

Rise Up 2026 Pitch Competition
Celebrate the Rise Up Finale with us in person in Toronto—an evening of connection, community, and powerful storytelling.
Meet and mingle with founders, supporters, and community members, then experience the energy of our live pitch competition as finalists present to a judging panel. The night will culminate in the announcement of our winners, who will receive their share of $50,000 in prizes.
This is more than a finale, it’s a celebration of the women building, growing, and leading in business. Come out to connect, support, and be part of the moment.
Can’t join us in Toronto? The finale is also available virtually so you can tune in and celebrate with us from anywhere.
💻 Virtual livestream registration
Delivered in partnership with:
Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub (WEKH), a national network dedicated to ensure women entrepreneurs, who anchor Canada’s economy, sustainability and resilience, have the supports needed to thrive.
The Diversity Institute, advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion through research, policy development, and innovation across workplaces and communities. Using an ecological systems approach, they help organizations address systemic barriers and create more inclusive environments at the individual, organizational, and societal levels.
With support from:
BDC, the bank for Canadian entrepreneurs. It promotes Canadian entrepreneurship with a focus on small and medium-sized businesses; it works with over 100,000 entrepreneurs across the country.
Loblaw Companies Limited, helping Canadians Live Life Well through accessible food, healthcare, and community-focused initiatives. Through the dedication of its people, Loblaw continues to create meaningful impact while fostering inclusion, opportunity, and support within communities across Canada.
Sephora, championing a world of inspiration and inclusion where everyone can celebrate their beauty authentically. Through a strong focus on diversity, community, and empowerment, Sephora continues to create meaningful impact both within the beauty industry and beyond.
Casa Foundation, empowering women, youth, and emerging leaders through entrepreneurship, mentorship, and capacity-building initiatives. By fostering collaboration, inclusion, and innovation, Casa Foundation helps create pathways to economic opportunity and sustainable community impact.
About the BBPA
Founded in 1983, the BBPA is addressing equity and opportunity for the Black community in business, employment, education and economic development.