Celebrating Ottawa’s Boldest Builders – Bootstrap Awards 2026
The TechTuesday team is pleased to once again host the annual Ottawa Bootstrap Awards, an annual grassroots program that recognizes the achievements of local entrepreneurs who have created successful for-profit or non-profit companies entirely through “bootstrapping” – the process of self-funding the business as opposed to attracting external investment.
For over two decades, these awards have recognized founders who’ve taken the road less traveled — building successful companies without relying on significant outside funding. These are the builders, the risk-takers, and the innovators who prove that grit, creativity, and smart execution can go a long way.
This year’s ceremony, proudly presented by The Ottawa Network and hosted as part of TechTuesday with support from Wesley Clover International, will spotlight outstanding companies and founders from across Eastern Ontario and Western Quebec who are redefining what it means to grow and succeed.
What to Expect:
Celebration of exceptional bootstrapped companies and founders
Inspiring stories of innovation, resilience, and growth
Recognition across categories including Innovation, AI in Action, Marketing, Disruptor, Community Impact, Bootstrap Capital and Founder of the Year
Networking with Ottawa’s vibrant tech and startup community
From breakthrough technologies to meaningful community impact, each award winner represents the very best of what happens when ambition meets determination.
We hope you can join us to celebrate these amazing companies and their achievements.
Agenda:
Networking: 5:00 – 6:00pm
Presentation: 6:00 – 7:00pm
Networking: 7:00 – 8:00pm
If you plan to attend, please register before 5pm on Monday, May 4. The popularity of the TechTuesday event means those who register and do not show up, take a seat away from those who would like to attend. If you wish to register more than one person, please ensure you register each one individually.
Thank you,
The TechTuesday Team