=Mailbox&utm_medium=External_Email&utm_campaign=No_Signature_Corporate_item+CPB+SRED&utm_content=2024-10-22_0258) to speak to an SR&ED specialist

MongoDB Meetup: Retrieval-Augmented Generation Skill Badge

💘 **Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) with MongoDB Skill Badge** Fall in love with building smarter AI applications using Retrieval Augmented Generation with MongoDB. In this Valentine-themed session, you will learn how to design RAG applications, use vector search effectively, apply smart chunking strategies, and build an LLM-powered app with LangChain and MongoDB using your own data. 🎓 **Skill Badge** Complete the skill check at the end of the session and earn a Credly Badge to share with your network. **💚 Why Attend** • Learn RAG architecture, chunking strategies, and hands-on implementation • Connect with MongoDB users, engineers, and AI enthusiasts • Free community event with complimentary food **🕠 Agenda** **5:30 PM** Meet & Greet - refreshments **5:45 PM** Talk: [Dev J. Shah](https://www.linkedin.com/in/busycaesar) (SWE @ [TribalScale](https://www.linkedin.com/company/tribalscale)) - RAG with MongoDB: Learn and get a [Credly Skill Badge](https://learn.mongodb.com/courses/rag-with-mongodb) **6:45 PM** Networking and connecting with your peers **7:30 PM** Event ends **⚠️ Important RSVP Notes** • When you arrive, please take the **elevator to the 4th floor, turn left, and follow the signs** • We kindly ask that **you arrive on time** so we can keep the event running smoothly • If you arrive **after 6 PM and the building doors are locked**, please signal the **security guard** at his desk for assistance • You may use a **fully charged laptop or a smartphone** to participate in the session • Please note that this event **will end firmly at 7:30 PM** 💡 Join us for an evening of learning, sharing, and community-building. We look forward to seeing you there! ✅ Thanks to our sponsors **[@MongoDB](https://www.linkedin.com/company/mongodbinc)**, **[@Slalom Consulting](https://www.linkedin.com/company/slalom-consulting),** and **[@Delbridge Solutions](https://www.linkedin.com/company/delbridge-solutions)** 💚 We’d love to hear from the community. **Are you doing something cool with MongoDB you’d like to share?** Message our MUG leaders [@Ian](https://www.linkedin.com/in/iancloves) / [@Leonardo](https://www.linkedin.com/in/leogomesdev) 🌎 Sessions will be presented in English

TORONTO’S LARGEST Ecommerce Networking Event - Entrepreneurs Social Mixer✨🎉

***Tickets must be purchased in advance:*** https://luma.com/ecomTO2602?utm_source=meetup ***(limited early bird & discounted tickets available)*** \-\-\- Step into an atmosphere alive with ecommerce founders, brand builders, and digital entrepreneurs at Oria - one of Toronto’s newest modern, stylish venues with a cool, luxurious vibe perfect for sparking big conversations over drinks. 🍸✨✨ 📸 [Follow us on Instagram @Ecomnetworking](https://instagram.com/ecomnetworking) 📸 Hosted by the **Ecom Network**, this event brings together ecommerce and DTC founders, online sellers, and digital entrepreneurs for a relaxed yet high-energy networking night. Expect great drinks, curated music, and meaningful conversations with people building and scaling real businesses. 💬🎶 **​​Who is this event for?** This event is suitable for all online sellers - whether you run a Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) brand on Shopify, sell on Amazon (FBA), Etsy, eBay, Walmart, or manage a store on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok.​ — **Event Highlights** **✨ Network in a Vibrant Setting** We’ve secured a dedicated section at at the venue just for our group. Enjoy meaningful conversations and great vibes while connecting with fellow entrepreneurs. We kindly ask that you support the venue by purchasing at least one drink or food item. 📣 **Share Your Story** Building a brand, product, or project? Looking for partners, feedback, or fresh ideas? This is your chance to introduce yourself and spark valuable connections in the ecommerce community. 💡 **Learn and Grow** Exchange insights on scaling, marketing, operations, and sales with fellow ecommerce founders. Many past attendees have walked away with partnerships, new clients, and fresh ideas - one conversation could be the start of something big. — **Dress code: Smart/Business casual** — Have questions or suggestions? ​Feel free to reach out to the organizers! ​We can’t wait to see you (again)! — *Notice of Photography* *​During the event, photos and videos may be taken for promotional purposes. By attending, you consent to being photographed and/or filmed. If you prefer not to appear in any media, please let one of the event organizers know.*

Meet 'n Chill for Tech Talk - Beating the Winter Blues

Let's meetup for some casual food and drink. Talk some Tech and Business and meet new contacts. Feel free to share the latest projects you are working on. Or just make some new friends to kick back within this great city.